Posted by NoleCC

By Bill Kristoph

Yes folks, it’s time once again for the renewal of the best rivalry in college baseball; Florida State and Miami. You had better enjoy it too, because when ACC play begins next year for Miami, the annual 6 game series will be cut back to 3. So get ready to gear up, head to Dick Howser Stadium, and enjoy what is sure to be a great series.
The match-ups
Miami’s Offense vs. FSU’s Defense:
The ‘Canes hold the advantage here. FSU has had a case of bobblitis all season. Miami is hitting .326 as a team, slugging .527, and the ‘Noles have a very mediocre .952 fielding percentage.
Advantage: Miami

Miami’s Offense vs. FSU’s Pitching:
Opponents are only hitting .240 against ‘Nole pitching. The starters look good, and the bullpen has held up recently. The real question is can the defense field the ball when the ‘Canes put it in play?
Advantage: FSU

FSU’s Offense vs. Miami’s Defense:
Defense wins ball games. Unless the ‘Noles “hit it where they ain’t” all weekend, the Hurricanes have the advantage.
Advantage: Miami

FSU’s Offense vs. Miami’s Pitching:
The ‘Noles are hitting .301. Miami’s opponents are batting .244. Will the big inning strike for the Seminoles or will Miami shut FSU down like N.C. State did in their 11-0 victory? Will the crowd rattle Miami pitchers?
Advantage: Push, since it’s a home series.

Intangibles:
It’s a home series for the Seminoles. They play well at home. The crowd will be juiced. The bat girls will jog for foul balls. And there will be t-shirts thrown into the crowd. I also suspect a full stadium N-O-L-E-S cheer will be heard a few times.
Advantage: FSU

Prediction:
Miami takes 2 out of 3 against the ‘Noles.

Overall the ‘Noles are only 4-6 against the Top 25 this season and 0 for everything against anyone in the Top 10. Is it a slow start to a potential surprising year? Will the ‘Noles finally gel and use wins over Miami to springboard into contention for Omaha? Check back with ScalpEm.com throughout the weekend to find out!

TV:
Friday, Sunshine Network, 7pm
Sunday, Sunshine Network, 1pm

Radio:
All three games will be broadcast on WFLA 1270 AM in Tallahassee.