‘Canes Must Not Overlook Toledo

Before Mark Richt and his staff took over the program, this game would seem like a probable loss. Any time the ‘Canes would play an inferior opponent, we would fear that we’d play down to them, and give them chances to beat us in the end.

This happened against Cincinnati, as the ‘Canes traveled to Nippert Stadium, and lost in disappointing fashion by only scoring 3 points in the second half. This game in particular gave the “Fire Al Golden” movement even more momentum, as the Canes had no business in losing that contest.

Moving along to Appalachian State in 2016 however, the ‘Canes arrived in Boone, NC, and showed us the right way to deal with a hyped-up, but inferior opponent. 45-10 was the final of that contest, after many people put Miami on upset-watch before the game.

That mindset is the one Miami’s staff and players must possess when Saturday comes around.

Score quick, score fast, and quiet the hopeful crowd. We can assume it’ll be a sell-out, and that Toledo will come out fired up. What gives me confidence in winning, is that Miami has been in situation before.

Last season, the Canes let outmatched teams hang around for fat too long - some even having a chance to win. But despite it being close, we still found a way to win. If this is the case, the ‘cardiac’ Canes may have to make an appearance. However, with the talent on this team, that shouldn’t be the case, but it’s definitely possible.

Regardless, this game will be a good test, as Toledo led at the half of last year’s matchup. The ‘Canes though will look to strengthen their momentum heading into conference play. It’ll be a hostile environment, and they’ll be facing an air-attack that gave them fits a season before.

In a perfect world, we’ll see our offensive line gel, a solid performance by Malik Rosier, and a defense that shuts down Toledo’s receivers. With that said, what we see Saturday will give us a good idea of what’s to come for the remainder of the season.