Andrew Spivey, Gentry Hawk, and Nick Marcinko preview Florida’s week four matchup at No.4 Miami with our roundtable discussion, where we discuss keys to the game and give our score predictions.
What are the keys to Florida’s offense vs Miami?
AS: Florida has got to run the ball better so that the entire offense isn’t on Lagway’s shoulder. Lagway is struggling and the run game needs to be the focus.
GH: The biggest key for Florida’s offense will be if DJ Lagway can settle in and be the quarterback we’ve known him to be prior to this season. We haven’t seen Lagway live up to his expectations in 2025, and the mistakes haunted Florida offensively against LSU. Miami’s front four is also a huge issue, and Florida’s offensive line must hold their ground if Lagway wants to take the next step this weekend and command Florida’s offense. Let Lagway work behind Florida’s run game and keep your defense off the field this weekend.
NM: Florida won’t win very many games this season if sophomore quarterback DJ Lagway can’t find his rhythm and successfully work through his progressions. Miami will emphasis stopping Florida’s ground attack and force Lagway and the Gators’ offense to beat them through the air. The defense alone will not be able to beat a team like Miami.
What are the keys to Florida’s defense vs Miami?
AS: Copy the LSU game, when I say that, I mean get pressure on the quarterback and stop the run. When doing that it will force Carson Beck into making quick decisions and I like Florida’s chances if that happens.
GH: The key for Florida’s defense this weekend will be how often the pass rush can cause problems for Carson Beck and one of the best offensive lines in the country. Opposing receivers have had way too much separation against Florida’s defensive backs, and if the Gators can’t continue to make things hard for opposing quarterbacks, Miami could have a field day.
NM: Florida has to stop Miami’s strong running game and force Miami quarterback Carson Beck into third and long. Life has been easy for Beck to this point behind a great offensive line. If Florida can neutralize the ground game, they give themselves a fighting chance as the secondary has played well to this point.
Give me one player you want to see receive more playing time in week four?
AS: Amir Jackson is a guy that I want to see play more and see if he can get some production from the tight end position. Jackson is a guy who could help Lagway in some pressure moments.
GH: I want to see Aidan Mizell get more playing time this weekend. I truly think Aidan Mizell is one of the best receivers on this team and can make magic happen when he gets the football. Billy Napier and this staff need to find a way to get him the ball more.
NM: Wide receiver Aidan Mizell appears to have the best connection with DJ Lagway on the field and deserves more playing time as a result. Mizell has only logged 32 snaps in two games this season but has made the most of his opportunities with five catches for 59 yards and a touchdown. Mizell got ‘banged up’ after his touchdown catch vs LSU but is good to go vs Miami in week four.
Other keys to victory?
AS: Florida has to win the turnover margin in this game to have a chance.
GH: I’ll keep saying it until it changes. The penalties and mental mistakes have to vanish if Florida wants to get a taste of any success or consistency on offense this football season. Don’t turn the ball over and limit the penalties.
NM: Florida simply has to play a clean game if they want to upset Miami. Limit the turnovers and penalties. The Canes are too good to be given additional opportunities.
Florida is 7.5-point underdogs at Miami. Provide your score prediction.
AS: 31-14 Miami
GH: 24-17 Miami
NM: 34-13 Miami