Ball State at Miami features two top 10 third down offenses
Ball State is third nationally on third down after converting 12 of 19 for 63.16 percent in their season opener versus Missouri State last week. Miami is sixth nationally converting 13 of 22 for 59.09 percent on third down combined in wins over Florida and Florida A&M to start 2-0.
Ball State quarterback Kadin Semonza completed 10 passes in 12 attempts for 121 yards with six first downs, four completions for 15 or more yards and one of 25 or more. Semonza also ran three times for 23 yards and a TD on third down. As a team Ball State had seven carries for 67 yards and five first downs versus Missouri State.
Ball State will face a stout Miami defense on third down. Miami has allowed opponents to convert only four of 22 third-down attempts this season which is seventh nationally at 18.18 percent. Florida was one for nine on third down and Florida A&M was three for 13.
Florida starting quarterback Graham Mertz was 3-5 for 10 yards with no first downs on third down versus Miami. D.J. Lagway relieved Mertz, who left the game with a concussion and was incomplete on his only third down attempt with 12 yards to go.
Cam Ward has been exceptional for Miami in 2024, especially on third down. Ward has completed 11 passes in 13 attempts for 214 yards, two touchdowns, no interceptions with eight first downs, seven completions of 15 or more and five of 25 or more yards. Ward has also run twice for five yards with one first down on third down.
Miami defensive line should dominate Ball State. Miami defensive line should dominate Ball State. dark. Next
Semonza and Ward have Ball State and Miami playing exceptional situational football. Ball State ranks a respectable 40th nationally allowing Missouri State to convert three of on 10 third down for 30 percent. Third down appears to be more critical for both defenses, with Ball State and Miami elite on third down this season.