[Tommy]

Michael Robinson from Sports Edge previews one of the best rivalries in college football, #12 Miami and #11 Florida State. It is rare for a game of this magnitude to be played on opening weekend, especially in-conference, so sit back and enjoy the 8:00 p.m. EST start on ESPN.

Florida State (+3.5) at Miami

Miami (9-3, 6-2 ACC) had an up and down year in 2005, which included an eight game winning streak, and a 40-3 loss to LSU in the Peach Bowl.

Miami’s defense was far ahead of the offense last year, and that looks to continue for at least this game. Quarterback Kyle Wright and tight end Greg Olsen both return, and are among the best in the country at their positions.

However, Miami running back Tyrone Moss is suspended for this game for disciplinary reasons. Wide receiver, Ryan Moore is also suspended. Miami always has players ready to step in, but this is not a good way to start off the season.

The Miami defense is very solid and led by perhaps the best secondary in the country.

Florida State was 8-5 overall last year and 6-3 in the conference. The Seminoles beat Virginia Tech in the ACC championship game, and lost a close game to Penn State in the Orange Bowl.

The fact that they made it so far with a one-dimensional passing offense is a credit to the coaching staff. Head coach, Bobby Bowden built his offense around freshman quarterback, Drew Weatherford, and he responded with a very good 2005 season.

Weatherford will become more efficient in his second season, but FSU will only meet their goals this year if they run the ball better with Lorenzo Booker and Antone Smith.

Florida State is replacing four NFL first round picks on defense, but they have reloaded and are only about a half a notch below the Miami defense.

Summary and Outlook

The best part of this game is that the stakes are so high, so early in the season. The winner has a great leg up in the conference, while the loser could see their national championship hopes disappear before its eyes.

Florida State has lost its last three games against the Hurricanes in Miami. The last two were a 16-10 loss in 2004, and a 28-27 loss in 2002, when Florida State missed another game winning field goal against the Canes. Last year, Florida State won at home, 10-7 in a game marred by an ugly offensive effort by both teams.

There is sure to be more scoring this year than last, with the Over /Under at 39.5, but that seems a bit high for my taste. This game could easily come down to another field goal as both teams have a great chance to win outright.


Coutesy of http://sportsedge.vip.com/