College Football: Five Keys to a Florida State Victory Over Miami
Believe it or not, Florida State and Miami week is already here.
With both programs on the rise back to greatness, this year's matchup is one of the most anticipated meetings between the rivals in recent history.
Miami enters the game ranked 13th in the nation with a record of 3-1. Florida State comes in at 23 in the nation with four wins and one loss.
As always, this game should come down to the last minutes and could swing either way.
Here are five keys to Florida State walking out of Miami victorious.
Christian Ponder
1 of 5
The first key is an obvious one, as quarterback play is always pivotal to a team's success.
Christian Ponder, who entered the season viewed as a Heisman candidate by many, has struggled in the first five games of the season.
The fifth year senior hasn't played like himself, some think he's still not 100 percent after his offseason surgery. Regardless, Ponder doesn't put up with any excuses for his play and knows he needs to improve.
He will have little room for error against Miami, who touts a tough defense lead by a strong defensive line.
Look for Ponder to make an impact both through the air and on the ground against the Hurricanes.
Wide Receivers
2 of 5
Part of Ponder's struggles are rooted in the play of his wide receivers, as the corps has had a difficult time gaining separation and getting open this year.
There were many questions surrounding the young unit entering the season, and it's easy to see why now.
However, over the past two games sophomore Willie Haulstead has broken out with three touchdown catches. Haulstead can prove himself to be a legitimate deep, scoring threat with a big performance against the Hurricanes.
Junior Bert Reed also needs to step up, as he's been inconsistent to this point. Reed was one of Ponder's most dependable receivers last season.
Another youngster who needs to rise to the occasion is sophomore Rodney Smith, who also has high expectations.
Offensive Line
3 of 5
Florida State's offensive line has a huge test this weekend against the Hurricanes' front four. The Hurricane's defensive line is arguably one of the best in the nation, and if not taken care of properly, will give Christian Ponder and the Florida State offense fits all day on Saturday.
In order for the Seminoles' offensive attack to be successful, the offensive line must keep the pocket in tact at least long enough for Ponder to get rid of the ball and make good decisions.
They also must be able to block for the run, as the Seminoles will definitely look to continue using their strong running game.
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Secondary Play
4 of 5
Heading into the game Florida State knows very well what Jacory Harris and the Hurricanes like to do on offense.
Harris is a high risk, high reward type of quarterback who loves to throw the deep ball to his receivers. Florida State will be looking to eliminate any rewards for the Harris on Saturday.
In order to do so, all of the Seminoles' corners and safeties must play their best ball. They need to stay home in the zone, make big hits, and make plays on the ball.
Harris has a tendency to throw it deep even if multiple defenders are on his receiver, and if prepared correctly the Seminoles can take advantage of these risky passes.
If the Florida State secondary has a good day, Harris and the 'Canes will have a tough time coming out with a win in this one.
Special Teams
5 of 5
Last but not least, the Seminoles will need big plays from their special teams against the Hurricanes.
Both programs have great special team units, each with great kickers and return men. If Greg Reid can manage to pull off a big return at any point, the momentum swing for the 'Noles will be huge.
However, the tables can be just as easily turned with the Hurricanes' stable of return threats as seen so far this season.
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