In search for their first bowl game victory since 2016, the Miami Hurricanes face No. 22 Oklahoma in the 2020 Cheez-It Bowl.
Our 305Sports UM writers gave their takes and predictions on the bowl game.
Anthony Yero, Lead Hurricanes Writer (Season Record: 9-1)
35-27 Oklahoma State: The team that comes out with the most energy will come out victorious. Miami has a past of losing games before the postseason and coming out with no motivation during bowl games. Miami is 1-9 record in their last 10 bowl games, thus, the record speaks for itself. Also, the Hurricanes will be without their best defensive players in Jaelan Phillips and Quincy Roche, which will hold back a defense that gave up 63 points in their last contest. As much as things have changed this season for UM, it’s going to take a complete effort to win.
Michael Yero, Lead Hurricanes Writer (Season Record: 8-2)
28-25 Miami: With a chance of ending their bowl game losing skid, I expect a defensive clash that’ll result in a down to the wire finish. That said, UM should come out on top.
Jose Zarraluqui, Hurricanes Writer (Season Record: 9-1)
34-31 Miami: Oklahoma State will be one of the biggest challenges for this Hurricanes team this year. OSU is a very talented BIG 12 team, that can expose a few of Miami’s weaknesses. Against UNC, Miami’s run defense got exposed through all four quarters. Oklahoma State’s run game is led by Dezmon Jackson, who has had multiple games with over 100 rushing yards. Miami’s defense will need to find a way to limit the run game. Offensively, UM’s offensive line will be the main focus. OSU leads the BIG 12 in tackles for loss per game (8.3). D’Eriq King will need to remain calm in the pocket and make wise decision when he has the ball in his hands.
William Hernandez, Hurricanes Writer (Season Record: 1-1)
38-31 Oklahoma State: Both the ‘Canes and Cowboys are depleted as their most talented players have declared for the 2021 NFL Draft. However, it will be an exciting matchup between Miami’s D’Eriq King and OK State’s Spencer Sanders. I believe both teams are evenly matched and we will be witnessing a shootout at Camping World Stadium. Miami’s notorious for their poor performances in Bowl Game‘s since their last win was back in 2016. Oklahoma State in a close one
