Saturday Spotlight
(17) Miami Hurricanes at (18) Louisville Cardinals
Miami: Since 2017, things have been down for them. When the program is winning games and they’re on top of the world, it’s good for the game of college football. During the off-season, they received a splash. One of the more electrifying players in the country decided to transfer to the legendary institution. Quarterback D’Eriq King made his debut with the Hurricanes last week. He completed 15 of his 23 pass attempts for 141 yards passing. He also added 83 yards rushing. It was a complete victory last week in their opener. The Hurricanes racked up 495 yards of total offense. On defense, they held UAB to 4.7 yards per play and 285 total yards of offense. If they can put everything together consistently, they can win their division. Conference play begins tonight against those Cardinals from Louisville.
Louisville: This is year three of the Scott Satterfield era. Last season, the Louisville Cardinals offense showed some improvement. They were from 239 points in 2018 to 430 last season in 2019. There’s life within that offense. I can’t wait to watch Quarterback Micale Cunningham. When I watched the tape on him, he’s a dual-threat quarterback that can throw it, but his production comes when he runs the football. He brings the same similar type of playmaking that a certain someone who played for Louisville did years ago. I think his name is Lamar or something. As much as he may like running, he has no problem shredding a defense with his arm. The defense needs to improve all over. You can’t give up big plays regularly and expect to win games. They will welcome The U into town tonight for some Saturday night lights.
Miami X-Factor: Cam’Ron Harris– Along with King, the Hurricanes are the third-best rushing offense in the country. He plays with a strong vision and the ability to bounce outside in the lanes. He had a great game last week against UAB rushing for 134 yards and two touchdowns. Look for Miami to establish him early on.
Louisville X-Factor: Monty Montgomery– This Louisville defense has a dog-like mentality. When the veteran linebackers weren’t showing up, it was this guy making plays on the field. Last week against Western Kentucky, he was asked to spy Tyrrell Pigrome. Now, he’ll be asked to do the same with D’Eriq King.
Final Thoughts: We have our first ranked matchup of the young season. I’m finally going to get the chance to sit down and watch these explosive quarterbacks. Miami must unlock King. Let him be the playmaker that he is. Also, Miami needs to force a turnover. They struggled to do so against UAB. For Louisville, it starts with containing King. Send a message early with that quick defense. On offense, get the ball to those wideouts. You have the edge over them in that position.
Prediction: Louisville 35 Miami 31
