Appalachian State vs Miami will take place at Kidd Brewer Stadium on Saturday. Here are three things you need to know and how to watch the game online.
Just in terms of program pedigree, Appalachian State vs Miami is a titanic mismatch. Sure, the Appalachian State Mountaineers have a huge upset to their credit nine years ago and FCS glory. However, they are still a relatively fresh FBS team trying to become something more. Meanwhile, Miami is “The U” and one of the most lauded programs in the country. Program pedigree won’t be the deciding factor on Saturday, though, as the Hurricanes travel to Kidd Brewer Stadium.
App State already has a near-upset in the record books for 2016, falling just short of knocking off Tennessee in their opener. As they welcome by far the biggest opponent ever to visit their home field, though, this could be far different. Miami on the other hand is looking to continue climbing the rankings. At 2-0, they’ve reached the top-25 in the polls. Now they’ll seek another quality road victory against a frisky team like the Mountaineers.
With that out of the way, here are the three things you need to know about this game.
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1. As stated, Miami is the biggest opponent to ever visit Kidd Brewer Stadium. If you don’t think that there’s going to be an absolutely massive home-field advantage in Boone, NC, think again. The question here, though, is if Miami will be shook by this type of environment. Moreover, you have to wonder how App State will respond to playing host to such an opponent and if they’ll crack under such pressure.
2. Winning the rushing battle will be key in this matchup. Hurricanes running back Mark Walton has 32 carries for 271 yards and five touchdowns already in 2016. Meanwhile, Appalachian State’s Marcus Cox has 42 carries for 248 yards and three touchdowns along with five catches for 42 yards and another score. Whichever team is able to get their featured back going with the greatest of ease will have a decisive edge.
3. The Brad Kaaya hype-train once again returned for the 2016 season and the first season under Mark Richt. It’s been underwhelming on the way to 2-0 once again for Kaaya, though. Considering how tough the Mountaineers played Joshua Dobbs of Tennessee, the Miami quarterback has to remain poised. If he doesn’t step up and be a leader, this Mountaineers team has the talent and coaching to wreak all kinds of havoc.
Saturday’s game will be broadcast on ESPN. Live streaming will thus be available through WatchESPN. Log in online or through the ESPN app using a cable or satellite subscription to access the service.
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Details for Saturday’s game are below:
Date: Saturday, September 17
Start Time: Noon ET
Location: Boone, NC
Stadium: Kidd Brewer Stadium
TV Info: ESPN
Live Stream: WatchESPN
After falling short in their first upset-bid of the season, Appalachian State vs Miami affords the Mountaineers another shot. This time on their home turf, will they be able to get the job done?