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Surging Hurricanes Battle Blue Devils in ACC Clash

The No. 5-ranked Miami Hurricanes (8-0, 4-0 Atlantic Coast Conference) host the Duke Blue Devils (6-2, 2-2 ACC) as they continue to push toward earning their spot in the Atlantic Coast Conference Championship and the College Football Playoff when they face off on Nov. 2. The game will mark the 21st overall meeting between the two schools, although the Hurricanes own the overall lead 15-5, the Blue Devils won the last matchup 45-21 in 2022. Will the Blue Devils have the weapons and gameplan discipline to end the surging Hurricanes' undefeated season?

What's on the Line?

For the Hurricanes, it's another rung in the ladder for their climb to the ACC title game. The Hurricanes have taken care of business throughout their schedule and won. They have one of the nation's top quarterbacks, Heisman Trophy hopeful Cam Ward, and many weapons to attack opposing defenses. The one thing missing from the Hurricanes resume has been a statement win against a quality opponent. A strong win against the Blue Devils would provide exactly that.

The game will mark a return to the sidelines of Hard Rock Stadium for Duke head coach Manny Diaz who was head coach of the Hurricanes from 2019-2021. Diaz has certainly put his stamp on the team in short order. While quarterback Maalik Murphy has done well this season as the starter, this team is led by the defense. Currently, the Blue Devils are second in points allowed (18.3 points per game) and are led by linebacker Alex Howard (59 tackles, 5 sacks). While the Blue Devils are not eliminated from the ACC title picture, they need help. Going into South Florida and leaving with a much-needed win would be a huge boost.

Who to Watch for the Hurricanes

While Ward has been stellar, his receivers are led by Xavier Restrepo who leads the team in receiving yards (710) and touchdowns (6). Restrepo, along with receivers Isaiah Horton, Sam Brown Jr. and Jacolby George, are all averaging 12 yards or more per reception. With an offense averaging 561 yards and 47 points per game, the defense must be equally dominant. Led by linebacker Francisco Mauigoa who has 43 tackles, 2 sacks, 5 pass breakups and an interception he has been the heartbeat of the defense. Defensive linemen Simeon Barrow Jr. and Tyler Baron have made a living in the backfield of their opponents with 10 sacks and 49 tackles between them.

Blue Devils to Keep an Eye on

Murphy has command of the offense, averaging 6.4 yards per attempt he's shown a strong arm and that he can make any throw. Receivers Jordan Moore and Eli Pancol lead the team with 927 yards and 10 of Murphy's 17 touchdowns. Both Moore and Pancol are solid route runners who know how to get open and can make catches in and out of traffic. Running back Star Thomas has led the charge on the ground with 681 yards and five touchdowns. Defensively, Howard has helped the Blue Devils defense allow only 18.6 points per game. Cornerbacks Joshua Pickett and Chandler Rivers have blanketed opposing receivers with 11 pass breakups and two interceptions between them.

Matchup to Watch

Mishael Powell vs. Jordan Moore

Powell has been the lockdown corner for the Hurricanes, leading the team with 3 interceptions. His coverage ability will likely be tested with Moore who has been the go-to target for Murphy and the Blue Devils offense with 481 yards and 4 touchdowns this season. Will Moore's disciplined route running get needed separation on Powell?