The Miami Hurricanes showed once again why they remain one of college football’s most resilient programs, defeating the Florida State Seminoles 28–22 in a thrilling ACC Week 6 matchup. It was a night of offensive precision and defensive grit as Miami quarterback Carson Beck showcased poise and leadership, throwing for four touchdown passes—two apiece to Malachi Toney and CJ Daniels—as the Hurricanes kept their College Football Playoff dreams alive.
This victory not only solidified Miami’s dominance in the ACC standings but also reinforced head coach Mario Cristobal’s growing confidence in a program that continues to look more complete each week. Florida State, despite flashes of competitiveness, could not overcome Miami’s balance, falling to 4–2 on the season and leaving head coach Mike Norvell searching for answers after another close loss in conference play.
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First Quarter: Beck’s Commanding Start
From the opening drive, Carson Beck made it clear that Miami intended to attack vertically and push the tempo. On their second possession, Beck orchestrated a 75-yard drive capped by a 19-yard touchdown strike to Malachi Toney, who beat single coverage down the sideline. The precision of Beck’s throws and his command of the pocket were reminiscent of a seasoned veteran quarterback, not one still adapting to a new offensive system.
The Hurricanes’ offensive line gave Beck ample time to read the defense, and his chemistry with his receivers was undeniable. Florida State’s secondary, led by cornerback Greedy Vance Jr., struggled to contain Miami’s passing attack. Miami led 7–0 midway through the first quarter and never relinquished the lead.
The Seminoles tried to respond quickly, relying heavily on running back Trey Benson, who provided early energy with a series of explosive runs. However, Miami’s defensive front, anchored by Rueben Bain Jr. and Leonard Taylor III, closed gaps effectively, forcing Florida State to settle for a long field goal attempt that drifted wide.
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Second Quarter: Daniels Emerges as a Go-To Target
The second quarter belonged to CJ Daniels, who turned in a performance that will be remembered by Hurricanes fans for seasons to come. With 10 minutes left in the half, Beck connected with Daniels on a quick slant that turned into a 42-yard touchdown after Daniels broke two tackles and sprinted into the end zone.
That score put Miami up 14–3, and the crowd inside Hard Rock Stadium erupted as the Hurricanes began to assert dominance in all three phases.
Florida State’s offense responded with a sustained 10-play drive that culminated in a one-yard rushing touchdown from Jordan Travis, cutting the deficit to 14–10. But Beck remained undeterred. On the ensuing drive, Miami’s offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson called for a series of play-action passes that kept the Seminoles’ linebackers guessing. Beck capped the drive with another touchdown to Daniels, this time a 25-yard fade that showcased his touch and accuracy.
At halftime, Miami led 21–10, and the Hurricanes’ body language showed a team in full control of its destiny.
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Third Quarter: Defense Defines the Moment
The Hurricanes’ defense, often overshadowed by Beck’s offensive fireworks, played a crucial role in preserving the lead. Linebacker Francisco Mauigoa delivered a standout performance, leading the team with 10 tackles and a key third-down sack early in the third quarter that halted a promising Seminoles drive.
Florida State began to find rhythm in the passing game, with Johnny Wilson hauling in several key receptions to move the chains. But when the Seminoles reached the red zone, Miami’s defense tightened. Kam Kinchens, Miami’s All-American safety, intercepted a pass in the end zone, snuffing out a potential game-changing drive and giving momentum right back to the Hurricanes.
On the next possession, Beck once again demonstrated why he is being discussed as one of the top quarterbacks in the ACC this season. Facing 3rd-and-8 from midfield, Beck delivered a strike to Toney across the middle for a 22-yard gain. Two plays later, he found Toney again in the corner of the end zone for a 16-yard touchdown—his fourth passing score of the evening.
Miami extended its lead to 28–13 and looked poised to put the game away.
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Fourth Quarter: Florida State’s Late Push
The Seminoles, however, refused to go quietly. Jordan Travis led a determined fourth-quarter comeback attempt, connecting with Keon Coleman for several clutch receptions. Florida State closed the gap to 28–22 after Travis found Jaheim Bell for a 12-yard touchdown with 4:17 remaining.
Suddenly, the energy inside the stadium shifted. Florida State attempted an onside kick, but Miami’s special teams recovered, allowing the Hurricanes to maintain control. Beck and the offense methodically ran down the clock, leaning on running back Henry Parrish Jr., who finished with 95 rushing yards and several crucial first downs to secure the victory.
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Carson Beck’s Leadership Shines
Beck’s final stat line was outstanding: 24-of-32 passing for 326 yards, four touchdowns, and no interceptions. What impressed most was his composure under pressure. Every time Florida State appeared ready to swing momentum, Beck responded with a precise throw or smart read that kept Miami ahead.
Since taking over the offense, Beck has provided the Hurricanes with a rare blend of accuracy, confidence, and calm. His chemistry with Toney and Daniels has transformed Miami’s aerial attack into one of the most dangerous in the ACC.
Offensive coordinator Dawson praised his quarterback after the game:
> “Carson has the type of poise you can’t teach. He trusts his receivers, he studies the defense, and he executes. That’s what leaders do.”
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Defensive Discipline and Special Teams Execution
While Beck and the offense rightfully drew headlines, Miami’s defense deserves equal recognition. The Hurricanes limited Florida State to just three points through most of the first half and forced two turnovers, including Kinchens’ red-zone interception and a forced fumble by Bain Jr. that prevented another Seminole scoring opportunity.
On special teams, Miami executed flawlessly. Andres Borregales converted all extra-point attempts and consistently pinned the Seminoles deep with precise kickoffs.
Cristobal commended the unit postgame, saying:
> “Our special teams have been disciplined, and our defense has been relentless. You can win championships with that type of balance.”
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Implications for the ACC and Beyond
This victory pushes Miami to 6–0 overall and 4–0 in ACC play, keeping them firmly in the conference title race and possibly within striking distance of the College Football Playoff conversation.
The Hurricanes have now defeated three ranked opponents in six weeks, with their offensive output steadily improving each game. Beck’s seamless integration into the offense, combined with the consistency of the defense, has made Miami one of the most complete teams in college football.
For Florida State, the loss drops them to 4–2, and while their playoff hopes may have taken a hit, the Seminoles remain dangerous. Their offensive inconsistencies and inability to protect Travis in key moments remain areas of concern heading into the latter part of the season.
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Looking Ahead
Miami now turns its attention to next week’s matchup against North Carolina, another strong ACC opponent. The Tar Heels’ aggressive pass rush will test Beck’s decision-making, but if Miami continues to execute with this level of balance, they’ll remain a legitimate title contender.
Florida State, meanwhile, faces Louisville in what could be a pivotal game for restoring confidence and reasserting their dominance in the Atlantic Division.
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Conclusion
The Hurricanes’ 28–22 win over Florida State wasn’t just another rivalry triumph—it was a statement that Miami is back among the elite. Carson Beck’s four-touchdown performance underscored his growth and leadership, while Malachi Toney and CJ Daniels reminded the ACC that Miami’s offense can strike from anywhere on the field.
Defensively disciplined, offensively explosive, and mentally resilient, the Hurricanes have reestablished themselves as a powerhouse capable of running the table in the ACC.
As Coach Cristobal put it in his postgame remarks:
> “We play for moments like this. We’ve built this team to fight, to finish, and to believe—and tonight, we showed exactly who we are.”
Final Score: Miami 28, Florida State 22 — Hurricanes Remain Unbeaten and roaring in the ACC Title Race
