Miami appears to be on the way up and the Seminoles could be on the way down after the seasons the schools had last season. ESPN college football writer Andrea Adelson states that Miami needs a win to build on the momentum of the victory in Tallahassee last season and to help in recruiting.
"“The Hurricanes made strides last season, and one of the biggest happened in Tallahassee, when they broke an agonizing seven-game losing streak to rival Florida State. To keep building on their momentum, it is crucial to get past the Seminoles. A win obviously helps their Coastal Division hopes, but it also gives them valuable bragging rights on the recruiting trail.”"
Stormin in Norman
It basically comes down to tangible versus more figurative reasons to win the game. The game against Virginia Tech could decide a berth in a New Year’s Six Bowl Game in addition to the Coastal Division title.
Blacksburg is never an easy place to play. Adelson also wrote up the synopsis of why the visit from Miami is Virginia Tech’s most important.
"“The Hokies face a difficult opener against Florida State and also get Notre Dame at home, but the game that could end up deciding their ACC championship game fate is against Coastal Division rival Miami at home Nov. 17. The Hurricanes have won three of the past four, but to reassert itself in the division, Virginia Tech has to find a way to win this one.”"
Miami has confidence after winning in Tallahassee last season. The location of this year’s Miami-Florida State game is a big advantage for the Hurricanes. If Florida State can return to being a top 25 team this season, the Rock should have a raucous atmosphere.
The Seminoles needed a blocked extra point to seal the win Miami at Hard Rock Stadium during Mark Richt’s first season in 2016. With Richt leading the program, Miami can re-establish one of the best home-field advantages in college football. That’s especially true when the Hurricanes play night games.
Next: What are Miami Hurricanes 2018 Bowl Projections?
The trip to Blacksburg is more intimidating. The Hokies return 12 starters for 2018. Seven are back on offense and five on defense. That includes quarterback Josh Jackson. Athlon Sports selected Jackson as the quarterback on its preseason All-ACC team.