Florida State football vs. Miami is a game that needs no introduction.
Seminoles head coach Mike Norvell said it is a great challenge and opportunity for FSU as they prepare for the undefeated Hurricanes (7-0). Coming off a 23-16 loss vs. Duke , the first in program history , Norvell said his team has responded well early on heading into Miami week.
In a season with very little positive , Norvell said it's important to show up on Saturday against No. 6 Miami as these are the games players are remembered for.
"When you come into this week, it's different. I'm not one of these coaches to say every game is the same. I love these games," Norvell said. "I love the fact we get to be a part of it. No matter what, people will remember this game. These players, they have the opportunity to compete in it, be a part of it."
"This game, the tradition, rivalry, you go back throughout all the years. No matter where you're from, the country is still going to be watching what happens in this game. I definitely am excited for our guys."
"For the guys that are new to the program and maybe this is their first opportunity for them to go and have this experience. I'm excited to see our guys go pour everything they have to showcase who we are and what we are all about."
FSU enters the game as a 20-point underdog to Miami.
The Hurricanes lead the nation in total offense with 577.3 yards per game, holding the second-best scoring offense with 48.3 points per game.
FSU's defense allows opponents on average 370 yards per game and 25 points.
The Seminoles ' defense had one of its stronger performances this season vs. Duke, allowing 180 yards of total offense and just over three yards per play. It will take a similar, and likely better effort to contain a fast and physical Miami offense.
Quarterback Cam Ward has thrown for 2,538 yards this season, the most in the country, and he has been the catalyst of the high-powered Miami offense.
Norvell said that Ward is one of the best quarterbacks in the country and that he presents a unique challenge to the FSU defense.
"He's playing at an elite level, as good as any quarterback in the country," Norvell said. "You see the confidence and the poise, he's able to extend plays. He's done a good job in being able to find receivers on rhythm and on time."
"He's playing as good as any quarterback that's out there and we know we have a great challenge in front of us this week."
While results have been poor this season, Norvell said this is a game that is prepared for all year. It's a chance for the Seminoles to earn a statement win even in an extremely down year.
It will likely take a perfect game from FSU to have a chance at upsetting the Hurricanes. Norvell said there is an extra focus on preparation for the rivalry games vs. Miami and Florida.
"This is a huge week for our football program," Norvell said. "This game is a game we have an emphasis on 365 days a year. We are fortunate to be at a place where we get two rivalry games every single year that mean a ton to our football program, fan base and university."
"For those two weeks, it's a year-long process to put yourself in the best position for when this week shows up so you can go play your best."
"That's something that is an absolute necessity for us this year."
CORRECTION: The headline on an earlier version of this story had a misspelled word. It has been corrected.
Liam Rooney covers Florida State athletics for the Tallahassee Democrat. Contact him via email at LRooney@gannett.com or on Twitter @__liamrooney
This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: FSU football's Mike Norvell preparing for "different" week vs. Miami
