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No. 15 Miami Faces Dangerous NC State With Playoff Hopes Dependent on a Sweep

The ACC’s highest-ranked team enters its home finale with backfield uncertainty after NC State’s upset-fueled surge.

Overview

  • Miami is 7-2 (3-2 ACC) and must win its final three games to stay in contention for the College Football Playoff and the league title.
  • NC State is 5-4 (2-3) following a bye and a 48-36 takedown of previously unbeaten Georgia Tech.
  • Quarterback C.J. Bailey has thrown for 2,411 yards with 19 touchdowns and seven interceptions, and his 158.3 passer rating ranks second in the ACC.
  • Running back Hollywood Smothers leads the Wolfpack with 825 rushing yards at 6.9 yards per carry and a league-high 103.1 yards per game.
  • Miami lists top tailback Mark Fletcher Jr. as doubtful after missing Syracuse, freshman Girard Pringle Jr. stepped in with 55 yards and a touchdown, the Hurricanes expect linebacker Wesley Bissainthe to return, and NC State’s defense is allowing 4.15 yards per carry (12th of 17 ACC teams).