Miami Hurricanes defensive keys to stopping Florida Gators
Keeping the Miami defense fresh
Florida wore teams down in 2018. The Gators have proven the ability to be patient and dominate games in the fourth quarter. Florida outscored opponents 218-138 last season. Most of that margin came in the final 15 minutes. The Gators had a 128-60 advantage in the fourth quarter.
Florida was especially impressive in the second half of their final three games of 2018. The Gators outscored South Carolina, Florida State and Michigan 77-22 after halftime to close out their last three games of 2018. Miami has to be ready to close the game strong.
Good luck to @CanesFootball as they begin their season in Orlando!
— Hard Rock Stadium (@HardRockStadium) August 24, 2019
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Florida averaged 5.3 yards per carry in 2018. The Gators ran for 873 yards and 6.23 yards per carry in the fourth. Given a lead, the Gators were able to put games away in 2018. With four new horsemen upfront in 2019 that might be tougher for Florida to continue to wear the opposition down.
Miami Defense vs Florida offense
Do not expect Miami to give up many long pass plays to Florida. Even with Trajan Bandy the only returning starter in the Hurricanes secondary that should remain constant. Manny Diaz and Ephraim Banda return to run the Miami defense and secondary.