Miami Stays at the Top in Florida Power Rankings After Week 3

Miami Retains Top Position in Florida Power Rankings After Week 3

After a dominant 62-0 victory over Ball State on Saturday, Miami holds onto the top spot in the Florida Power Rankings for week three. The Hurricanes showcased their superiority with a staggering 750 to 115 advantage in total yards. Cam Ward was exceptional, racking up over 300 yards and four touchdowns by halftime, while Ball State focused on stopping the run.

Central Florida has cemented its place as the second-best team in Florida following week three. The Knights made a dramatic comeback from a 31-13 deficit in the third quarter to win 35-34 at TCU, earning their first Big XII victory. Miami and UCF are currently the only unbeaten FBS teams in Florida.

South Florida is the only other team in Florida with a winning record at 2-1. The Bulls are set to face the Hurricanes on Saturday at 7 PM, with the game broadcast on ESPN or ESPN 2. This matchup could be the most significant game in Florida for the 2024 season.

South Florida recently triumphed 49-24 over Southern Mississippi, following a close game against Alabama where they lost 42-16 despite Alabama needing three late touchdowns. The ESPN Football Power Index gives Miami an 85.2 percent chance of winning against South Florida.

Current Rankings:

1. Miami (3-0)
2. Central Florida (3-0)
3. South Florida (2-1)
4. Florida Atlantic (1-2)
5. Florida (1-2)
6. Florida International (1-2)
7. Florida State (0-3)

Florida Atlantic’s 38-20 victory over Florida International in the Shula Bowl places the Owls fourth in the rankings, surpassing Florida and Florida International. Miami’s win over Florida in the season opener remains the only instance of a Florida FBS team defeating another in the 2024 season.

Miami is expected to continue enhancing their resume in future games. Meanwhile, Florida and Florida State are facing significant hurdles. Gators’ coach Billy Napier’s future is uncertain, with a board meeting scheduled for Sunday, while Florida State’s hopes for a College Football Playoff berth have faded after their 0-3 start.

Both Central Florida and Miami have strong chances for a College Football Playoff berth. ESPN’s Football Power Index gives Miami a 52.6 percent chance and UCF a 37.4 percent chance of making the CFP. Miami and UCF are anticipated to remain the top teams in Florida throughout the rest of the 2024 season.