Indeed, the NCAA Football Betting time is now for head coach Mario Cristobal and the Miami Hurricanes. So, too, can that be said for head coach Billy Napier and the Florida Gators. Both coaches were hailed as saviors upon their hiring. But neither has distinguished himself. Yet, Napier’s seat is much hotter than Cristobal’s. Cristobal has the advantage of having played and coached at his alma mater. By contrast, Napier is an outsider. Both coaches had strong resumes before taking on their current roles. But the time has come for breakout seasons at each school.
Miami Hurricanes vs. Florida Gators NCAAF Betting Information
| Date and Time: | Saturday, August 31, 2024, 3:30 p.m. ET |
|---|---|
| Location: | Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, Gainesville, FL |
| TV Coverage: | ABC |
| Team | Spread | Total | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Miami Florida | -2½ -110 | 54 -110 | -145 |  |
| Miami | +2½ -110 | 54 -110 | +125 | |
| ||||
Florida Gators Team Overview
Following an 11-14 start to his tenure in Gainesville, coach Billy Napier enters a crucial third season at the helm. However, making offshore bookmaker progress and returning to a bowl game after a five-win campaign last year won’t be easy. Especially with Florida facing one of the nation’s most difficult schedules.
If the Gators exceed expectations in ’24, it’s likely to be on the strength of their offense. Last year, quarterback Graham Mertz had a surprising debut. Mertz threw for 2,903 yards and 20 touchdowns, and just three picks in 11 starts. The supporting cast is strong thanks to the return of running back Montrell Johnson. Also helping is breakout candidate Eugene Wilson III at receiver and three starters along the offensive line.
Florida’s defense struggled mightily in ’23. Correlate that the Gators allowed 33.6 points a game in SEC contests. Also, Florida surrendered nearly 200 rushing yards in a contest in conference action last year. Napier hired veteran coach Ron Roberts to oversee the defense. But second-year coordinator Austin Armstrong will retain play-calling duties. A handful of transfers provide optimism for improvement.
Miami Hurricanes Team Overview
For Miami to break out in 2024, it must first be all about quarterback Cameron Ward. Specifically, a productive offseason in the portal has ratcheted up expectations. Head coach Mario Cristobal enters his third season with a 12-13 record at his alma mater. This year could temper the criticism or turn up the heat.
The ‘Canes have an intriguing pairing on offense. Starting with Ward and Oregon State transfer Damien Martinez anchoring the backfield. Although the defense was fortified in the trenches through the portal, the secondary remains a concern.
Miami’s hopes begin with Washington State transfer quarterback Cam Ward. Previously, Ward was the dynamic talent who chose Miami for his fifth and final collegiate season. Ward has thrown for 13,874 career yards and 119 touchdowns in two seasons at WSU and two at FCS Incarnate Word. Also, UM got the services of UAlbany transfer Reese Poffenbarger. In turn, he threw for 36 TDs and 3,603 yards in 2023 — the most of any FCS quarterback.
Also, First-team All-Pac 12 running back Damien Martinez, the top-ranked back in the portal, arrives from Oregon State. He ran for 1,185 yards and nine TDs last season. Martinez gives the Canes a feature back to keep defenses honest.
Miami-FL at Florida SBG Free Picks
In this situation, both teams are facing similar NCAA Football Betting pressure. Miami offers more value with the enhanced road team price.
Miami-FL at Florida SBG Best Bet: Miami Hurricanes.