Miami's playoff hopes narrow

Aaron Patrick Lenyear

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Miami still has a path to the playoff, but the margin is thin image

TL;DR

  • Miami Hurricanes, ranked No. 13 with an 8-2 record, still have playoff hopes.
  • Offense, led by QB Carson Beck, must regain early season momentum and play mistake-free.
  • A top-10 defense has been strong, crucial for sustaining playoff aspirations.
  • Miami needs to win all remaining games and potentially by large margins for ACC Championship.

Although the Miami Hurricanes currently seem to be on the outside, their chances for the playoffs are not yet extinguished. What initially appeared to be a long-awaited return to prominence has evolved into a desperate struggle for survival as the season winds down. Nevertheless, with a record of 8–2 and a ranking of No. 13, Miami possesses a genuine prospect of winning all remaining games and remaining a contender for The College Football Playoff, provided they can swiftly alter their trajectory.

For this to occur, Miami's offense must regain its initial season momentum. Quarterback Carson Beck appeared proficient at the year's outset, but the Hurricanes will require him to enhance his performance once more as the season concludes. Should Beck provide effective, mistake-free play, Miami's potential will considerably increase.

Fortunately, the Hurricanes can rely on a defense that has quietly performed as one of the country's top units. Miami is among the top 10 nationally in points surrendered, total yards conceded, yards per play, and points per play. This defensive unit has maintained their competitiveness even during offensive struggles, and it will be crucial for them to perform at their peak this season to sustain Miami’s playoff aspirations.

Miami still possesses a route to the ACC Championship Game, though a number of factors need to align favorably. Securing victories in all remaining games is essential, and the margin of victory could also play a role. It's a precarious situation, but not an impossible one. Should Carson Beck regain his form and the defense continue its strong performance, Miami might still find its way into national contention.

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Editorial Team