Miami Hurricanes Over 7.5 (+130)

Miami Hurricanes Under 7.5 (-145)

Miami Hurricanes to Win Conference (+2500)

Miami Hurricanes to Win CFB Championship (+16000)


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The Miami Hurricanes, led by head coach Mario Cristobal, are expected to make a strong comeback in the upcoming 2023-24 ACC season. The team has enlisted Shannon Dawson as their new offensive coordinator. Despite a disappointing 5-7 record (3-5 in ACC) last season, they have considerably improved their roster by recruiting new talent and utilizing the transfer portal. Coach Cristobal's focus on developing players and planning strategic games will positively impact the team's performance.


A notable player returning to the team is Tyler Van Dyke, a fourth-year junior quarterback. His quick decision-making skills and strong throwing arm could lead the offense to victory. Standing tall at 6'4" and weighing 225 pounds, Van Dyke threw for 1,844 yards and ten touchdowns, completing 63.2% of his passes. He did miss parts of six games due to various injuries.


The Miami Hurricanes have faced challenges in recent seasons, with inconsistencies on both offense and defense. However, this year's team has shown promise in addressing these weaknesses. The coaching staff has worked to improve the protection and implement a new pass-focused offense. With this new strategy, opposing teams may need time to adjust, giving Miami an advantage and potentially leading to a solid start to the season. Shannon Dawson is joining as the new offensive coordinator and bringing an Air Raid offense to Coral Gables. This system is beneficial for both quarterbacks and receivers. Less than two years ago, Van Dyke won ACC Rookie of the Year after throwing for 2,931 yards and 26 touchdowns. With Dawson's help, he can get back on track.


Last season, the Hurricanes' offensive line had some struggles that resulted in inconsistent pass protection. They ranked No. 113 in sacks allowed per game (an average of 3.3). However, they did a good job creating opportunities for the run game and are expected to improve even more. Surprisingly, the overall ranking for the Hurricanes' offensive line was No. 47. There is potential for the offensive line to become an elite unit. On the other hand, Miami's defense had some solid performances but often crumpled in the fourth quarter. They ranked No. 65 in yards allowed per game (376.5), which was better than the league average.


Miami football is experiencing renewed optimism with an improved roster and talented recruits joining the team. The Hurricanes are determined to overcome previous setbacks and make a statement in ACC play. Miami's special teams unit was ranked in the Top 30 last season and looks just as good, if not better, in 2023. However, Miami must address the concern of replacing both starting cornerbacks. On a positive note, Miami has a returning All-American, safety Kamren Kinchens, to lead a group with high-end talent and anchor the defense. Kinchens is likely to head to the NFL after this season, marking the first time Miami has had a returning All-American since 2006.


They certainly have not been a stranger to safeties going high either, with the likes of Bennie Blades (1988 3rd overall, Detroit Lions), Ed Reed (2002 24th overall, Baltimore Ravens), and Sean Taylor (2004 5th overall, Washington Redskins) being just a few of the truly elite safeties that have played for the Canes.


Many people will closely watch their performance as the Miami team prepares for the upcoming season. With their recent changes and improvements, they have the potential to compete at a high level within the NCAAF's ACC conference if they focus on their strengths and weaknesses. Coach Cristobal's second season with the team is expected to be a great help, as he improved significantly in his second season at his last two coaching positions (FIU & Oregon). Although the Hurricanes are relatively young, their predicted win total seems too low not to consider betting on the over at plus money.


My Selection: Miami Hurricanes Over 7.5 +130


Twitter: @JHSPORTSLINE