The No. 5 Miami Hurricanes did exactly what a top-five team is supposed to do against an overmatched opponent, dismantling Bethune-Cookman 45–3 on Saturday night at Hard Rock Stadium. With the win, Miami improves to 2–0 following their statement upset over Notre Dame in Week one.
Quarterback Carson Beck put his stamp on the program’s history books, opening the game with 15 straight completions, a new Miami single-game record. He finished a clinical 22-of-24 passing for 267 yards and two touchdowns, both hauled in by CJ Daniels in the first half. Ten different receivers got in on the action, with Malachi Toney leading the way with six catches for 80 yards, while Daniels posted 73 yards and two scores.
Beck’s efficiency wasn’t lost on head coach Mario Cristobal. “Every week, he’s showing growth. He’s hungry to get better, and it’s all about the team with him,” Cristobal said after the game.
Miami’s offense was equally sharp on the ground. Mark Fletcher Jr. scored twice, once from 16 yards out and again on a short plunge to open the second half. CharMar Brown added a bruising two-yard touchdown, and freshman Girard Pringle Jr. broke loose for a 30-yard score in the fourth quarter to cap a complete rushing effort.
By the time Emory Williams relieved Beck midway through the third quarter, the Hurricanes had already found the end zone on all five of their opening drives. Williams kept the offense humming, completing 8 of 12 passes for 86 yards and leading two more scoring series.
The defense, even without starting linebacker Wesley Bissainthe after a first-series targeting call, locked down the Wildcats. The first-team unit allowed just a single field goal on six drives, forcing a critical turnover when Rueben Bain Jr. strip-sacked Bethune-Cookman quarterback Timmy McClain in the third quarter. Cam Smith pounced on the loose ball to end the threat.
The reserves contributed too, with freshman safety Bryce Fitzgerald intercepting a pass in the end zone during the fourth quarter. Miami piled up 10 tackles for loss, highlighted by nickel corner Keionte Scott’s three stops behind the line.
Rising Young Talent
This matchup was especially valuable for Miami’s younger players and reserves, many of whom seized the opportunity to shine.
Malachi Toney — Already playing like a seasoned vet, the true freshman hauled in six catches for 80 yards and looks like Carson Beck’s favorite target.
Bryce Fitzgerald — The freshman safety picked off his first career pass, building on the snaps he earned against Notre Dame. He’s quickly proving himself as a future star in the secondary. See the play here.
Samson Okunlola — After battling injuries his first two seasons, Okunlola is finally healthy and showing why he was so highly recruited. He’s put together back-to-back dominant performances, grading out as Miami’s second-best lineman against Bethune. Analysis clip here.
Brock Schott — The freshman tight end had two catches for 24 yards, showcasing his physicality and ability to rack up yards after the catch. Expect his role to grow. Highlight here.
Kellen Wiley Jr. — Making his debut, Wiley led the defense with five tackles, a strong showing for the true freshman linebacker.
Marquise Lightfoot — Another defensive newcomer who impressed, finishing with four tackles and one tackle for loss. He’s already flashing the traits of Miami’s next great edge rusher.
Girard Pringle Jr. — The speedy back scored his first career touchdown on a 30-yard run and finished with 36 rushing yards on just two carries. Miami’s running back depth looks frightening with Fletcher, Lyle, Brown, and now Pringle.
The win pushed Miami to 8–0 all-time against Bethune-Cookman and set the stage for an early-season showdown. Next week, the Hurricanes welcome 2–0 USF, fresh off victories over then-No. 25 Boise State and a dramatic upset of No. 13 Florida in Gainesville. With both teams ranked, Hard Rock Stadium is set for another high-stakes in-state battle.
For Cristobal’s squad, the formula was simple: take care of business, rest the starters, and keep building momentum. Mission accomplished.
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