It wouldn’t be a shock to see Miami capture its first national championship in 24 years. But .<\/b>
\nIt wouldn\u2019t be a shock to see Miami capture its first national championship in 24 years.
The Hurricanes\u2019 potential has been clear since their season-opening win over Notre Dame. In recent weeks, the defense has raised the ceiling, holding Texas A&M to three points in front of 104,000-plus, then silencing defending champion Ohio State with five sacks and two interceptions.
But Miami hasn\u2019t faced a more difficult test this season \u2014 its lone opponent with a top 15 offense was led by a freshman making his first career start \u2014 than the balanced Rebels attack, averaging nearly 37 points per game.
Trinidad Chambliss has been the most dynamic offensive force in the playoff, and has averaged more than 327 passing yards in his past five games, with 13 total touchdowns, one interception, and a 74.0 completion percentage.
The dual threat\u2019s elusiveness \u2014 and an offensive line that ranks in the top 20 in sacks allowed \u2014 will limit the impact of the Hurricanes pass rush, and running back Kewan Lacy, the nation\u2019s third-leading rusher, keeps the playbook unpredictable.
Miami\u2019s No. 50 offense isn\u2019t equipped to keep pace, led by a historically error-prone game manager (Carson Beck), whose top weapon (Malachi Toney) has shrunk in the playoff, averaging 19 receiving yards, with three fumbles.
The pick: Ole Miss (+3.5)Betting on College Football? Miami-Ole Miss Fiesta Bowl staff picks
Chris Shaw: Ole Miss
Zach Braziller: Miami
Ted Holmlund: Ole Miss
Erich Richter: Ole Miss
Stitches: Ole Miss
Ethan Sears: Ole Miss Why Trust New York Post Betting
Howie Kussoy has long been the New York Post\u2019s main handicapper in college basketball (since 2011) and college football (since 2013).<\/p>\n