Miami-Georgia Tech Preview: The Cheat Sheet

Miami is currently in first place and seeking to secure a spot in the Atlantic Coast Conference championship game. Long-shot Georgia Tech must win to stay eligible for the title.

THE GAME

Miami at Georgia Tech, Nov. 20, Atlanta, GA—The Hurricanes are making their second consecutive Thursday night appearance, while Georgia Tech’s last game played was on Nov. 8.

THE OFFENSE

Expect coach Randy Shannon to continue his two-quarterback system with freshmen Robert Marve and Jacory Harris. Miami’s offense is not the strongest (ranking 100th in the nation), so they will have to contend with Georgia Tech’s rushing attack.

THE DEFENSE

Miami has been strong against the running game, an area that Georgia Tech will surely test as the Yellow Jackets are averaging at 251 yards a game. Tech is one of the nation’s best rushing teams (currently ranking 8th). Miami boasts the 19th best rushing defense and 10th in total defense.

THE PLAYERS TO WATCH

Miami freshman quarterback Robert Marve needs to stay focused. One of the ACC's lowest-rated passers; Marve has been intercepted 10 times in nine games while throwing for seven touchdowns. This guy, however, is highly mobile, so Georgia Tech will need to up their athleticism to catch him.

Wide receiver Aldarius Johnson is the team’s leader in receiving with 27 catches. With 15 receptions over the last four games, Johnson is tied with fellow freshman Travis Benjamin for the team lead with three touchdown catches.

THE FACTS

Miami will take the field as a top 25 team for first time since 2006, when the Hurricanes lost against Louisville, 31-7, and failed to make the next 41 AP polls.

Georgia Tech has won three straight games in the series and is 7-2 overall against the Hurricanes at Bobby Dodd Stadium.

Last matchup between Miami and Georgia Tech was Oct. 13, 2007; Georgia Tech won, 17-14.

THE ROSTER REPORT

Left tackle Jason Fox (leg) is expected to start alongside Reggie Youngblood.

Wide receiver Travis Benjamin, who suffered an ankle injury against Virginia Tech, is also expected to be back.

THE PREDICTION

The 'Canes need to be fast and injury-free to secure a win. If Miami can overcome Georgia Tech by scoring first, then this game will be a lock for the Hurricanes. Expect this game to be a good one!