In a dramatic Saturday night showdown at Hard Rock Stadium, the No. 3 Miami Hurricanes held on to defeat longtime rival Florida State 43‑35 after double overtime. The win keeps Miami’s ACC record at 6‑0 and marks their seventh victory in the last ten meetings with the Seminoles.
Key performances
Quarterback Darian Mensah was the catalyst, completing 23 of 34 passes for 326 yards and three touchdowns. His final score came on a three‑yard pass to Malachi Toney in the second overtime period. Toney also contributed 11 catches for 154 yards and two touchdowns, and threw a two‑point conversion pass to Cooper Barkate after his overtime score.
Running back Javian Mallory rushed for 108 yards and two touchdowns, including a crucial score in the first overtime. Mark Fletcher Jr. added another rushing touchdown for Miami.
For Florida State, quarterback Ashton Daniels threw for 298 yards and four touchdowns. Wide receiver Duce Robinson caught two touchdowns, highlighted by a 75‑yard reception that tied the game with 2:49 left in regulation.
Turning points
The Seminoles lost their top rusher, Ousmane Kromah, to a left‑leg injury early in the second quarter, limiting their ground game. Florida State also saw a potential game‑tying play called back after a holding penalty on a fourth‑and‑21 conversion attempt.
In the final moments of the second overtime, Miami safety Bryce Fitzgerald secured an interception on the last play, preserving the Hurricanes’ lead and prompting a jubilant celebration on the field.
Historical context
Miami’s victory extends a recent trend of success against Florida State, with the Hurricanes now winning seven of the last ten matchups. The Seminoles, meanwhile, have struggled on the road, losing 14 straight away games since the 2023 Orange Bowl loss to Georgia and remaining winless in true road games against ranked opponents since 2016.
Looking ahead
Florida State will travel to host Clemson on Oct. 31, seeking to rebound from the loss. Miami returns home to host Pitt on Oct. 24, aiming to build on the momentum from this hard‑fought win.
Original reporting: WPBF (Treasure Coast / Hearst) — read the source article.
