Miami Hurricanes Dominate NC State with 41-7 Victory
Full Transcript
The Miami Hurricanes put on a dominant display against NC State, securing a 41-7 victory at Hard Rock Stadium. This win solidified Miami's position in the College Football Playoff rankings, improving their record to 8-2 overall and 4-2 in the Atlantic Coast Conference.
The Hurricanes entered the game ranked 15th in the CFP standings, and performances like this are crucial as they aim to impress the 12-person selection committee. According to the Miami Herald, this was one of the most complete games the Hurricanes have played this season, showcasing their potential as serious contenders in the ACC.
Carson Beck led the charge, completing 21 of 27 passes for 291 yards and three touchdowns, two of which went to Malachi Toney. Beck's performance was particularly noteworthy as he connected on his last 13 attempts, demonstrating efficiency and precision.
Miami outgained NC State significantly, racking up 581 total yards compared to the Wolfpack's 149. The Hurricanes' defense was equally impressive, with Jakobe Thomas making headlines by intercepting two passes in the first quarter, one of which he returned for a touchdown, setting the tone early in the game.
The ACC Official report highlighted that NC State, which had been averaging 454 yards per game, struggled throughout the contest, with eight of their first ten drives ending in either a punt or an interception.
Miami took a commanding 41-0 lead before easing off in the fourth quarter, where NC State managed to score a late touchdown to avoid being shut out. This marked the first time since 2014 that NC State faced such a lopsided defeat, as they have allowed 36 or more points in four consecutive games, a concerning trend for their coaching staff.
The game also signified the last home game of the season for Miami unless they advance in the playoff picture, with Miami's average attendance this season hitting a record high for the program. As the Hurricanes prepare for their final two games against Virginia Tech and Pittsburgh, they must continue this momentum to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Coach Mario Cristobal emphasized the significance of such a performance, stating, 'The way you play the game, it screams, right? Loudly.' This decisive victory not only boosts morale but also strengthens Miami's case for a potential spot in the College Football Playoff, as they look to navigate through a competitive landscape of two-loss teams vying for at-large bids.