The Miami Hurricanes are just hours away from their ESPN College GameDay kick-off against the Florida Gators. An in-state battle that could be season-defining for both teams. Both programs are currently on different trajectories.
The Hurricanes currently sit on a 3-0 record, two victories against ranked teams, and play tremendously on both sides of the field as a team. They also have an emerging Heisman trophy candidate in quarterback Carson Beck.
On the other end, the Gators enter the game with a 1-2 record, with both losses resulting from embarrassing performances. In their week two matchup against the South Florida Bulls, the team faced tons of penalties, which resulted in many yards lost, and a lack of discipline by defensive tackle Brendan Bett after spitting on the Bulls' offensive lineman Cole Skinner.
The following week, Gators quarterback DJ Lagway threw for five interceptions against the Louisiana State Tigers. He faced significant pressure, which resulted in sloppy turnovers. Lagway also struggled converting on third downs, just six of 17.
For the Gators, tonight's game is probably their last hope to get their season back on track. As for the Hurricanes, it gives them a chance to establish themselves as contenders.
In a recent interview on "The Pat McAfee Show", college football icon Nick Saban gave his praises and thoughts about the exciting Miami squad.
"I think they are a good team top to bottom," he said. "Last year, they had a great offensive team, but couldn't stop anybody on defense. They had to try to outscore everybody, but it didn't always work out that way."
Saban was a defensive-minded coach, which Alabama valued significantly throughout his tenure.
"I think if you really want to make it to the playoffs and make a run, you have to be able to play defense," he added.
He mentioned how great Beck has looked and how the Hurricanes allow him to play at his best as a pocket-passer.
"The fact that they can play so much better on defense this year, I think, is the thing that gives them the best chance," Saban said. "Defense travels. Even when you play on the road in tough environments, it shouldn't affect the defensive players nearly as much as the offensive players."
Saban believes that the Hurricanes are a legitimate team this year. Receiving such praise from someone who has achieved tremendous success at the collegiate level should bring confidence and pride to the program.
The pregame show will air on ESPN, featuring guest picker and two-time Stanley Cup champion Matthew Tkachuk, and the game will be televised on ABC.