Miami will likely be favored in every game this season except versus Florida State. Miami being favored at Florida is a mild surprise. The Hurricanes have to win the games they are expected to this season. Too often over the last 20 or more years, Miami has lost games they were expected to win.
Although it is a cliche, Miami has to remain focused every week. Ward and middle linebacker Francisco Mauigoa should keep Miami focused offensively and defensively every week. Miami cannot afford to look past any opponent this year. That has occurred at least once per season over the past 20 years.
PFF’s Top 50 Players in College Football:
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Powell started for Washington during their run to the national championship game last season. Baron played in big games for Tennessee and backup QB Reese Poffenbarger led Albany to the FCS Semifinals. Miami needs to be ready and focused this season to make a run at the ACC Championship and College Football Playoff.
The Florida game will test Miami early. Playing at South Florida in front of what should be a hostile crowd should also help Miami become battle-tested entering ACC play. Miami plays its first 2024 ACC road game at California on October 5. The game in Berkley should be the least hostile on the road for Miami in 2024.
The 2024 season will be a pivotal one for Cristobal. Either Miami wins big or Cristobal will be on a scorching hot seat in 2024. Miami has too much talent to not be at least one of the top 15 teams by the end of the season. Cristobal and Miami have a lot to prove during the 2024 season.