The Miami Hurricanes secured a 53-31 victory over the Duke Blue Devils, overcoming a third-quarter deficit to maintain their undefeated record. Key performances included Cam Ward's 400 passing yards and five touchdowns, and Xavier Restrepo's record-breaking catches. Despite a strong start, Duke could not sustain their lead, with Miami rallying to score 36 of the game's final 39 points.
In a thrilling ACC showdown, the Miami Hurricanes rallied to defeat the Duke Blue Devils 53-31 at Hard Rock Stadium. The game was marked by significant comebacks and record-setting performances, particularly from Miami's quarterback Cam Ward and receiver Xavier Restrepo. Despite Duke initially leading in the third quarter, Miami's relentless offense and strategic plays turned the tide, securing their ninth win of the season and keeping their playoff hopes robust.
Miami found themselves trailing 28-17 early in the third quarter but quickly shifted the momentum. Led by Cam Ward, who threw for 400 yards and five touchdowns, the Hurricanes executed a series of successful drives. Key plays included a 66-yard touchdown by Xavier Restrepo, which broke multiple school records. Duke, on the other hand, struggled to maintain their early form, with quarterback Maalik Murphy throwing for 325 yards and three touchdowns but also committing crucial turnovers that Miami capitalized on.
The game was not just a win for Miami but also a night of records. Xavier Restrepo's eight receptions for 146 yards and three touchdowns saw him breaking Santana Moss's record for receiving yards and tying the record for career receptions at Miami. On the Duke side, Sahmir Hagans had a standout performance with nine catches for 139 yards, showcasing the depth of talent on both teams despite the final score.
This victory is crucial for Miami as it precedes the first College Football Playoff rankings of the season. Remaining undefeated at 9-0, the Hurricanes are poised to be a strong contender in the playoff discussions. The performance against Duke, especially the strong second-half showing, will likely bolster their case for a high ranking, reflecting their resilience and potent offense.
The Miami Hurricanes' comeback against Duke highlights their offensive capabilities and resilience under pressure, key traits for a playoff contender. As they prepare for their next game against Georgia Tech, maintaining momentum will be crucial. For Duke, refining their defense and managing turnovers will be essential to regain a competitive edge in their upcoming games.
"It was a game of two halves, and thankfully, our guys showed up when it counted." - Mario Cristobal