The road to the 2020 FBS national championship begins with the NCAA college football kickoff this weekend in Orlando, Fla., live on ESPN.

In only their second matchup this decade, the University of Miami Hurricanes and the University of Florida Gators will meet in neutral territory to reignite this SEC/ACC rivalry.

The Dan Mullen-led Gators are preseason-ranked No. 8 heading into the game, while Manny Diaz’s ‘Canes are unranked but have recent history in their favor—Miami won their most recent meeting in 2013 (21-16) and dominates 5-1 in the series since 2000.

What to Watch
Florida’s experienced wide receivers will meet Miami’s bruising front line. Can Florida QB Feleipe Franks connect with his receivers before the blitz hits? That could be the key to a Gators win.

Look for Miami to establish the run game early on the back of tailback DeeJay Dallas, who averaged a dominating 8.3 yards per carry in 2018. Florida’s run defense allowed 4.3 yards per carry last year, 11th overall in the SEC.

Wild Card: Miami WR Jeff Thomas
After pulling in nearly 20 yards per reception over his previous two seasons, Thomas will line up with a new starting QB this season. Will they find a rhythm?

And for those keeping track, this game pits former Mississippi State head coach Mullen against his former two-time defensive coordinator. There’s no doubt the energy will be electric.

Are you ready for some football? Catch the action at 6 p.m., August 24, on C Spire TV ch. 200.

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