Miami Claims Victory Over Florida State, Celebrates ‘State Champs’ Title
The University of Miami Hurricanes secured a thrilling 28-22 victory against the Florida State Seminoles on October 7, 2023, in Tallahassee, Florida. This win marked a significant moment for the Hurricanes, as they celebrated their status as “Back to Back State Champs.” Following the game, players displayed placards proclaiming this title, emphasizing the importance of the rivalry to the team and its fans.
Miami’s offensive tackle, Francis Mauigoa, took center stage at the end zone, waving the Miami flag and playfully mimicking a flag-planting gesture, a nod to the intense rivalry’s history. Head coach Mario Cristobal joined in the celebration, engaging with fans and emphasizing the team’s commitment to maintaining their competitive spirit.
The matchup was particularly significant, being the first time since 2016 that both teams faced off as ranked opponents. Miami jumped to an impressive 28-3 lead in the fourth quarter, showcasing strong performances from quarterback Carson Beck and receivers Malachi Toney and CJ Daniels. Despite a late rally from Florida State, Miami’s early dominance proved sufficient to secure the win.
Beck’s performance was noteworthy, completing 20 of 27 passes for 241 yards and four touchdowns without any interceptions. Toney and Daniels each contributed two touchdowns, while the Miami running backs combined for only 97 rushing yards, their lowest total of the season. Beck attributed the team’s success to a strategic shift towards a more aggressive passing game, noting that this approach was a focal point of their game plan against the Seminoles.
The rivalry’s charged atmosphere was palpable, with moments of celebration and emotion. Daniels, after scoring, engaged in the Seminole chant but later expressed some regret about his exuberance, recognizing the need to manage emotions on the field. Cristobal addressed these moments, emphasizing a forward-looking approach for Miami football, while still valuing the legacy of past teams.
Cristobal remarked, “We are moving forward. We’re not going back. We’re taking the principles and values of all those awesome teams and pushing Miami football to modern-day standards.” This statement reflects his commitment to building a team that honors the past while striving for future success.
Despite the victory, Cristobal acknowledged that the team must continue to improve. Defensive back Jakobe Thomas echoed this sentiment, indicating that the players are aware of the need for growth. Cristobal emphasized the importance of learning from their performances, stating, “Whatever shows on film that you’re not good at, it’s going to get exposed. We’ve got a long way to go.”
As Miami prepares for their upcoming schedule, including another open date, the players remain focused on refining their skills and maintaining their momentum. With a perfect 5-0 record this season, including wins against ranked opponents, the Hurricanes are positioning themselves as a formidable contender in college football. The foundation laid in this rivalry game could serve as a catalyst for their ongoing success as they aim to remain competitive in the seasons ahead.
