For Miami Hurricanes defensive lineman Rueben Bain Jr., the upcoming rivalry game against the Florida Gators is a chance for redemption. A Miami native with deep ties to the program, Bain’s last encounter with the Gators at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium ended abruptly when he was injured on the opening drive. He could only watch from the sidelines as his teammates secured a 41-17 victory.
Now healthy, Bain has become a cornerstone of Miami’s defense. He leads the team with 15 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, an interception, and a forced fumble. He is eager to contribute fully in the latest installment of the heated rivalry.
“It was very frustrating,” Bain said of his injury last season. “But last year was last year. We’re just focused on this year and I’m super excited for the chance to just go out there and play football again. [I’m] very healthy, [and can] just play the brand of football that I want to play.”
The significance of the matchup is amplified by national attention, with both ESPN’s College GameDay and the ACC Huddle broadcasting from the showdown. The Hurricanes understand that despite Florida’s recent form, the game presents a unique challenge.
The Gators (1-2) enter the contest on a two-game losing streak, with recent defeats to USF and LSU causing them to fall out of the national rankings. The loss in Baton Rouge was particularly tough, as quarterback DJ Lagway threw five interceptions. However, Miami is not underestimating its opponent, recognizing that Florida will be motivated to upset the Hurricanes at Hard Rock Stadium and salvage their season.
“The part that has to be respected most is their talent level, their coaching, their size, speed, physicality,” said Miami head coach Mario Cristobal. “Schematically, they’re very challenging… It’s very clear they’re an extremely talented team, they’re well coached, they play hard, and for us, it’s a great opportunity.”
Running back Mark Fletcher Jr. echoed his coach’s sentiments, acknowledging the talent on the other side of the ball. “I’m pretty sure those guys, they’re coming here to play football,” Fletcher said. “That’s a very well-coached team. Those guys fly around. [They’re] extremely talented on both sides of the football. So, we just have to be on our A-game and we’re ready for the challenge.”
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