Miami vs. Cincinnati Prediction, Game Preview

The Cincinnati Bearcats (2-2) have lost 11 straight to the Miami Hurricanes (3-0), last winning in 1947. Check out the Miami vs. Cincinnati prediction and game preview.

Miami vs. Cincinnati Game Preview

Broadcast

Date: Thursday, October 1

Game Time: 7:30 ET

Network: ESPN

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Why You Need To Care

Miami is leaving the state of Florida for the first time in 2015, facing a Cincinnati team it has historically dominated. The Hurricanes, who were off last week, are closing in on the Top 25, but are unlikely to crack it until they take down a quality opponent. Unfortunately for the Canes’ resume, the Bearcats no longer qualify. The preseason favorite in the American has already lost two games, to Temple and Memphis, as well as QB Gunner Kiel for the time being. Both schools get an opportunity on national TV to showcase their progress before conference play continues.

Why Miami Will Win

The Cincinnati defense is taking a beating this fall, allowing an average of 40 points in three games with FBS opponents. Enter the Canes, which have yet to be held under 36 points this season. And their balance of Brad Kaaya’s tight throws and the running of Joseph Yearby will prevent the Bearcats from keying on one specific area. Cincy isn’t generating a consistent enough pass rush to knock the precise Kaaya off his rhythm on Thursday.

Why Cincinnati Will Win

True, Kiel is out after getting hammered in the Memphis loss, but the offense appears to be in good hands with redshirt freshman Hayden Moore. Moore relieved Kiel last week to throw for a school-record 557 yards and four touchdowns. And he’ll actually have more options than Kaaya, including nine backs and receivers who’ve accounted for at least 165 yards so far. CB Corn Elder has started fast, but Miami doesn’t have the kind of defense that stops the other guy in its tracks.

Player Who Matters

Miami would like to rattle Moore, whose first career start will be on national TV. The Canes have produced nine sacks through three games, though no single pass rusher requires multiple blockers. Coordinator Mark D’Onofrio would like to turn loose strongside linebacker Tyriq McCord, whose ability to anticipate the snap and time his blitz can rattle opposing quarterbacks even when he doesn’t register a sack.

What’s Going To Happen?

The backfield of Kaaya and Yearby aside, there’s nothing overly special about Miami. Good team, but not yet title-caliber. Cincinnati, however, is reeling from injuries and the inability to make defensive stops. Moore has a live arm, but he won’t be able to outduel Kaaya, as the Hurricanes inch closer to a spot at the tail end of the Top 25.