Cam Akers and Nyqwan Murray on historic FSU-Miami rivalry

Miami week.

Players, coaches, and fans all know the significance of the week leading up to that one day a year. There are few rivalries in the sports world that can match the intensity that the Seminoles vs the Hurricanes brings to the table.

Despite the deep-rooted hatred, players recognize that every year it is going to be a battle. The ‘Canes are favored heavily going into this weekend, and a lot of that has to do with a Hurricane defense that isn’t allowing much from opposing offenses. Running back Cam Akers, noted their aggressive style of play, but says the ‘Noles have what it takes to match them.

“Just how aggressive they are,” Akers said. “Just the aggressiveness that they play with and the tenacity that they play with. They definitely got a lot of dog about them, but we got a lot of dog about us too, though. So, just go and play football.”

Last year, as a freshman, Akers had his breakout game in the loss against the Hurricanes, totaling 121 yards on 20 carries. Yet to turn in a similar performance in his sophomore campaign, Akers says the rivalry is an opportunity to make a name for yourself.

“Big games, big rivalry,” Akers said. “Two in-state teams. Arguably two of the most prestigious teams in college football. So, this game is always one for the books. It’s a historic game—a game you can make a name for yourself off of.”

A senior, disappointed in last year’s loss, wide receiver Nyqwan Murray talked about how important going out with a win over Miami is to him and other seniors on FSU’s roster.

“It’s big, especially for me,” Noonie said. “I’m a senior and I know it’s big for the other seniors too, to go out with a win against Miami. Losing to these guys, having to hear it all year, everybody talking crazy, I’m not trying to deal with that this year.”

Something more unbearable than having to hear it from Miami fans for a whole year, was losing the seven game win streak the ‘Noles held over the Hurricanes from 2010-2016.

“I know we lost the streak last year, “ Murray said. “I forgot what the streak was, but we have to get the streak back going and rolling.”

Had the Seminoles emerged victorious last year, it would have been their eighth straight win, breaking their own record for most consecutive wins (seven).

Before heading to practice, Murray ribbed the ‘Canes a bit when he was asked if he was ever recruited by them.

“Yeah, I think so.”

When asked if he considered going there.

“Nah,” Murray said. “I went there and saw their dorms and I said, nah, I know I’m not going here.”