After suffering their first defeat against Notre Dame and falling six spots to No. 7 in the College Football Playoff rankings, Mario Cristobal's Miami team has an opportunity to remind the country who they really are.
Miami still controls its path to the ACC Championship Game, but the loss exposed several weaknesses that must be addressed before the postseason. Against a Duke team that has won three straight games and features one of the nation's best defenses, there are three things Miami fans should want to see.
1. A convincing victory that looks like a playoff contender
Winning is obviously the priority, but Miami fans have every reason to want something more convincing.
The Hurricanes have survived several uncomfortable moments this season, needing double overtime to defeat Florida State 43-35 before escaping North Carolina with a 38-35 victory on Halloween. The response against Duke needs to be definitive. Miami should establish control early, avoid costly turnovers and finish scoring opportunities.
Duke allows just 13 points and 282.1 yards per game, ranking among the nation's best defenses in both categories. The Blue Devils also haven't surrendered a touchdown in 11 consecutive quarters.
A comfortable victory against that defense could also help the Hurricanes in the eyes of the CFP committee.
2. Miami's pass rush needs to make its presence felt
One of Miami's most concerning performances against Notre Dame came from its defensive front.
Despite holding the Fighting Irish to 93 rushing yards, the Hurricanes failed to sack CJ Carr, who completed 29 of 40 passes for 319 yards and three touchdowns. Miami's inability to consistently disrupt opposing quarterbacks is a reason that their pass defense has slipped to 127th nationally.
The Hurricanes need more from Damon Wilson II, Armondo Blount and the rest of their defensive front. Nobody is expecting five sacks, but they need to show a level of improvement that can build momentum going into the postseason.
Saturday also presents a tough rushing matchup. Duke running back Nate Sheppard comes into Saturday with 1,189 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns, while Miami leads the FBS in rushing defense, allowing just 64.3 yards per game.
3. Prove the offense can thrive without Malachi Toney
The Hurricanes eventually found success against Notre Dame without Malachi Toney, but it took nearly an entire half to establish any offensive rhythm.
Cooper Barkate delivered 10 receptions for 92 yards and two touchdowns, while tight end Elija Lofton added seven catches for 113 yards and another score. Both proved capable of handling larger roles, but Miami needs more consistent production throughout the offense, specifically in the run game.
Mark Fletcher Jr. managed 57 yards on 13 carries against Notre Dame, while Miami finished with 101 rushing yards on 28 attempts.
Miami needs its offensive line to establish a more physical presence, and create rushing opportunities for Fletcher and the other running backs.
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