With SMU locked in for the ACC Championship, the stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the season as Miami vies for a chance to secure the final spot. FanDuel has already released the betting odds for a potential showdown between the Mustangs and Hurricanes, sparking excitement among fans and bettors alike.
According to FanDuel, Miami would enter the ACC title game as 3.5-point favorites over SMU, with a projected over-under set at 63.5 points. The anticipation is mounting as the Hurricanes prepare for a crucial Week 14 matchup against Syracuse, a game that will determine whether they claim their place in the championship or leave the door open for Clemson.
SMU’s Dominant Debut Season
SMU has been a revelation in its first year in the ACC. The Mustangs clinched their spot in the title game with a decisive win over Virginia, maintaining an undefeated record in conference play. Ranked No. 9 in the latest College Football Playoff standings, Rhett Lashlee’s squad has set the standard with a high-powered offense and a strong defensive presence.
Before the championship game, SMU will face Cal in their season finale, but their sights are already set on the December showdown in Charlotte.
Miami’s Offense Shines Under Cam Ward
For Miami, the road to the ACC Championship hinges on their ability to defeat Syracuse. The Hurricanes boast one of the most potent offenses in college football, led by Heisman Trophy contender Cam Ward. The former Washington State quarterback has electrified Miami’s attack, leading the nation with 34 passing touchdowns and ranking second in FBS with an average of 343.1 passing yards per game.
Ward’s seamless integration into offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson’s scheme has not only elevated Miami’s title hopes but also boosted his NFL Draft stock.
Cristobal Keeps Focus on the Task at Hand
While fans and analysts speculate about a potential matchup with SMU, Miami head coach Mario Cristobal remains laser-focused on Syracuse. Cristobal emphasized that his coaching staff avoids hypothetical scenarios and prioritizes the immediate challenge in front of them.
“We don’t talk much in ifs,” Cristobal stated. “We address more in absolutes, like, ‘This is what we’re going to do. This is how we’re going to do it. This is how we’re going to approach it.’ Hypotheticals and maybes are just not part of our dialect when we’re preparing for a contest.”
What’s at Stake
If Miami defeats Syracuse, they will advance to the ACC Championship to face SMU in what promises to be an explosive battle between two offensive powerhouses. However, a loss would hand Clemson the chance to represent the ACC Coastal Division against SMU.
The Hurricanes’ fate will be decided this weekend, with kickoff against Syracuse scheduled for Saturday. Will Miami punch their ticket to Charlotte, or will the ACC title hopes shift to Clemson? Fans won’t have to wait long to find out.
