The Miami Hurricanes are hitting the field as the heaviest favorite in their rivalry against Florida State in at least 45 years, and probably longer. We’re talking a massive 22.5-point consensus spread, climbing up to 23 points, for their Oct. 17 showdown at Hard Rock Stadium. This isn’t just a big number, it’s a statement, and it paints a pretty clear picture of where both programs are right now.
Miami’s Dominance Meets FSU’s Defensive Woes
Can you even believe that spread? Twenty-three points! This rivalry used to be a heavyweight fight, with both teams ranked in the final poll 25 times since 1980, and 17 of those years they were both closing in the top 10. Now, No. 3 Miami, sitting pretty at 5-0, is looking like they’re about to run FSU (3-3) right out of the building. Why such a monster spread? Look no further than Miami’s offense, which is straight-up the most potent in the entire country. Quarterback Darian Mensah is tearing it up with 1,438 yards, 15 touchdowns, and zero picks, making him a legit Heisman contender. And his main target, wide receiver Malachi Toney? Dude’s got 39 catches, 604 yards, and six touchdowns himself, also grabbing Heisman buzz. On the flip side, Florida State’s defense is an absolute mess, ranked a staggering 121st nationally, with only four Power Four teams worse off than them. That’s a brutal reality check right there.
“It Sucked”: Norvell’s Blunt Assessment and Job Security
The cracks in FSU’s foundation blew wide open after their embarrassing 44-20 loss to Louisville just last Friday night. They were up 14-0, feeling good, and then just completely collapsed, surrendering 35 consecutive points. And get this: they allowed a mind-boggling 397 yards on the ground. That’s the most rushing yards Norvell’s given up and the second-most in program history. Louisville’s Isaac Brown had runs of 97 (a record for them!) and 68 yards, plus Braxton Jennings added a 44-yard scamper. After that disaster, FSU coach Mike Norvell didn’t pull any punches. He literally thumped a press conference table and said the defense “sucked.” He talked about giving up “20 freaking yards of rushing a week ago,” then suddenly “400 yards” this week. He’s right, that’s wild. But here’s the kicker: Norvell’s likely on his way out before the season even ends, and an ugly loss this Saturday could absolutely speed up that decision. You gotta execute in the moment, man.
This record point spread, topping the 21-point spread from two years ago when Miami beat a 1-6 FSU 36-14, tells you everything. The Hurricanes are rolling, FSU is reeling, and Norvell’s job is hanging by a thread. When these two meet on Oct. 17, all eyes will be on whether Miami can cover that massive number, and if FSU’s defense can show *any* sign of life.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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