The pressure is on for both Florida and No. 19 Miami as the Sunshine State rivals open the 2024 college football season by meeting for the first time since 2019 in a high-stakes showdown Saturday in Gainesville, Florida. Third-year coaches Billy Napier (Florida) and Mario Cristobal (Miami) are each below .500 so far in their tenures after entering as celebrated hires following the 2021 season, and each could use marquee early-season wins to build momentum.
Progress is expected, but nothing will come easy for either squad. The Gators face what appears to be the nation’s toughest schedule and should feel a sense of urgency to defend their home field in a nonconference game. The Hurricanes’ slate isn’t quite as daunting, but Miami must battle sky-high expectations. Despite going just 7-6 last season, the ‘Canes are expected to compete for a College Football Playoff bid and the ACC title.
Both teams signed top-10 transfer classes in the 247Sports Team Rankings to help expedite their rebuilds. But there is no time to ease in the newcomers. Week 1 is here, and only one team is going to enter Week 2 feeling good about the direction of its season. The time for moral victories has dissipated for two proud programs needing Year 3 progress under their coaches.
Florida vs. Miami: Need to know
Ready to rock: Is…
Source link : https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/florida-vs-miami-prediction-pick-spread-football-game-odds-where-to-watch-tv-channel-live-stream/
Author : David Cobb
Publish date : 2024-08-31 14:15:49
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