Seminoles at Hurricanes Game Preview: Who Takes Home The Win In This In-State Rivalry?
It's always a marquee matchup when Florida State faces Miami in any sport. Whether it be fighting it out on the football field or exchanging baskets on the court, it's a date that's always circled by fans of both teams.
Tonight, the Miami Hurricanes (12-4) play host to the Florida State Seminoles (10-6) in a pivotal ACC matchup that could go a long way toward determining these two teams' futures going forward.
The Hurricanes are led by fourth-year junior Norchad Omier, currently averaging 17.3 PPG to go along with 9.3 RPG. One of the best players in the conference, Omier has struggled as of late seemingly dealing with an ankle injury.
The Seminoles are led by junior transfer Jamir Watkins from VCU. Currently averaging 13.0 PPG, he's one of eight Seminoles averaging over six points per game.
The storyline of this game will be Matthew Cleveland facing his former team for the first time since his transfer this past summer. The last time the Seminoles were on this floor, Cleveland buried the game-winning shot to cap a Florida State comeback win.
While Miami does have the edge in a majority of the statical categories, Florida State is coming into this game on a four-game winning streak where they have forced an average of 15 turnovers per game in their last four. Miami head coach Jim Larrañaga mentioned to the media that when FSU gets you turning the ball over, you'll lose.
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All signs point to Miami however, as they'll hope that Wooga Poplar and Nijel Pack are good to play as they've been battling injuries. The Hurricanes will also need to zone in on their rebounding, as the Seminoles have five players listed at 6-foot-10 or taller on the roster.
Miami working on rebounding drills ahead of tomorrow’s matchup. The Seminoles have 5 players 6’10” and up while Miami has just one. Defensive rebounding has been a problem at times this season@AllHurricanes pic.twitter.com/GzXoJPT3nE
— Liam Willerup (@theleftyliam) January 16, 2024
Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM EST and you find the game broadcasting on ACC Network.
Betting odds via Hard Rock Bet: Miami (-7.5) vs Florida State, Miami (-325 ML) and Florida State (+240 ML)
Prediction: Miami (FL) 86 - Florida State 79
2023-24 Miami Hurricanes Basketball Schedule
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You can find Liam on Twitter @theleftyliam where he shares news on University of Miami basketball and football as well as opinions