Will Manso's prediction on UM vs FAU

Hurricanes take on Owls in Boca Raton

MIAMI – The Hurricanes' season-opening win over Bethune-Cookman was neither overly impressive or surprising.  That's a little unfair since they won 45-0, but let's be honest, that kind of game was to be expected.

If anything was surprising, it's that Miami's defense pitched a shutout, which is the first in the Al Golden era at the University of Miami.

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Now the 'Canes have a different challenge, and while also not expected to be too difficult, at least FAU should have some more offensive firepower.

My takeaway from the opener is that the 'Canes defense really does have some solid players.  When in the proper position -- always a huge if with this unit of late -- they should be pretty good.

Owls quarterback Jacquez Johnson has enough ability to run this diverse offense well. Case in point, the 44 points scored in their opener against Tulsa.

Yes, I know, Tulsa isn't exactly a good measuring stick for an offense, but they do have weapons and creativity.

That said, UM will dominate. An electric home crowd (still likely 75 percent Miami fans) and the national spotlight on a Friday night might give FAU some confidence early.

That should wane quickly when the 'Canes start putting up points. Despite having no Stacey Coley or Braxton Berrios, those points should come early and often, led by Brad Kaaya.

And, oh yeah, let's see some more Corn Elder all over the field.

Prediction: 'Canes win, 48-17.

Season prediction record: 1-0

Follow Will Manso on Twitter @WillManso

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