Miami Football: 2018 Game-by-game predictions

Miami and FIU are two schools separated by nine miles, but for the first time since 2007, they will meet on the gridiron. The last meeting resulted in a 23-9 Hurricane win. The 2006 first time ever meeting became famous due to the bench clearing brawl that broke out during the 35-0 Miami win.

An interesting subplot to this one is former Hurricane coach Butch Davis is entering his second year as coach of the Panthers. He compiled a record of 51-20 in his six seasons in Coral Gables from 1995 to 2000.  In his first season at FIU last year, the Panthers went 8-5 but Davis will need to replace several key parts across an offense ranked 74th in the country in scoring. The defense  was not very good either, giving up over 400 yards per game.

This is a game the Hurricanes should win easily. Again, the Miami offense will still be finding its footing this early in the season but the defense will be stout again. The turnover chain will make several appearances with the defense forcing two fumbles and two interceptions to go along with five sacks. The run game wears down an inexperienced FIU defense, with Travis Homer picking up 150 yards an three scores. Miami finishes the non-conference schedule undefeated.

Final: FIU 10, Miami 35 (4-0)