The Florida State Seminoles are heading into South Florida as heavy underdogs to face the undefeated, sixth-ranked Miami Hurricanes (7-0, 3-0) tonight at Hard Rock Stadium. With a 7 p.m. kickoff, the game will be broadcast live on ESPN, promising an intense rivalry showdown.
Florida State’s season hasn’t gone as planned, currently holding a 1-6 record (1-5 in ACC play). Despite the challenges, FSU has managed to win the last three matchups against Miami, including a resounding 45-3 victory during their previous visit to Hard Rock. The Hurricanes, however, are looking to avenge that loss, and head coach Mario Cristobal is determined to make a statement in front of pollsters and fans while also boosting his Heisman-contending quarterback, Cam Ward.
While the Seminoles have struggled, they haven’t lost any game this season by more than two scores. Miami, despite its spotless record, has narrowly escaped its last three matchups, winning by only a combined 12 points. The Hurricanes’ top-ranked offense has averaged significant points per game but has shown vulnerability on defense, surrendering 117 points in just those last three outings.
FSU’s Offensive and Defensive Challenges
Florida State’s offense has faced consistent struggles this season, ranking near the bottom nationally—129th in total offense, 127th in scoring, 131st in rushing, and 83rd in passing. While the passing game shows promise, the ground game has been less effective. On defense, the Seminoles are mid-ranked at 63rd overall, with standout areas like pass defense (32nd) and red-zone defense (19th). Although they’re 33rd nationally in sacks per game, turnover margin and penalties have been problematic, ranking 126th and 88th, respectively
FSU kicker Ryan Fitzgerald has been a standout performer, currently the only kicker in the country with four successful field goals from beyond 52 yards, and he remains perfect on field goals this season. The Seminoles’ special teams unit has been a bright spot, blocking five kicks this year (four field goals and one punt), leading the nation in net punting with an impressive 46.34-yard average. Alex Mastromanno’s punting has contributed significantly, topping the country in both 50+ yard punts and overall average.
Adding to FSU’s special teams prowess, Samuel Singleton Jr. continues the Seminoles’ streak of kickoff return touchdowns with a 95-yarder earlier this season. The Seminoles have led the ACC in kickoff return averages and sit in the top 20 nationally.
Florida State’s defense has also shown sparks of excellence, holding Duke to only 70 passing yards while registering eight pass breakups and limiting them to 180 total yards. With seven sacks in their recent win over Cal, the Seminoles are proving they can bring pressure and disrupt offensive rhythm.
Historically, this rivalry game has often taken unexpected turns. Despite Miami’s current three-touchdown favorite status and dominant season, Florida State’s defense and special teams could keep them competitive. Head coach Mike Norvell and his squad will look to capitalize on any Miami missteps, hoping to disrupt the Hurricanes’ undefeated streak and spark momentum within their own season.
With Florida State entering the game as 20.5-point underdogs according to FanDuel, and the over/under set at 54.5, tonight’s game has all the makings of a potential surprise in one of college football’s classic rivalries.
How to Watch
Matchup:Florida State Seminoles vs. Miami Hurricanes
Date: Saturday, October 26
Time:7:00 p.m. ET
Venue: Hard Rock Stadium
TV: ESPN
Spread: Miami -20.5
Over/Under:54.5
Stay tuned with Tomahawk Nation for live updates and in-depth coverage throughout the game. Florida State fans, let’s see if the Seminoles can defy the odds and keep this rivalry’s unpredictable spirit alive!
