The ACC’s top two passers battled strong fast defenses and displayed more growth than expected. Drew Weatherford made a huge statement against Miami. He is a legit QB and showed tremendous poise. Even more importantly, he has FSU back in the national title picture. Maybe title hopes were dashed for Miami tonight, but Kyle Wright should help the Hurricanes create some noise throughout this season.

Through the first three quarters, Weatherford’s stats were unimpressive against the great defense played by Miami most of the night. It was in the final two minutes of the third quarter that things turned around. He moved the Seminoles down the field setting up a game tying touchdown.

Kyle Wright played a heck of a game and doesn’t deserve the blame for the loss. With a little more help from his line and receivers, he would have been able to give the Hurricanes more of a chance. A lot can be said for the losses Miami has due to suspensions.

Neither quarterback seemed to be rattled by the pressure or the crowds this time around. Last year was a sloppy game full of stories about inexperience and immaturity. The second year starters looked light years ahead of last year. Maybe it was in the incomplete passes that they showed their greatest growth as they avoided sacks and interceptions most of the night by effectively throwing the ball away. Neither forced too many passes. These two programs have been missing playmakers in recent years and may have them now in Weatherford and Wright.

In the end, this game came down to a field goal. The field goal was Florida State’s, and it was GOOD. Okay, there were 8 minutes to go in the game so the pressure wasn’t the same. However, the pressure is always high for Seminole kickers when facing Miami.

The only tests remaining for FSU are home games September 16^th against Clemson and November 25^th against Florida. Don’t expect another 5 loss season from these Seminoles. Quite another story will unfold. Should Florida hold true to there expectations, that November 25^th match-up could have serious national title implications for both teams.

Miami played their toughest game of their schedule but face a long battle with a loss on the record. However, early losses against strong teams can be overlooked should it be the only loss. There is a very real chance that Florida State and Miami play again in November for the ACC championship, so Miami will have a chance to avenge this loss. More to come from these teams.