"If the worst case is an improvement, those are really high standards": CFB Insider has "high expectations" from Miami Hurricanes 

College football Insider Josh Pate has big expectations for the Miami Hurricanes this season. He believes that even in a worst-case scenario, the team should show some improvement next season.

Pate predicts that Miami's best possible record is 12-0, with the worst being 8-4, and the most likely outcome an anticipated 11-1.

Pate, host of "The Late Kick Podcast", is confident in coach Mario Cristobal's leadership. In a video posted by CBS Sports College Football on X/Twitter on Monday, he said:

“What's wild 8-4 being their worst case is an improvement record wise over last year.

“They won seven last year… So if the worst case is an improvement, those are really high standards. But I think it's warranted with this team," he added.

According to a JP Poll preseason ranking, Miami stands at No. 18, behind Kansas State (16), Utah (17) and ahead of Clemson (19) and USC (20).

Pate also said Miami should likely secure a spot in the ACC Championship Game:

“I got Miami going 11-1 this year,” Pate said. “And you can make of that what you will because that sends them to the ACC Championship Game. Probably that maker will lock them into a playoff spot regardless of what happens in the ACC Championship game.”

According to Pate, Miami faces a challenging schedule, including a Week 1 showdown in Gainesville and games against three Top 25 teams with playoff odds. Notably, they do have some favorable matchups on their schedule, including a Friday night home game against Virginia Tech on Sept 27.

Pate highlighted that the best-case scenario for Miami this year is 12-0. With a manageable schedule and a talented roster, including a potential Heisman-caliber quarterback, a perfect season could be within reach.

Florida Gators against Miami Hurricanes: Ticket Prices

Miami Hurricanes head coach Mario Cristobal reacts to a call (Image Source: IMAGN)

The Miami Hurricanes and Florida Gators will face off in Gainesville on Saturday, Aug. 31. Mario Cristobal and Billy Napier are both entering their third seasons as coaches of Miami and Florida, respectively.

According to Sporting News, if fans are planning to catch the game in person, tickets are available on StubHub, with prices starting as low as $192. The kickoff time is yet to be announced.

For the Hurricanes, here's a quick look at the coaching staff leading the charge:

• Head Coach: Mario Cristobal
• Offensive Coordinator/QB Coach: Shannon Dawson
• Running Backs Coach: Matt Merritt
• Wide Receivers Coach: Kevin Beard
• Tight Ends Coach: Cody Woodiel
• Assistant Head Coach/Offensive Line Coach: Alex Mirabal
• Co-Defensive Coordinators: Lance Guidry and Derek Nicholson
• Defensive Line Coaches: Joe Salave'a and Jason Taylor
• Defensive Backs Coach: Chevis Jackson

The matchup between both teams is shaping up to be a thrilling start to the season.

Who do you think will win in Week 1 between the Miami Hurricanes and Florida Gators? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.