The Bethune-Cookman Wildcats will make a 3.5-hour trip south on I-95 to face the Miami Hurricanes for the opening game of the season. Al Golden needs to come out of the gate hot to quiet the critics. Below is the Miami vs. Bethune-Cookman prediction and game preview. 

Miami vs. Bethune-Cookman Prediction & Preview

Why You Need To Care

As patience for Miami’s Al Golden wears thin, the coach will begin this season needing to pilot his Hurricanes beyond the mediocrity that’s typified the program of late. The Canes lost last year’s final four games to finish under .500, and now must replace many of last year’s top performers. They open with the MEAC’s Bethune-Cookman, which is led by rookie head coach Terry Sims.

Why Bethune-Cookman Will Win

The Wildcats won nine games in 2014, and promoted Sims from within, so a drop-off is not expected. The team deftly uses a pair of quarterbacks, Quentin Williams and Larry Brihm, and welcomes back last season’s top eight rushers, including former Cane Danny Dillard.

Why Miami Will Win

The B-C backfield is good by FCS standards. But it can’t hold a candle to what the Canes are featuring. Brad Kaaya is one of the top young quarterbacks in the country, and he’s supported by a group of receivers playing with something to prove. Plus, backs Joseph Yearby and Gus Edwards form an eclectic tandem that’ll batter the Wildcats with long runs.

Player Who Matters

After being shuffled like a deck of cards throughout the offseason, the Miami O-line will start 2015 with a lot of unanswered questions. RG Danny Isidora is the lone returning starter of a unit that could hold the key to the Hurricanes’ fortunes. If the group hiccups at all on Saturday, it could be a brutal sign for what’s ahead.

What’s Going To Happen?

It’s a good thing Miami opens with an FCS opponent, because the team isn’t quite ready to face top competition. The Hurricanes must address myriad issues, particularly along the lines. Kaaya will be sharp in a comfortable win, while Edwards and Yearby combine for 175 yards and two scores.

Miami vs. Bethune-Cookman Score Prediction

And the Miami vs. Bethune-Cookman prediction is …

Miami 42, Bethune-Cookman 7

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