Amber Aniston • October 27, 2024

Miami Hurricanes Dominate Florida State in 36-14 Rivalry Victory

The No. 6 Miami Hurricanes extended their undefeated season on Saturday with a commanding 36-14 victory over their in-state rivals, the Florida State Seminoles, at Hard Rock Stadium. The win not only ended Miami’s three-game losing streak in this heated rivalry but also solidified their position as the dominant force in Florida college football this season.


In front of a roaring home crowd, the Hurricanes took control of the game from the first whistle, using both explosive offensive plays and suffocating defense. Florida State, facing one of their toughest seasons in recent memory, struggled to keep pace with Miami’s relentless performance on both sides of the ball.


Miami's Offense and Defense Shine

The Hurricanes set the tone early, scoring on their first drive of the night with a seven-play, 67-yard series. Running back Mark Fletcher Jr. punched in a 1-yard touchdown, putting Miami ahead with just over two minutes off the clock. This early score not only energized the home crowd but sent a clear message that Miami was determined to dominate their in-state rivals.


On the defensive side, Miami’s front seven consistently applied pressure, holding Florida State to just 71 rushing yards and forcing multiple quarterback changes. The Seminoles, struggling to find a rhythm, benched redshirt freshman Brock Glenn after several stalled drives, turning to true freshman Luke Kromenhoek. Kromenhoek’s mobility gave Florida State a brief spark, as he rushed for 71 yards, but Miami’s defense held firm, limiting the Seminoles' offensive production for most of the game.


Fletcher Powers Through Personal Loss

The night carried personal significance for Miami running back Mark Fletcher Jr., who had lost his father just days before the game. Despite the emotional weight of the week, Fletcher was a key contributor to Miami’s offense, scoring early in the game and playing a critical role in several key drives. His poise and resilience under such difficult circumstances exemplified the kind of leadership and dedication he brings to the team.


Damien Martinez Dominates on the Ground

While Miami’s passing game saw some struggles, quarterback Cam Ward completing 22 of 34 passes for 208 yards, the Hurricanes leaned heavily on their powerful rushing attack to control the game. Damien Martinez, who transferred from Oregon State, turned in one of his best performances of the season. He rushed for 148 yards on 15 carries and scored two crucial touchdowns, showcasing his strength and agility as he consistently broke through the Florida State defensive line.


Martinez’s first touchdown, an 18-yard run, came in the second quarter and extended Miami’s lead, putting further pressure on the Seminoles. His ability to power through tackles and create big plays was key to Miami’s offensive success. Late in the game, Martinez added another touchdown on a 12-yard run, sealing the win for Miami and cementing his role as one of the team’s most important offensive weapons.


Miami’s Passing Game Finds Rhythm Late

Although Miami’s passing game was not as sharp as in previous weeks, it found its rhythm in the second half. Ward, who faced consistent pressure from Florida State’s defensive line, managed to connect with his receivers in key moments. One of the most memorable plays came in the fourth quarter when Ward caught an 8-yard touchdown pass from tight end Elijah Arroyo. The play showcased Miami’s versatility and ability to keep defenses guessing, even when their passing attack isn’t at full strength.


Florida State’s Struggles Continue

For Florida State, the loss continued what has been a dismal season. The Seminoles now sit at 1-7 overall and 1-6 in ACC play, with no real sign of improvement. Despite some early flashes from Kromenhoek, the Seminoles couldn’t find a consistent offensive rhythm. They were only able to put together one meaningful drive in the first half and a late touchdown in the fourth quarter when backup quarterback Brock Glenn connected with wide receiver Malik Benson for a score in the final 18 seconds.


The loss also raised more questions about the future of the program and how it will rebuild from such a difficult season. Florida State, once a powerhouse in college football, has struggled to maintain relevance in recent years, and this latest defeat only deepens their challenges moving forward.


Miami Solidifies Its Status as Florida’s Best Team

With the victory, Miami improved to 8-0 on the season and 4-0 in ACC play, continuing their dominance over in-state rivals. This season, the Hurricanes have beaten Florida, Florida A&M, South Florida, and now Florida State, making a strong case for being the best college football program in the state. Their sweep of the Florida teams has given them momentum as they push toward the postseason.


The win also bolstered Miami’s national reputation, keeping them in the running for a potential College Football Playoff berth. With a perfect record, the Hurricanes remain one of the few undefeated teams in the country, and their dominance in rivalry games has captured the attention of fans and analysts alike.


Looking Ahead: Crucial Matchups for Miami and Florida State

Miami’s path forward includes a critical matchup against Duke next week at Hard Rock Stadium. The game will not only be significant for the Hurricanes’ continued pursuit of an ACC championship but will also mark the return of former Miami head coach Manny Diaz, who is now the defensive coordinator for Duke. Miami will need to stay focused as they prepare for what promises to be another challenging game.



On the other hand, Florida State’s season continues to spiral downward. The Seminoles will look to regroup when they host North Carolina next week, hoping to salvage what has been a frustrating season. With the team’s struggles mounting, the next few games could be pivotal in shaping the future of the program.

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