Online sports wagering enthusiasts and NCAA football betting sharps might be a tad more excited out this matchup if it were taking place roughly ten years ago. Both Florida State and Miami’s football programs have been undergoing a bit of rebuilding as of late. Gone are the days of Deion Sanders, Warrick Dunn, Ray Lewis and Ed Reed, and this likely won’t mirror the 1987 matchup between these schools—we highly doubt that 50 future NFLers are on these rosters. But nonetheless, the Seminoles-Hurricanes rivalry is a historic one, and one that creates a special energy every time it is revisited.
Sports bettors are most certainly eyeing up the Florida State Seminoles in this contest. After a shocking loss to perennial underdog Wake Forest, the ‘Noles bounced back and turned in a dominating performance against Colorado. While the final score doesn’t reflect complete domination—39-21—the Seminoles outscored the Buffaloes 18-0 in the second half. Florida State will be riding that momentum right into this game—as if they needed any extra motivation!
Miami, meanwhile, faltered against an upstart North Carolina squad. The Hurricanes played well throughout the game, controlling the ball well. Running back Graig Cooper rushed for 100 yards and a touchdown, however his performance was spoiled. While Miami had struggled to find a running game all season long, it was their passing game that failed them against the Tar Heels. Pivot Robert Marve threw for only 135 yards, and threw up two irresponsible late interceptions.
To be fair, Florida State’s quarterback wasn’t much more efficient—Christian Ponder had his critics pondering with a 10-for-22 performance against Colorado. This game will come down to a battle of the defenses, which likely gives the edge to Florida State on the road.
NCAA Football odds:
Florida State- + 2.5, +115
Miami- -2.5, +135
The Pick:
Miami has won seven of ten meetings against the ‘Noles, and holds a large lead in the overall historical series, but Florida State figures to put a dent in that this weekend. The best value here is Florida State on the moneyline, however if you’re playing that, you might as well tack on the ‘Noles plus the points in this one—it’s doubtful that they’d win by less than three points!