Georgia Tech vs. Miami Preview

This Thursday features another big game in the ACC, as the Yellow Jackets travel to Miami to take on the Hurricanes.  There are big implications towards determining the ACC Champion in a game that marks the first ACC matchup between two AP Top 25 teams; (20) Miami and (14) Georgia Tech.

The Coastal Division is crowded this year, as they hold the top four spots in the ACC Power Rankings: Week Two.  The game will be defining for both teams and will go a long way in determining the future Coastal Division winner.

Both teams have shown off their high-flying offenses and all signs point to a shootout in the making.

Georgia Tech put up big numbers on Clemson in the first quarter with an 82-yard scoring run and an 85-yard punt return for a touchdown.  The Jackets have a great rushing attack led by Jonathan Dwyer, who has gained 6.4 yards per carry in their first two games. 

The Hurricanes will need to be ready for the option early if they aim to stop the streak of two consecutive games in which the Jackets have had long touchdown runs to score first.

The biggest weakness for Tech will be their pass defense that gave up 193 yards through the air to Jacksonville State and 261 to Clemson.  Miami has a great chance to exploit that weak spot on Thursday, after sophomore quarterback Jacory Harris threw for 386 yards and two touchdowns on Labor day against Florida State.

Keys To The Game

Miami needs to stop the run early against Georgia Tech and avoid having to dig out of a hole.  In addition, the pass offense for the Canes needs to have a big game if they are going to outgun the quick-strike Tech offense.

Georgia Tech will have to play better defense than they did against the Tigers in the second half.  They need to score early and put the game away without giving the Miami offense a chance at a comeback.

The X-factor in this game could be turnovers.  Tech has turned the ball over five times in two games; two interceptions and three fumbles.  Harris also showed a slight crack in the armor with two interceptions against FSU.  Each possession will be extremely important and turnovers will be costly in this game.

Prediction

Georgia Tech 36 - Miami 34

Join us during the game in the Georgia Tech vs. Clemson Chat Room.  "Stand Up For Your Team"