Three Stars: Miami vs USF

The #5 ranked Miami Hurricanes handled #18 USF today/tonight at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, FL, 49-12. Whoa. That was a beatdown, and the Canes probably left a score or two out there. With a second win over a ranked team, Miami should be in the top three tomorrow, but we’ll see.

Let’s get to the three stars of the game.

1. Mark Fletcher Jr.

Fletch was truly Miami’s lead back tonight. Numbers: 16 rushes, 121 yards, 3 touchdowns, 2 receptions, 25 yards. He set the tone in the first half. He ran hard on every carry. He had great ball security. He got every yard he could. He was a plus in the passing game. He looked as good as he ever has in a Miami uniform. I was disappointed not to see Jordan Lyle on the field tonight, but that disappointment was eclipsed by my excitement of how well Mark Fletcher Jr. played.

2. Rueben Bain Jr.

Bain is one of Miami’s best defensive leaders in recent memory. I love how he plays. I love how much he cares. I love how he gets his teammates going. He is awesome. I wish he would come back for next season. Stop it Mike! Don’t be greedy! Enjoy him while you can! Okay, will do. The future NFL first round draft pick led the Canes in total tackles tonight with 6. He had a TFL and a pass defended. Besides the stats, he was chasing USF quarterback Byrum Brown in the backfield on a consistent basis. I love having Rueben Bain Jr. on the college football team I root for.

3. Carson Beck

I know, Beck committed Miami’s first two turnovers tonight. Whatever. One interception was a tipped ball and the other one was a great play by the USF defender. I love what I am seeing from Miami’s new signal caller so far this season. His numbers: 23-28, 340 yards, 3 touchdowns, 28 rushing yards, 1 rushing touchdown. It doesn’t get much better than that. I love how Beck led the Canes down the field for that opening drive touchdown, then did it again after USF’s first punt. Going up 14-0 was huge and Beck’s command of the offense was a big reason why.

Honorable mention:

Joshua Moore - Miami’s big freshman wide receiver target broke out today with 2 receptions for 47 yards, both going for touchdowns.

Malachi Toney - The explosive young freshman continues to impress. He finished with 6 receptions for 66 yards. He also came oh-so-close to returning a punt for a touchdown.

Jakobe Thomas - I love how this dude plays. He comes up and hits, is smart, and is a sure tackler. He finished with 4 total tackles today. Great pickup by Coach Cristobal for the defense.

Who were your three stars of the game? Let us know in the comments below.

GO CANES!

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