Miami is expected to start freshman Emory Williams against No. 4 Florida State on Saturday. Here’s what you need to know:
- Williams replaces fourth-year junior Tyler Van Dyke, who has struggled with turnovers over his last four starts. Van Dyke threw three interceptions in last week’s loss at NC State and has thrown 10 interceptions over his last four appearances. A source close to Van Dyke confirmed the news of Williams starting.
- Williams started in Miami’s 28-20 double-overtime win against Clemson and completed 24 of his 33 attempts for 151 yards, a touchdown and an interception. He’s 36 of 48 passing for 295 yards on the season.
- Van Dyke split first-team reps this week with Williams, a source close to Van Dyke said. Until last week’s struggles, Cristobal had always stood behind Van Dyke as Miami’s starting quarterback.
Can Williams get the job done?
Beating Florida State on the road is a tall task. The Seminoles have one of the best pass defenses in the country. Florida State ranks fourth in pass efficiency defense. The Seminoles are allowing only 6.3 yards per attempt (18th) and have six interceptions compared to four touchdown passes allowed. FSU ranks 16th in scoring defense and 30th in yards per play allowed. FSU is plus-7 in the turnover margin and protects the ball well on offense with veteran quarterback Jordan Travis.
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(Photo: Megan Briggs / Getty Images)
