ACC Football Power Rankings, Week 12: Notre Dame holds at No. 1

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Aug 24, 2019; Orlando, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes head coach Manny Diaz and Miami Hurricanes mascot Sebastian lead the team to the field prior to the game against the Florida Gators at Camping World Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Miami Hurricanes (7-1, 6-1)

Grad transfer quarterback D’Eriq King does not get nearly the credit he deserves for being as good as he’s been this season. He threw all four of his interceptions in two games. Those games — Clemson and Pitt — were also his season-lows in completion percentage. The fifth-year senior has the opportunity to set career highs in completion percentage and yards.

As a team, the Hurricanes have the opportunity to close their season with one loss. Miami took two important strides this season. First, they rebounded after a tough loss. Second, they’ve won ugly. Their last hurdle? Finish strong. This week, they play Georgia Tech at home. Hopefully, the Hurricanes remember what the Jackets did last season.

Their last two games are against North Carolina and Wake Forest; neither team has been a defensive juggernaut this season. There is an opportunity here for Miami to turn the corner as a program and not run out of gas. This could be a foundational season for the Hurricanes if they can close out the regular season on a seven-game winning streak.

Who knows what happens next season, but the infrastructure seems to be setting in place. Manny Diaz and the staff have to be excited about the program’s progress.

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