This game could go several ways depending on how polished we are in game 1. That's the question for both teams.
With that said, if our offense is on schedule, I'm expecting a blowout. If Miami gets out to an early double digit lead, that home field advantage will be gone. Gator fans will turn on Napier. There's just too much firepower on our offense. Will they show oit in game 1 is the question?
Florida was one of the worst teams defensively last year. I don't know how that gets fixed for game 1. Sure, they should be better than last year, but how much do they improve for game 1 2024? Florida was 70th against the pass and 79th against the run. I expect improvement, but I don't see that team breaking into the top 20 in either category. I firmly believe Miami will have ample opportunities to score.
In order for this to be a close game, Miami will need to play sloppy getting penalties and turning the ball over.
I believe by the end of the year, Miami has a top 10 offense and a top 20 defense. Its a matter of csn they play at that level in game 1? Miami was 24th in total defense last year. The defense was really good, they were just overshadowed by offensive turnovers and poor QB play.
I'm expecting Cam Ward to make a statement in game 1. He's going to announce himself as one of the best QB's in college football.
My bold prediction: Canes 42 - 17.