CFB: Miami at Florida (8:00E, ESPN)

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2008-09-05

As Florida came into prominence as emerging national power, Miami-FL wanted nothing to do with the Gators. These two squads have avoided each other like McCain and Obama, despite the occasional hosannas of praise. The U has stood for greatness on the national stage, however since 40-3 backside beating in the Peach Bowl against LSU in 2005, the slide has been precipitous. What has been noticed at Coral Gables is great athletes, lacking football instincts. Coach Randy Shannon is trying to restore the U in Hurricanes, bringing in players that fit both criteria of athleticism and football player. More of Shannon’s recruits will play more than the leftovers, meaning growing pains will be part of the process while still trying to live up to history. The youngsters got some confidence whipping Charleston Southern 52-7 last Thursday. The ‘Canes are 9-6 ATS as road pooches.

Florida will field as good a team as any in college football in 2008. This is Urban Meyer’s team through and through, having recruited virtually every player except for a few remaining fifth-year seniors. The Gators do have positions that are unsettled and 56-10 thumping of Hawaii contest was stepping stone to bring this club together. The offense starts with Heisman winner Tim Tebow, who Meyer hopes will do less with more around him. The Florida staff wants to see less running from Tebow, with other weapons showcasing abilities. This should be breakout year for receiver Percy Harvin. The Gators are 9-2 ATS at The Swamp, off a home game and believe the defense will be dramatically improved over last year. New coordinator Bill Young has to be thrilled to come to work every day seeing this much talent, after having success at Kansas.

Florida has lost six straight to Miami, including bowl games. The Gators have fashioned 9-3 ATS record out of the SEC, including six straight covers, under Meyer and want to end losing streak to the ‘Canes. Miami is just 13-23 ATS off a home win by 28 or more points.

StatFox Forecaster –Florida covers