Eye-Opening Powerful Win by Hurricanes Against the Gators

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The No. 19 Miami Hurricanes scored a convincing 41-17 victory over the Florida Gators on Aug. 31 in Gainesville, Fla. After a highly touted recruiting class and additions via the Transfer Portal, the Hurricanes entered the game in need of making a statement. Mission accomplished.

Hurricanes Dominate

While hopes were high for both the Gators and Hurricanes, Miami seized the opportunity. It opened the scoring early when quarterback Cam Ward found tight end Cam McCormick for a 9-yard touchdown. The Hurricanes never looked back. In his debut, Ward finished the day 26-of-35 passing for 385 yards and 3 touchdowns. He showed poise and a comfort level in this new (to him) offensive system. All-Atlantic Coast Conference wide receiver Xavier Restrepo picked up where he left off last year. He led Miami receivers with 7 catches for 112 yards and a touchdown.

On defense, the Hurricanes attacked downhill and pressured quarterbacks Graham Mertz and DJ Lagway consistently. Mertz was sacked several times throughout the game. He was replaced late in the game after a hard hit by the Hurricanes' defense. Miami's defense sacked the Gators' quarterbacks 3 times and had 2 interceptions. The Hurricanes' defense held the Gators' offense to 261 yards on the day.

Was there a turning point?

This game was out of hand quickly as the Hurricanes took the lead early and never looked back. By halftime, Miami was in cruise control with a 24-10 lead. The Hurricanes' offseason additions seemed to have paid off for head coach Mario Cristobal.

Game Fallout

For the Hurricanes, the hype heading into this season seems to be warranted. They beat the Gators in every aspect of the game. Ward and Restrepo played like they have known each other for years. On Sept. 7, Miami will face the Florida A&M Rattlers.

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For the Gators, head coach Billy Napier and his staff need to figure things out in short order. The Gators have a tough schedule and Napier already is on the hot seat. That seat only got hotter after Florida's tepid performance. On Sept. 7, Florida plays the Samford Bulldogs. Could the Gators replace Mertz with Lagway? Samford might provide an opportunity for the young signal-caller to get playing time.