Not since 2004 has a game between Florida State and Miami meant as much as it will on Saturday night. With both teams ranked in the top 10, one of college football’s biggest rivalry games should get new life.
Miami vs. Florida State 2013: NFL Draft watch notes for rivalry game
Which Stephen Morris will show up for Miami?
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Of course, Florida State is still a heavy favorite in this one, having dominated every opponent its faced. Miami, meanwhile, has struggled in recent weeks, remaining undefeated but not looking impressive in doing so.
Just like the Miami vs. Florida State games of old, plenty of NFL talent will be on the field in Miami for this one. Here is a look at the top prospects to watch on Saturday.
Miami vs. Florida State, 8 p.m. ET, ABC
When Florida State has the football
All eyes will be on "Famous" Jameis Winson when Florida State has the ball, but the redshirt freshman quarterback is not eligible for the 2014 NFL Draft. Kelvin Benajamin and Rashad Greene will be Winston's primary targets in the passing game, and the two complement one another well. Benjamin's massive frame will catch the attention of scouts in attendance.
In the running game, James Wilder Jr. and Devonta Freeman should help Florida State's offense stay balanced. Outside of the skill positions, center Bryan Stork is the player to key on. He moves well in space and demonstrates good technique.
Miami's defense doesn't boast a ton of draft-eligible talent, but defensive end David Gilbert is an intriguing guy to watch. Many wrote him off after a foot injury at Wisconsin, but he transferred to Miami and has worked his way into the rotation. Junior linebacker Denzel Perryman has probably been the most impressive member of Miami's defense this season, though.
When Miami has the football
Stephen Morris has been one of the most inconsistent quarterbacks in college football this season. One second he's throwing a frozen rope that has people thinking about his NFL potential, the next he's making a head-scratching decision with the football. Saturday will be a huge test for him. Not only are Christian Jones and Telvin Smith among the best cover linebackers in the country, but Florida State also has a tough secondary. Cornerback Lemarcus Joyner has steadily improved throughout the season, while safety Terrence Brooks hasn't been talked about quite as much. Brooks has a ton of range and seems to be improving when it comes to reading the quarterback. Miami wide receiver Allen Hurns may find it tough to get open in this game.
The Hurricanes' offensive line will also command a lot of attention from NFL Draft fans. Seantrel Henderson has been in and out of the lineup throughout his college career, but when he's playing he shows the talent to be considered one of the best offensive tackles in the country. Brandon Liner, who could be a guard or a tackle in the NFL, has played well for Miami this season as well.
Question of the night
Which Stephen Morris will show up?
This game has the potential to be a blowout in Florida State’s favor, and Morris is the reason why. He’s been erratic as a senior to the point where it’s only a matter of time before it costs Miami a game. Florida State won’t give Miami much room for error, so it will be essential that Morris takes care of the football. If he rises to the occasion, the Hurricanes have a chance. Otherwise, this one could get ugly fast.
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