ACC Huddle predictions suggest a Hurricane will be running through Dallas

The ACC Huddle panel still believes in the Miami Hurricanes. 

All three analysts — Eddie Royal, Eric Mac Lain and Jimbo Fisher picked the Hurricanes to beat SMU on the road today.  Ironically, the show is in Dallas today, broadcasting live on the SMU campus. But despite the partisan crowd behind them, Miami was the pick. 

The oddsmakers seem to agree, Miami is a 8.5-point favorite on FanDuel. This is the first meeting between the Hurricanes and Mustangs since 1965. 

Mac Lain: Hurricanes still among the best in the country

Miami is ranked 10th in the nation and were as high as second a couple of weeks ago, Mac Lain believes the Hurricanes are still as good as anyone that's currently in the mix for the playoffs. He does have some concerns about who will step up for Miami at wide receiver with the injury to CJ Daniels.

Mac Lain also called out Hurricanes quarterback Carson Beck.

"I want and need to see Carson Beck be the superstar I think he can. I want to see him go for over 300 yards and control this game."

Eric Mac Lain

Fisher thinks Miami pulls away with big plays

The former FSU and Texas A&M coach expects a close contest and believes SMU will get off to a fast start. But once the game settles down and Miami can control the pace, things will begin to flip. Like Mac Lain, Fisher believes that the Hurricanes pass game is going to be what separates the teams, with Miami picking on SMU's corners and hitting explosive plays down the field.

"Miami is going to hit those chunk plays down the field because SMU is not going to let them run. They're going to play an eight-man front and stack them. I think the play-action and the big shots over the top with be what does it for Miami."

Jimbo Fisher

Royal: Hurricanes need to show they are the best in the ACC

Royal simply believes this is a statement game for the Hurricanes. He talks about Miami being the best team in the ACC right now, but having yet to win a conference title in the 20-plus years since joining the ACC. In his mind, a win today will set the tone for the future.

"I got Miami making a statement, not only for now but for the future. If they want to take over the ACC this is a big one."

Eddie Royal