ESPN Gameday analysts nearly pick Miami at Syracuse unanimously
With a berth in the ACC Championship Game on the line, the ESPN College Gameday analysts picked Miami nearly picked Miami unanimously. Lead ESPN College Football analyst Kirk Herbstreit was the sole analyst to pick Syracuse. The game is a matchup of the top two quarterbacks in the ACC.
Syracuse quarterback Kyle McCord leads the ACC averaging 358.7 passing yards per game, while Cam Ward is in second place, averaging 343.1 passing yards per game. Saturday could determine who earns a spot as the All-ACC first-team quarterback at the end of the season.
McCord and Ward both transferred during the 2024 offseason. Syracuse added McCord from Ohio State and Ward transferred to Miami from Washington State. McCord and Ward have been the biggest difference makers in their teams' significant improvements in 2024.
McCord, Ward and the Miami defense were highlighted in the discussion before the game. The potential need for Miami to get up multiple scores was mentioned. As always Howard gave his opinions first.
Desmond Howard- I think that the Miami Hurricanes will beat Syracuse. I think they're locked in. I went to visit with them earlier this week and um I think they're focused.
Nick Saban- I got to go with the Canes as well but they need to get ahead two scores in this game because don't trust the defense man it's hard not to feel good when you're not two up.
Pat McAfee-they've had a for five, six weeks or whatever and Coach Corso would say get two-score lead and hold on I think that's exactly what Miami is going to have to do all those Syracuse spins it often and regularly I've got Miami winning this one.
Celebrity guest picker Dude Perfect- I've got Miami winning this one.
Lee Corso-Miami wins it but watch out for the SC Dome yeah it's closer than the experts thing real close.
Kirk Herbstreit- It is a hostile environment. Miami's quarterback Cam Ward has found a way to bring his team out. He's going to be tested today quarterback duel. (Syracuse QB) Kyle McCord outduels Cam. Syracuse at home wins. Which means. Clemson if that happens would go to the ACC Championship to play SMU.