LSU is the most important game on the Miami Hurricanes schedule for two primary reasons. A victory over LSU would end a three-game losing streak. It would also prove that Miami can compete with a powerhouse program.
In the Miami Hurricanes three losses to Pittsburgh, Clemson and Wisconsin, Miami failed to establish a consistent running game. Against Pittsburgh, Miami could only muster 45 rushing yards.
In the Orange Bowl against Wisconsin, Miami had 115 rushing yards in the first quarter. They finished the game with only 174 rushing yards. For Miami to beat LSU the Hurricanes must establish an effective and consistent attacking attack. If they don’t they could be headed towards a fourth straight loss.
Miami’s Rushing Offense In the Richt Era
From 2016 to 2017, Miami improved in overall rushing yards and yards per rus but slightly declined in rushing Touchdowns. Miami increased their rushing first downs by 11 from 95 to 106.
Transitioning from Brad Kaaya to Malik Rosier certainly helped improve the rushing attack and Miami will have the benefit of a mobile quarterback again in 2018 whether Rosier or N’Kosi Perry line up behind center.
| YEAR | Rush YDS | YPR | Rush TD’s | Rush First Downs |
| 2016 | 1,973 | 4.5 | 24 | 95 |
| 2017 | 2,091 | 5.1 | 19 | 106 |