Miami Defeats Boston College 45-20 in Regular Season Finale, Sets Sights on First Bowl Game Since 2020 Season

In a decisive regular-season finale, the Miami Hurricanes showcased an impressive performance, defeating Boston College 45-20. Quarterback Tyler Van Dyke threw for 290 yards and two touchdowns, while Henry Parrish Jr.’s stellar running added 111 yards and two scores. The victory not only snapped a three-game losing streak for the Hurricanes but also marked their highest point total in a conference game this season.

Van Dyke delivered a noteworthy performance by completing 23 of 36 passes and throwing multiple touchdowns for the first time since October 14. The Hurricanes amassed an impressive 533 yards of total offense, showcasing a well-rounded offensive strategy that included contributions from Xavier Restrepo, Mark Fletcher Jr., Colbie Young, Jacolby George, and Ajay Allen Jr., all of whom found the end zone. Restrepo is now only seven yards shy of becoming the sixth wide receiver to eclipse 1000 receiving yards in a single season at Miami, and George is 149 receiving yards away from accomplishing the 1000 receiving yards feat as well.

Miami opened with a slow start to the game, with Boston College taking an early 7-0 lead. However, a resilient Hurricanes team quickly turned the tide, scoring 28 consecutive points and seizing a commanding 28-7 lead by halftime. Despite a handoff fumble exchange in the third quarter that allowed the Eagles to narrow the gap, Miami regained control and sealed the victory with a balanced offensive attack.

Miami’s defense played a crucial role in securing the win, forcing consecutive three-and-outs on two critical possessions. The Hurricanes held Boston College to 20 points and played a pivotal role in the team’s overall dominance, holding the Eagles to 294 yards of offense. Linebacker Francisco Mauigoa chipped in yet another great performance with nine tackles, two tackles for loss, and one sack. He has recorded 17 tackles for loss through the Hurricanes’ 12 regular-season games in 2023. The defense’s performance, coupled with the offensive resurgence today, bodes well for the Hurricanes as they turn their focus to the bowl season.

The victory not only marked a significant step forward for the Hurricanes on the field but also had broader implications for head coach Mario Cristobal. The win prevented Cristobal from establishing the worst two-year run in the ACC by a Miami coach, tying Randy Shannon’s 6-10 mark in 2007-08. While the Hurricanes faced challenges this season, including a three-game losing streak, the decisive win against Boston College showcased Cristobal’s ability to guide the team to success.

With a 7-5 record, Miami now awaits its bowl destination, aiming for its first bowl win since 2016. The Hurricanes’ turnaround from a 5-7 record last season to a winning record this year is a testament to the progress made under Cristobal’s leadership. Despite facing adversity, including a controversial loss to Georgia Tech, the Hurricanes achieved notable victories over ranked teams like Texas A&M and Clemson this season, and also had close opportunities to win over top-10 ranked teams in Florida State and Louisville. Moral victories won’t matter in the win and loss column, but the Hurricanes are making tangible progress from their 2022 season, which saw numerous blowouts and lopsided scores.

Looking ahead, the bowl game offers an opportunity for Miami to continue building momentum and prove that the program is on an upward trajectory. While some may downplay the significance of bowl games now, for a program with Miami’s rich history and aspirations, every step forward, including a bowl win, contributes to the overall progress of restoring the program to its former greatness.