Jeff's 2022 ACC (Coastal) Spotlight Team
Miami Hurricanes (2021: 7-5 SU, 6-6 ATS)
The Hurricanes get a major bump up this season thanks to former Ducks' head coach Mario Cristobal taking over on a 10-year, 80 million dollar contract. He led Oregon to a 35-13 record from 2017-2021, winning multiple conference championships. Tyler Van Dyke should improve after taking over for D'Eriq King, who went down with a season-ending shoulder injury in game one last season. The ACC rookie of the year finished the season with six straight games of at least 316 passing yards and three passing touchdowns, highlighted by a 426-yard performance as he out-dueled Heisman Trophy finalist Kenny Pickett to upset the than ranked No. 17 Pittsburgh Panthers. Miami should have no trouble replacing their top two receivers as offensive coordinator Josh Gattis has lots of experience breaking in new talent. The Hurricanes' defense should be much improved especially in the secondary where all three freshmen return. Miami was ranked No. 56 in FEI rankings (see below) at Football Outsiders and I'm expecting about a 15 point jump this season. Fremeau Efficiency Index ratings (FEI) are opponent-adjusted possession efficiency data representing the per-possession scoring advantage a team would be expected to have on a neutral field against an average opponent.
Miami Hurricanes best bet: Over 8 wins -140
There is potential for the Hurricanes to win at least 10 games. They have a tough schedule at the end of the season with the likes of Clemson and Pittsburgh. They do get the Panthers at home. If the offensive line improves (#96) like I think they will, the Hurricanes will cash Over 8 wins rather easily.
Jeff went 14-6 in College Football last season documented at The Sports Monitor of OK. Early Bird Packages now on sale!
Twitter: @jhsportsline