Riding the momentum from their impressive blowout victory last week, the No. 10 Miami Hurricanes look to close their regular-season strong versus No. 17 North Carolina
Our 305Sports UM writers gave their takes on what to expect from the ‘Canes at home.
Anthony Yero, Lead Hurricanes Writer (Season Record: 9-0)
35-31 Miami: Both teams have showcased their firepower offenses this season, which leads me to be believe that this game will come down to the wire. And so far this season, there hasn’t been a better ACC team both offensively and defensively in fourth quarters than Miami.
Michael Yero, Lead Hurricanes Writer (Season Record: 8-1)
27-17 Miami: With a chance to seriously make a statement over a ranked team as the season comes to an end, I expect UM to come out strong and effective on both sides of the field, pushing their way into its ninth win of the year.
An impressive win over the Tar Heels not only impresses the College Football Playoff Committee, but avenges a heartbreaking loss from last season and gives Miami confidence as they likely enter a New York Six Bowl Game.
Jose Zarraluqui, Hurricanes Writer (Season Record: 9-0)
48-45 Miami: With Miami facing off against one of its tougher opponents on the season, expect a very up and down game. Miami is a very bipolar team when it comes to its offensive and defensive play. With that said, both the offense and defense need to carry the momentum from the Duke game into UNC.
I expect D’Eriq King, and wide receiver Mike Harley, to get it going for the ‘Canes in the air tonight. On the ground, look out for starting running back Cam’Ron Harris to have a great day. Coming off of a spectacular performance against Duke, I predict he does the same this week.
Defensively, the front seven needs to get up all in Sam Howell’s face. The starting QB for UNC is one of the better quarterbacks in college football, who will probably be trying to take advantage of a particularly weak Miami secondary. I expect this game to have a whole lot of offense, and little defense.
William Hernandez, Hurricanes Writer (Season Record: 1-0)
41-35 Miami: A win over UNC won’t be a simple task for Miami as as they’re facing a Tarheels team that has one of the most explosive offenses in college football. The key for a ‘Canes victory will be to contain North Carolina’s one-two punch in the backfield in Michael Carter and Javonte Williams as they are 0-2 when rushing under 100 yards. Miami’s defense led by Jaelan Phillips will prevail in what should be a shootout versus the Tar Heels.
