When an offsides penalty gave Brad Kaaya a free play, he cashed in with a long completion to help the Miami Hurricanes beat Virginia Tech.
The 45-yard gain led to the touchdown that put the Hurricanes ahead to stay. Kaaya also directed a 75-yard touchdown drive in the final minutes of Saturday's 30-20 win.
Kaaya finished 19 for 30 for 296 yards. His pivotal completion came with the score tied, Miami at its own 11-yard line and 42 seconds left in the first half.
The Hurricanes were trying to run out the clock, but on third and 20, Virginia Tech jumped offsides. The Hurricanes took advantage by switching to deep pass.
"If they jump offsides, it's an automatic go route," Kaaya said.
"Brad is really sharp with that," coach Al Golden said.
Kaaya hit Herb Waters for a gain to the Tech 44, and Miami went on to score with four seconds left in the half.
"That's a game-changer right there," Kaaya said. "It changed momentum. I think it changed the outcome."
Miami (4-2, 1-1 Atlantic Coast Conference) bounced back from a loss a week earlier at Florida State and beat the Hokies (3-4, 1-2) for the second year in a row. The Hurricanes are hoping for a rematch with the Seminoles in the ACC title game in December.
"We preached we can't worry about last week," Kaaya said. "We want to see Florida State again. To do that, we have to handle business."
Miami's defense forced four Tech turnovers and had three sacks. Brenden Motley threw two interceptions and lost a fumble, which led to 10 Miami points.
"We played great on defense," end Chad Thomas said. "We were greedy."
After Tech scored a touchdown to cut Miami's lead to 23-20 midway through the fourth quarter, Kaaya led a nine-play drive and capped it by throwing a 2-yard touchdown pass to Rashawn Scott with 2:44 to go.
Artie Burns then sealed the victory with his second interception of the game. The Hurricanes committed no turnovers.
"We made too many mistakes, gave them too much," Hokies coach Frank Beamer said.
Beamer second-guessed himself for deploying an aggressive defense at the end of the first half, when Miami went the length of the field to score on Kaaya's 7-yard pass to Scott.
"If I have to do it over, I play before the half different," Beamer said.
Motley went 14 for 23 for 136 yards. He was replaced midway through the second half by Michael Brewer, who played for the first time since he broke his left collarbone in Tech's season-opening loss to No. 1 Ohio State.
Brewer threw a 33-yard touchdown pass to Isaiah Ford before the Hurricanes answered with their final touchdown drive.
"Unfortunately it wasn't enough," Brewer said. "But it was nice to get out there and get my feet wet a little bit."
Miami played the last 20 minutes without middle linebacker Raphael Kirby, who was carted to the locker room with a right knee injury. His replacement, sophomore Juwon Young, had an interception and a tackle for a loss.
"I've been kind of down, waiting for my chance, and today I got it," Young said. "It made me feel good my preparation paid off."
NEW BLOG IS UP!
Posted by: 86Cane | October 20, 2015 at 11:14 PM
Speaking of....
Barry Jackson @flasportsbuzz 38m38 minutes ago
UM, disgusted with offensive line penalties, is making OL do 250 up downs - a lot harder than pushups - for every penalty he commits in game
Posted by: 1mg of Epi | October 20, 2015 at 11:11 PM
Not sure who it was, but I believe it was not BKs fault
Posted by: 1mg of Epi | October 20, 2015 at 11:00 PM
I thought I read Gall was at center for that play because Linder was out due to injury for a short period?
May be totally wrong on that but thought I saw it somewhere.
Posted by: Go Canes | October 20, 2015 at 10:48 PM
Hey I'm not loving this 99.9999999% of the time being out of the gun but maybe they feel like they have no choice because out of from under center Kaaya wouldn't have sufficient time to scan and throw.
Posted by: Lurker | October 20, 2015 at 09:40 PM
How about operating under center, and using a lead blocker? That the one time they went under center resulted in a fumbled exchange is not a good look.
Posted by: 1mg of Epi | October 20, 2015 at 10:37 PM
ratboys talking sh*t to players like McCord on FB and Twitter, when in real life they would piss all over themselves if he was in front of them.
Posted by: Lurker | October 20, 2015 at 09:38 PM
Yea.. That's the ultimate in weak ass keyboard commandoing. It's one thing to call out coaches, on a blog, but it's not OK to pull that crap on players, and definitely not on Twitter.
BTW.. I just now caught up on the blog... I see what u were talking about.
Posted by: 1mg of Epi | October 20, 2015 at 10:34 PM
@smillerdegnan: Still searching for right lineup - & getting punished for penalties. @CanesFootball https://t.co/w76LEvBqf8 https://t.co/g5gn7B0wma
Posted by: Go Canes | October 20, 2015 at 10:19 PM
Sully, get well, brother. Vitamin C is key
Posted by: Ohio_Cane | October 20, 2015 at 10:18 PM
U
Posted by: 🐜🌀 | October 20, 2015 at 10:15 PM
ratboy lol
Posted by: Lurker | October 20, 2015 at 10:01 PM
u
Posted by: Sarasota 'cane | October 20, 2015 at 09:58 PM
^^^^^^^
because of Oline probs
Posted by: Lurker | October 20, 2015 at 09:41 PM
Hey I'm not loving this 99.9999999% of the time being out of the gun but maybe they feel like they have no choice because out of from under center Kaaya wouldn't have sufficient time to scan and throw.
Posted by: Lurker | October 20, 2015 at 09:40 PM
Posted by: 1mg of Epi | October 20, 2015 at 08:23 PM
You got that right.
Love the ratboys talking sh*t to players like McCord on FB and Twitter, when in real life they would piss all over themselves if he was in front of them.
Posted by: Lurker | October 20, 2015 at 09:38 PM
In addition, why can't teams stop them?
Posted by: USAFCane | October 20, 2015 at 09:16 PM
Along the lines of what Soup said about how poor Canes look during games in comparison to everyone else.
I've watched a lot of Baylor and TCU and their offenses are evidently unstoppable despite everyone knowing what is coming. Meanwhile the Canes seem pedestrian and very stoppable in comparison. Obviously Miami isn't the only program they've outperformed but it the only one I care about. Looking at their respective recruiting over the last few years:
How can they be so much better?
Why doesn't Miami have an O that beats down an opponent like theirs?
Is it as easy as coaching?
Recruiting (ESPN)
15 - Canes 23, Baylor 32, TCU 37
14 - Canes 10, Baylor 22, TCU 43
13 - Canes 15, Baylor 28, TCU 49
12 - Canes 8, neither Baylor nor TCU in top 25
Experts, any thoughts because I don't get it.
Posted by: USAFCane | October 20, 2015 at 09:12 PM
Why do we run the read option if there is no option? Kaaya never has and never will run. I understand if the read option optioned in a pass, then it would make sense. Yes we did pass it twice off the read, but 99% of the time it's a run. If we are running it, just run the dayum ball, defenses aren't even looking at the qb "fake".
Posted by: Da U N Houston | October 20, 2015 at 08:41 PM
Go Canes... I'm still waiting on you to hit me wit those Whoppers you was talking about???
Posted by: WWIN | October 20, 2015 at 08:31 PM
Just seeing another fake-ass keyboard g talking about something he apparently has a lot of experience with.
Posted by: Lurker | October 20, 2015 at 07:12 PM
Well....... I Have a yet to come across somebody who isn't a tough guy on an anonymous blog! I'm pretty sure u haven't either lol
Posted by: 1mg of Epi | October 20, 2015 at 08:23 PM
GO CANEZ
Posted by: SinisterCane | October 20, 2015 at 07:54 PM
That's what she said.
Posted by: Old Skool | October 20, 2015 at 06:03 PM
Hey, I was going to say that
Posted by: thirstybuzzardcane | October 20, 2015 at 07:32 PM
You da man Raize.
Can't go the whole season without hooking up again.
Posted by: Go Canes | October 20, 2015 at 07:28 PM
Thank you all for the birthday wishes. Very much appreciated. My boys from way back hooked me up with a round of golf and a bottle of rum to drink on the course. Shot a 92 so i can't complain.
Again, thanks for the b-day wished my canespace fam.
Posted by: raizecane | October 20, 2015 at 07:22 PM
What should there be outrage about?
Posted by: 1mg of Epi | October 20, 2015 at 06:11 PM
No, you got it wrong.
I said, where's the fake outrage, like the last time. You know, pretending to be outraged by language. I'm not seeing it now. LMFAO
Just seeing another fake-ass keyboard g talking about something he apparently has a lot of experience with.
Posted by: Lurker | October 20, 2015 at 07:12 PM
Posted by: CoCane | October 20, 2015 at 06:21 PM
You're welcome for the therapy session you so desperately needed.
Posted by: Go Canes | October 20, 2015 at 06:55 PM
Posted by: CaneRock | October 20, 2015 at 06:17 PM
CR I didn't play at MDCC. I played after I transferred.
But to answer I went to Dade 83-84.
Don't know the name of the park anymore. It was a matchbox gym just north of 163rd St and maybe NE 2nd Ave? They had a great run on Monday nights, then we'd hit a bar and watch Big Monday on
ESPN.
That was back when college ball was the chit.
Posted by: Go Canes | October 20, 2015 at 06:54 PM
Old Skool Brilliant LOL.
Posted by: Terrance Sullivan | October 20, 2015 at 06:41 PM
Butch had more shyt to put up with than Goldie ever dreamed of. U lose the ships Butch lost and tell me what Goldie's record would be. I'm tired of that dam lame azz orange tie too! If he wants to be a professor go teach a class because football ain't it!
Posted by: herbieibis | October 20, 2015 at 06:34 PM
I'm sorry Legion. I don't post as much these days but I try to enjoy reading. Sometimes Go Canes is too much. The fukk shyt gets rediculous. I had chop his high horse at the knees. I'm done.
BLOG ON
COKE JUST LEFT THE BUILDING
Posted by: CoCane | October 20, 2015 at 06:21 PM
And Go Canes...what year did you play at MDCC?...you probably played with a cousin of mine.
Posted by: CaneRock | October 20, 2015 at 06:17 PM
Epi,
The outrage is idiots consistantly defending the Golden shower. Pizz really stinks after 4 1/2 years. Ugh!
Posted by: CoCane | October 20, 2015 at 06:15 PM
During that time I played everywhere from Cutler Ridge to Edison to Hialeah to North Miami.
Posted by: Go Canes | October 20, 2015 at 05:57 PM
Go Canes...what park did you play at in North Miami?
Posted by: CaneRock | October 20, 2015 at 06:15 PM
That was bait dum dum :-)
Posted by: CoCane | October 20, 2015 at 06:13 PM
What should there be outrage about?
Posted by: 1mg of Epi | October 20, 2015 at 06:11 PM
Especially when they dress like Jeannies. ('o')
Lmao
Posted by: CoCane | October 20, 2015 at 06:11 PM
You're the root. Bitches turn me on. Lol
Posted by: CoCane | October 20, 2015 at 06:10 PM
El stupido! I didn't say you ripped Butch. I said you lied on him and you did...
I know you weren't ripping Butch. You were rationalizing your Golden shower on the sly. Soak in it then...
Posted by: CoCane | October 20, 2015 at 06:09 PM
I HIGHLY recommend you get to the root of why you're having those kind of visions. I mean, big time.
That would probably go a long way in explaining why you're so obsessed with them.
Because your continual and each time more vivid descriptions of their content are both unnerving and a little creepy.
Posted by: Go Canes | October 20, 2015 at 06:06 PM
Physically unable to perform
Posted by: Terrance Sullivan | October 20, 2015 at 04:15 PM
That's what she said.
Posted by: Old Skool | October 20, 2015 at 06:03 PM
I had a vision...
I see Go Canes dresses up Barbara Eden on I dream of Jeannie, feeding Folden grapes, calling him master and begging for a Golden shower. With Christina Aguilera playing in the background...
"I'm a jeannie in a bottle baby, you got to rub me the right way"!
Lmao!
Posted by: CoCane | October 20, 2015 at 06:01 PM
Posted by: CoCane | October 20, 2015 at 05:35 PM
Give me a break man. Don't pretend like you know me you clown. I come from nothing and grew up half my life poorer than dirt.
I went to Miami Dade North for a year before transferring to a 4 year school where I played college ball for a year.
During that time I played everywhere from Cutler Ridge to Edison to Hialeah to North Miami.
I have no fear of Sistrunk or wherever the hell you live. I grew up surrounded lower middle class. Black, white and Hispanic like me.
What you know about me or where I come from doesn't fit in your limited brain pan. Just like you can't figure out my post wasnt to rip Butch, it was to illustrate a point a 10 year old would get.
Go back to obsessing about someone doing something with another dude's ass. It's obviously the only thing you're capable of.
Posted by: Go Canes | October 20, 2015 at 05:57 PM
Thank you Laquinton!
Posted by: Terrance Sullivan | October 20, 2015 at 05:56 PM
Posted by: SOUP | October 20, 2015 at 03:36 PM
A lot of that check with me crap is used simply to slow
The game down, to cover for the defense.
Posted by: 1mg of Epi | October 20, 2015 at 05:50 PM
Kaaya needs to tighten up near the GL, Saturday was the 2nd game in a row where He mishandled a snap down there. If He doesn't mishandle the one at FSU, we probably score a TD on that play.
Posted by: CaneRock | October 20, 2015 at 05:50 PM
Hopefully we win. I too feel crappy all week if Miami loses. It's not the same if Baltimore lose in the NFL or my Bulls in the nba. Wish the best for Golden and Co. But I hope we just beat Clemson. Dabo is the dumbest damn name ever
Posted by: laquinton | October 20, 2015 at 05:48 PM
Does anybody around here actually do any real "work" during the day?
Posted by: SOUP | October 20, 2015 at 03:14 PM
Nah, I work for a company that pays me very well to sit on my ass sooo the only work I'm driving there to sit at my desk .
Posted by: laquinton | October 20, 2015 at 05:47 PM
Is it really that hard to run, jump, catch, block and tackle? I swear that there are times during the games when it looks like we have never practiced. At games I ask out loud to anyone within ear shot: "Do we even practice?"
Posted by: SOUP | October 20, 2015 at 03:32 PM
They don't practicing snapping the ball under center. Apparently.
Posted by: 1mg of Epi | October 20, 2015 at 05:46 PM
LMAO!
Posted by: CaneRock | October 20, 2015 at 05:45 PM
Terrance, get well man.
Posted by: laquinton | October 20, 2015 at 05:43 PM
Bu the way...
You're middle aged...
I'm in my prime. 35 looking 25, No gray hair and chocolate like Willie Wonka's factory. Everything you wish you were. Are YOU there yet???
Posted by: CoCane | October 20, 2015 at 05:41 PM
Thank you Soup!
Posted by: Terrance Sullivan | October 20, 2015 at 05:36 PM
This is funnier...
Find where I portray a gangster on here and I'll stop. You can't because I don't. You lied on Butch, now you're lying on me.
Who really needs to grow up???
I don't live in the burbs. I live on Sistrunk in the heart of the city. The kind of place you speed through...
If I'm Malibu's most wanted, I'm wanted by those fine azz rich white girls that have been laughing at and dissing your lame azz since you started puberty.
Just get some WD40 so you can squeeze your head out of Folden's azz. Your feet are dangling...
Posted by: CoCane | October 20, 2015 at 05:35 PM
Thank you Lur-ker.
Posted by: Terrance Sullivan | October 20, 2015 at 05:35 PM
Nothing funnier than a 9 to 5-ing middle aged dad living in the suburbs trying to be Ice Cube from 90' when he's actually the one from Are we there yet???
Posted by: Go Canes | October 20, 2015 at 05:21 PM
Good. Living and loving life. Poppa Coke just asked about you earlier. I told him you're good considering you have to police so many of us maniacal cane fans on here. Lol!
I hope things are all good with you bruh
Posted by: CoCane | October 20, 2015 at 05:18 PM
Posted by: CoCane | October 20, 2015 at 04:59 PM
Right or wrong, I know who I am.
The transparent gangsta wannabe charade you put on here is a a sad mix of hysterical and pathetic.
Grow up dude.
Posted by: Go Canes | October 20, 2015 at 05:15 PM
Where's all the fake outrage???
Posted by: Lur-ker | October 20, 2015 at 05:15 PM
No Terrance = Broken Hearts from Twin Peaks to Hooters!
We got your back buddy.
#GoCanesBeatClemson
Posted by: SOUP | October 20, 2015 at 05:15 PM
COKE is in da house! How U been?
Posted by: SOUP | October 20, 2015 at 05:13 PM
Even if bashing Folden gets overdone. That still ain't enough. He deserves more...
Posted by: CoCane | October 20, 2015 at 05:12 PM
^^^^ The prodical son Shyt Samich appears. Help your daddy! Lmao
Posted by: CoCane | October 20, 2015 at 05:10 PM
Bash Philbin, Bash Butch, but DEFEND Golden!
Posted by: WWIN | October 20, 2015 at 02:54 PM
Philbin deserved ALL of the bashing he got and then a 1000 times more.
Golden deserves MOST of the bashing he gets although it seems a little overdone at times.
Bash Butch? I ain't got time for that.
Posted by: SOUP | October 20, 2015 at 03:21 PM
2 out of 3 ain't bad
Posted by: 1mg of Epi | October 20, 2015 at 05:09 PM
I heard you dress up like Bruce Jenner for Folden. Just know, that I know, that won't be costume on Halloween.
You salty dawg...
Posted by: CoCane | October 20, 2015 at 05:07 PM
Feel better, Terrance
The hoops you have to jump through just to get to a canes game means never having to say you're sorry, no matter the reason
Chicken soup and a couple of dancing girls and you'll be good as new. Bring us good luck from afar, please
Posted by: Lur-ker | October 20, 2015 at 05:06 PM
I kept telling everyone at the VT game last Saturday this:
Watch a full Saturday of college football, then watch the Canes play. The other teams make the game look so easy and effortless and we make it look so difficult and complicated.
Is it really that hard to run, jump, catch, block and tackle? I swear that there are times during the games when it looks like we have never practiced. At games I ask out loud to anyone within ear shot: "Do we even practice?"
Posted by: SOUP | October 20, 2015 at 03:32 PM
I have these exact thoughts. Time and time again they look lost. It is poor coaching and the fact it rarely changes is the benchmark under AG.
Posted by: USAFCane | October 20, 2015 at 05:04 PM
Lying on Butch for an excuse to support Folden. Smh. What a sad little boy...
Posted by: CoCane | October 20, 2015 at 05:04 PM
LMAO!
Posted by: CaneRock | October 20, 2015 at 05:01 PM
Go Canes,
You are addicted to being wrong and splashing in the Golden shower.
I said nothing violent. I just spoke on your Folden fetish. Isn't that pleasure for you???
Posted by: CoCane | October 20, 2015 at 04:59 PM
Thank you SinisterCane!
Posted by: Terrance Sullivan | October 20, 2015 at 04:57 PM
Thank U Go Canes!
Posted by: Terrance Sullivan | October 20, 2015 at 04:57 PM
And I was wondering why the spread just ticked a point and half.
Terrance isn't coming!
Damn, we're doomed!
Feel better buddy. I was dying the week leading up to the FSU game, I can feel your pain.
Posted by: Go Canes | October 20, 2015 at 04:45 PM
TS,
Recover well homie
Posted by: SinisterCane | October 20, 2015 at 04:44 PM
I think Folden pushed your shyt in so far up your azz, he's using you for a puppet...
Posted by: CoCane | October 20, 2015 at 04:07 PM
Oh Malibu's Most Wanted...I know typing these words get you more excited than the time you got your mini van to burn rubber on the way out of Pembroke Lakes Mall after a day of walking around eating frozen yogurt and splurging on a cinnamon pretzel but...a middle age soccer dad constantly referring to violent acts is a little silly don't you think?
Posted by: Go Canes | October 20, 2015 at 04:42 PM
Thank you Rock I appreciate it. Hope your wife feels better.We go through the same thing here in Alabama have to show ID as well.
Posted by: Terrance Sullivan | October 20, 2015 at 04:26 PM
Maaaaan Terrance, I hope you get well SOON! My wife came down with a bug a couple of days ago, symtoms involving a sore throat. She's been taking Advil Cold & Sinus...don't know what it's like in Alabama, but She had to show ID to buy it.
Posted by: CaneRock | October 20, 2015 at 04:19 PM
That is not true, I am clearly better than everybody else here. I thought that was obvious? Can't U tell?
Posted by: SOUP | October 20, 2015 at 03:13 PM
That's because if your looks. Handsome!!!
Posted by: 1mg of Epi | October 20, 2015 at 04:15 PM
Physically unable to perform list. Damn Autocorrect.
Posted by: Terrance Sullivan | October 20, 2015 at 04:15 PM
I am saddened that I will not be able to make this Clemson Game this weekend. In the words of our very own Cane the Rock. I feel like 10 pounds of monkey crap. I feel like crap at work and know I will be in zero position to travel. KYCane I am mailing U my Ticket and other information today. I apologize to Soup and KYCane and the Canesspace FAM For not Being able to make it but I am on the physically unable to period list this week. Will resume for Homecoming in 2 weeks against Virginia. Go Canes! Beat Clemson!
Posted by: Terrance Sullivan | October 20, 2015 at 04:14 PM
Go Canes,
Butch Davis wins against teams that finished in the top 25 from 95-99
1995: 35-24 over #22 Syracuse
1996: 38-31 over #21 Syracuse
1998: 49-45 over #8 UCLA
1999: 28-13 over #17 Georgia Tech
I count 4 wins in big games over ranked opponents.
You said he lost every big game! ('o')
400% more than your precious Golden shower, that has NONE...
Also, Butch finished ranked every year at the "U" except 97.
Once again. Comparing them is futile. Butch had much more success. It makes you seem stupid. Stop it...
I think Folden pushed your shyt in so far up your azz, he's using you for a puppet...
Posted by: CoCane | October 20, 2015 at 04:07 PM
58 straight years?
Things that make U go hmmmmmm...
Posted by: 58 Straight | October 20, 2015 at 03:59 PM
---------------------------------------------
It's all about the numerology. Lol
Posted by: Ohio_Cane | October 20, 2015 at 04:05 PM
OK, so this Vishnu guy is very good but he has way too much time on his hands. IJS
Posted by: SOUP | October 20, 2015 at 04:02 PM
Al Golden’s Last Gasp — Resurrection or the End?
Vishnu ParasuramanOctober 20, 2015
It was a win. Not pretty, but necessary. Miami beat Virginia Tech in consecutive years for the first time since winning three in a row from 2000-2003. While that three-game winning streak featured some of the best teams in the country, this game was a mess.
Although, Al Golden did manage to prove me wrong…
He proved the age-old adage, it is better to have a bad coach than a senile coach. And Frank Beamer handed that win to the Canes by first starting his backup QB when his starter was healthy and then never having his offensive coordinator adjust to the fact that the Canes’ defense was getting shredded by the run, instead allowing QB Brenden Motley to throw (and fumble) the game away.
In a way, it was Golden’s gameplan working to perfection. His conservative tendencies rely on the other team’s mistakes. And sure enough, when Virginia Tech executed a play successfully, there was nothing the Canes even attempted to do to stop it. The Hokies ripped off several big runs and hit a few big pass plays.
But to the Canes’ credit, they were there to take full advantage of the Hokies’ mistakes.
◦When Motley had a pass slip out of his hands, the Canes were there to pounce on it (of note, it didn’t show well on TV, but Motley had — if not a TD — a massive gain on this early fumble because the Canes fell for the reverse fake and half the field was wide open).
◦When VT jumped offside (insanely, given the circumstance) on 3rd and 20 from the 11, Kaaya hit the deep ball to Waters for a huge play which lead to a TD going into the half.
◦When VT’s quarterbacks (both Motley and Michael Brewer) threw late passes, Artie Burns was there to snatch the ball.
Burns is now third in the NCAA, averaging 0.8 Interceptions per game. And Miami leads the nation in turnover margin at +2.17 per game.
Turnover Reliant
That the Canes are able to force mistakes and capitalize on them is their greatest strength. This was on full display on Saturday, as both teams repeatedly shot themselves in the foot with stupid penalties and poor line play. But it was Miami who turned Virginia Tech’s mistakes into game-winning plays.
The problem? While it is good to be able to take advantage of mistakes, Miami has gone a step further. The Canes are dependent on the other team screwing up. Without a spate of turnovers and mistakes (both forced and unforced), Miami is unable to operate at a high level. It’s why they lack the “consistency” that Al Golden keeps searching for. A team will never be consistent when they rely on the other team to make mistakes. A look at the Canes’ first six games shows just how much Miami needs turnovers to succeed:
Opponent Turnovers Gained Turnovers Lost Turnover Margin Result
Bethune-Cookman 2 1 +1 W
Florida Atlantic 5 0 +5 W
Nebraska 3 1 +2 W
Cincinnati 1 0 +1 L
Florida State 0 0 even L
Virginia Tech 4 0 +4 W
If you take out the FCS opponent (BCC), the Canes are 3-0 when winning the turnover margin by more than two turnovers and 0-2 when winning the turnover margin by one or less.
The Business End
Miami will gratefully take any win, including a sloppy affair against the Hokies, because we’ve arrived at the sink or swim portion of the schedule. I said before (and after FSU) Golden won’t get fired or save his job based on one game. He has been here five years and will be judged on a five-year tenure.
But this week is probably the beginning of a resurrection or the beginning of the end. Here is Miami’s schedule (F+ rankings taken from Football Outsiders):
Opponent Record F+ Ranking Result
Bethune-Cookman FCS FCS W
@Florida Atlantic 1-5 92 W
Nebraska 3-4 38 W
@Cincinnati 3-3 67 L
@Florida State 6-0 14 L
Virginia Tech 3-4 54 W
Clemson 6-0 1 N/A
@Duke 5-1 24 N/A
Virginia 2-4 89 N/A
@North Carolina 5-1 31 N/A
Georgia Tech 2-5 58 N/A
@Pittsburgh 5-1 36 N/A
For reference, Miami’s F+ ranking is 40th. Removing FCS Bethune-Cookman, the average F+ of team’s Miami has played is 53, while the average of future opponents is 39.8.
Miami is heading into a much tougher part of the schedule. They’ve only played one team with a winning record so far, Florida State. Four out of the six remaining games are against teams with winning records, and those four opponents have combined for three losses total, which is the same total as the second best team Miami has played (and lost to), Cincinnati. From a win percentage standpoint, the teams the Canes have played so far have gone .500, while their remaining opponents have gone .676.
The ACC Coastal standings complete the picture:
Rank Team Conference Record Overall Record
1 Pittsburgh 3-0 5-1
2 Duke 2-0 5-1
3 North Carolina 2-0 5-1
4 Miami 1-1 4-2
5 Virginia 1-1 2-4
6 Virginia Tech 1-2 3-4
7 Georgia Tech 0-4 2-5
While this looks like a five-team race, it is actually a four-team race (Virginia has no chance and will probably finish in last) and the Canes are in much worse shape than the standings portray for two reasons:
◦Clemson and FSU are far and away the best teams in the ACC Atlantic. And this year, they both play Miami and Georgia Tech. That means that the Canes are competing with three teams that have much easier crossover games.
◦Miami has to play the three teams above them in the Coastal on the road.
Which brings us back to this Clemson game as the pivot. If the Canes lose, they’ll have to make up two games on each of the three teams in front of them, with a game remaining against each on the road. That means they’ll likely have to win three road games where they are underdogs AND get help.
Clemson represents Golden’s last opportunity for his elusive “signature win.” But winning this game probably represents his last, best chance at competing in the ACC Coastal as well.
It’s a tall order, especially given that Miami’s only conference loss to put them in this predicament was a close game at Florida State. But we shouldn’t lose sight of what brought us to this point, which is four-plus years of complete failure. The mountain to climb is a mountain Golden built himself.
Follow Vishnu on Twitter (@VRP2003)
Posted by: SinisterCane | October 20, 2015 at 03:59 PM
58 straight years?
Things that make U go hmmmmmm...
Posted by: 58 Straight | October 20, 2015 at 03:59 PM
Posted by: Ohio_Cane | October 20, 2015 at 03:44 PM
Thanks for the numbers!!!!
Posted by: SinisterCane | October 20, 2015 at 03:50 PM
UM 41 - Clemson 20
I just gonna keep going with this score until I get it right. Kinda like Lotto #s, just keep playing the same ones until they win.
Posted by: SOUP | October 20, 2015 at 03:24 PM
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My grandfather played the same number combo for 58 years. He passed away and never won the lottery.
Just some perspective lol
Posted by: Ohio_Cane | October 20, 2015 at 03:44 PM
The last 2 times Clemson has played here they have made it their home field, the same for us at their field, Golden has to pull out all stops, this is gut check time. I'm not real impressed with Clemson's running game but we all know who our coordinator is, so this means they probably have close to 100 yds at half time, just in time for DENO to awaken from his snooze and make some worth while adjustments. Watson is who we have to worry about and contain. If we don't get any pressure, this will be a long day. I might be off my rocker but I see us winning 30-28 and yes we take the Nat'l lead for field goals.
Posted by: herbieibis | October 20, 2015 at 03:43 PM
Offensively, what I don't get, is why do we use those big @$$ play cards with ONE PICTURE?
Every other team I see that uses em', has play cards with 4 quadrants, with 4 different pictures.
Posted by: CaneRock | October 20, 2015 at 03:42 PM
The other teams make the game look so easy and effortless and we make it look so difficult and complicated.
Posted by: SOUP | October 20, 2015 at 03:32 PM
You ain't the only one. I noticed that watching Baylor this weekend...they could've played blindfolded and scored 50.
Posted by: CaneRock | October 20, 2015 at 03:38 PM
Posted by: SOUP | October 20, 2015 at 03:32 PM
My feelings EXACTLY! Even the teams that aren't good make it look easy. Maybe bcuz we expect so much from our Canes???
Posted by: WWIN | October 20, 2015 at 03:37 PM
And since when did having a huddle on offense become illegal? I hate it on a critical third down the offense looks over at the sideline to get the call and everyone has their hands raised up like WTF? Then they are scrambling to get lined up with 3 seconds to go and nobody knows the play call.
The defensive coach on the opposite sideline watches and waits until we signal in the play and then calls his defense. Half of the fans at the game were calling run or pass simply based on the formation the Canes were in. If it is that obvious to the fans you think the other team knows what is going on also? DUH!
Posted by: SOUP | October 20, 2015 at 03:36 PM
Is it really that hard to run, jump, catch, block and tackle? I swear that there are times during the games when it looks like we have never practiced. At games I ask out loud to anyone within ear shot: "Do we even practice?"
Posted by: SOUP | October 20, 2015 at 03:32 PM
"Powerful you have become, the Dark Side I sense in you!" - Yoda
Posted by: Sarasota 'cane | October 20, 2015 at 03:36 PM
Sota... you shoulda told me you was rolling thru this past weekend!
Posted by: WWIN | October 20, 2015 at 03:19 PM
I had 2 other friends say the same thing!! I went to an old friend's house in Clarkesville Saturday afternoon, drove to the game Sunday morning, and then drove back to Atlanta right after the game!! Next time my cane brother!!
Go Dolphins!!!!
Posted by: Sarasota 'cane | October 20, 2015 at 03:34 PM
I kept telling everyone at the VT game last Saturday this:
Watch a full Saturday of college football, then watch the Canes play. The other teams make the game look so easy and effortless and we make it look so difficult and complicated.
Is it really that hard to run, jump, catch, block and tackle? I swear that there are times during the games when it looks like we have never practiced. At games I ask out loud to anyone within ear shot: "Do we even practice?"
Posted by: SOUP | October 20, 2015 at 03:32 PM
Posted by: SOUP | October 20, 2015 at 03:21 PM
Philbin AND Golden BOTH deserve their bashing... Golden more so because he's been a Head Coach for 10yrs... Philbin 4yrs. You're supposed to get better with experience!
Posted by: WWIN | October 20, 2015 at 03:31 PM
I hate when we lose, it just drains the life out of U and it's not the losing but how we lose: stupid penalties, inability to convert third downs or stop them, play calling, redzone inefficiency, terrible special teams play, U name it, we just can't play 2 complete halves of football.
Posted by: herbieibis | October 20, 2015 at 03:22 PM
There IT is right there.
Posted by: SOUP | October 20, 2015 at 03:27 PM
Funny you constantly accuse me of that but I pointed out two whoppers you totally made up last week alone and you completely ignored them.
So you're welcome.
Posted by: Go Canes | October 20, 2015 at 03:22 PM
You pointed out what??? On your twitter account you NEVER responded back! I said "if that's not your twitter handle than what is it?" and then CRICKETS from you!
Posted by: WWIN | October 20, 2015 at 03:26 PM
Bash Philbin, Bash Butch, but DEFEND Golden!
Posted by: WWIN | October 20, 2015 at 02:54 PM
I guess you have to assume its hard to be critical of Golden if they meet him for boosters events, if there's such a thing
Posted by: SinisterCane | October 20, 2015 at 03:25 PM
UM 41 - Clemson 20
I just gonna keep going with this score until I get it right. Kinda like Lotto #s, just keep playing the same ones until they win.
Posted by: SOUP | October 20, 2015 at 03:24 PM
This is Miami's first true test against a good QB......He will kill us with his feet!!! Our o-line will struggle this game.
Clemson 48
Miami 10
Posted by: thirstybuzzardcane | October 20, 2015 at 03:23 PM
Posted by: WWIN | October 20, 2015 at 03:10 PM
Yes I can show something new.
I was nice enough to call what you say about me rhetoric instead of flat out lies like I usually do. Funny you constantly accuse me of that but I pointed out two whoppers you totally made up last week alone and you completely ignored them.
So you're welcome.
Posted by: Go Canes | October 20, 2015 at 03:22 PM