Hurricanes In Cincinnati Looking For 4-0 Start To Season
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CORAL GABLES (CBSMiami) – The University of Miami is all set to invade Nippert Stadium on the campus of the University of Cincinnati.
The Bearcats are expecting 40,000 fans, the most to ever watch a game at old Nippert stadium, which is the second oldest stadium in the nation.
Cincinnati head Coach Tommy Tuberville announced the Bearcats will start redshirt freshman quarterback Hayden Moore. Gunner Kiel has been ruled out because of a neck injury.
Still the Canes secondary will have their hands full with the Cincinnati passing game. The Bearcats average 412 yards a game through the air, 2nd best in the nation. Moore who set a new passing record in the Bearcats last game is tall with a strong arm and has played like a veteran.
"It's going to take every ounce of energy we have, complete focus by our entire team" said Hurricanes coach Al Golden. We can't give up the big play and have to keep the game in front of us."
The Hurricanes offense has been sharp so far averaging 287 yards through the air-36th in the nation and 472 yards per game also 36th in the nation. " We have to keep getting the ball to our playmakers and do a good job of protecting the ball said offensive coordinator James Coley."Every possession is critical so we have to be good on 3rd downs and stay on the field."
Expect Miami to run the ball and try to shorten the game. Last year the Canes bludgeoned UC on the ground for over 300 rushing yards. Running back Joe Yearby is averaging 7.6 yards per carry, 19th best in the nation. Freshman Mark Walton scored 4 touchdowns in his first 2 games. Both backs will also play a significant role in the passing game.
The keys for the Canes will be getting excellent play from the secondary, run the ball to control the clock and take the ball away from the Bearcats. Miami must play well early because they don't want to leave this game hanging in the balance in the 4th quarter.
UC has won 27 consecutive non-league games at Nippert Stadium, dating back to the 2003 season. The Canes are a 6-point favorite over the Bearcats.
Listen to the Miami Hurricanes take on the Cincinnati Bearcats this Thursday at 7:30 p.m. on Sports Radio 560 WQAM, your official radio home for the Canes!
Follow Joe Zagacki on Twitter (@canesvoice)