USA TODAY Sports predicts a Florida win in Week 1 over Miami

College football’s Week 1 is almost underway and sports media has been submitting its final predictions ahead of the opening kickoff, including a Sunshine State matchup between the Florida Gators and Miami Hurricanes.

USA TODAY Sports writer Jordan Mendoza submitted his take for the season-opener in the Swamp, favoring the Orange and Blue over the ‘Canes.

“There’s no better candidate to lose their job than Billy Napier,” Mendoza begins.

“The Gators have been underwhelming in his two seasons and with one of the most daunting schedules in the country, safe to say it won’t be an easy season in Florida,” he continues. “However, Florida will get some punches in and it’ll start with a season-opening win.

“Graham Mertz actually had a solid 2023 and he should take another step against an unknown Miami defense. The Swamp will be rocking and the Gators have taken down a ranked opponent at home in the first month of the season in each of Napier’s two seasons. Make it three seasons in a row to give Napier some confidence.”

Florida’s season opener for 2024

The Florida and Miami square off on Aug. 31 in Gainesville, Florida to open their schedule for the 2024 season. Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on ABC Sports.

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