By Craig Fields
Game Info
Miami Hurricanes vs #18 Louisville Cardinals
Saturday – December 28 – 5:45 PM
TV: ESPN
Florida Citrus Bowl – Orlando
Significance: This bowl game will be showcasing the very talented and polarizing figure, Teddy Bridgewater. The junior quarterback for the 18th ranked Louisville Cardinals might be playing in his last game as a Cardinal before possibly being the number one overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft. He is an extremely interesting and exciting player to watch.
Miami Hurricanes
With the defense of the Hurricanes being the weak point of this program, quarterback Stephen Morris of the Hurricanes will have to pull out every playmaker bone in his body to keep this game close. He is a dual threat quarterback who can extend plays with his legs and deliver a strike with his strong and powerful arm. Running back Duke Johnson, who averages 6.2 yards per carry will not be able to play this game due to a season ending injury he suffered against Florida State earlier this year. Senior wide receiver Allen Hurns (6’3), has over 1100 yards receiving and a 19.0 yards per catch average, will probably be the Morris’ number one target.
#18 Louisville Cardinals
Even though Teddy Bridgewater is a dynamic quarterback, the defense is arguably the most important asset that the Cardinals possess. They are third in the nation allowing opponents to score 12.4 points per game. Senior defensive end, Marcus Smith, who was second in the nation with 12.5 sacks, knows how to get to the quarterback quickly and often. Bridgewater, is predominantly a pocket passer that who can make all the throws and has an NFL arm and talent already. The big question is whether or not the junior will take the next leap. This bowl game could be a statement for both the senior and the junior.
Prediction: Cardinals will hold their on defense and shred Miami when on offense. Louisville 38 – Miami 17
