Three Miami Weaknesses NC State Can Exploit

Miami enters as heavy favorites, but the Hurricanes aren't bulletproof. Their recent performances reveal defensive cracks, concentration lapses, and injury concerns that NC State can absolutely attack.

The Wolfpack has the offensive firepower to make this closer than Vegas expects. If NC State plays smart, aggressive football and forces Miami into uncomfortable situations, an upset isn't just possible, it's plausible.

Banged-Up Secondary Missing Key Pieces

Miami's secondary just lost a massive piece heading into Saturday. Star cornerback Keionte Scott is out with a lower extremity injury, removing the team's best defensive player from the equation.

This couldn't come at a worse time, facing CJ Bailey, who's been lighting up defenses all season with his arm talent and decision-making.​

Without Scott, Miami's depth gets tested against a quarterback who thrives throwing downfield. Bailey has racked up over 2,400 passing yards with 23 total touchdowns this year, showing he can beat you through the air consistently.

Expect NC State's offensive coordinator to attack Miami's backup corners early and often. The Wolfpack should take vertical shots to test the replacements' speed and ball tracking. If Bailey finds rhythm early, Miami's secondary could crack under pressure as the game progresses. The absence of Scott changes everything about this matchup.​

Defensive Inconsistency Against Balanced Attacks

Those aren't flukes; they're red flags showing Miami struggles when opponents execute balanced offensive attacks.​​

Hollywood Smothers gives NC State the perfect weapon to exploit this weakness. The explosive running back has been NC State's workhorse, and Miami's defense tends to overcommit trying to stop the run.