Date: February1, 2025
Location: Watsco Center – Coral Gables, FL
Tip-off: 8:00 PM EST
TV: ACC Network
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish (10-10, 4-5 ACC) travel south to take on the Miami Hurricanes (4-17, 0-10 ACC) in a pivotal conference matchup on Wednesday night. While Notre Dame is looking to extend its winning streak to three games, Miami is still searching for its first ACC victory in what has been a tough season for interim coach Bill Courtney.
The Irish are coming off a hard-fought 71-68 victory over Georgia Tech, a game that showcased their ability to execute in crunch time. Miami, on the other hand, has lost six straight games, including an 82-71 loss to Virginia in its most recent outing. Despite playing at home, the Hurricanes will have to elevate their game on both ends of the floor to avoid another setback.
What’s at Stake?
For Notre Dame, a win would help solidify its push toward the middle of the ACC standings as they continue to build confidence under second-year head coach Micah Shrewsberry. The Irish have been competitive but inconsistent this season, especially on the road (2-5 away record). A victory in Miami would be a significant step in proving they can win in hostile environments.
For Miami, it’s desperation time. The Hurricanes are 0-10 in conference play, and frustration is mounting. Their struggles on the defensive end, where they allow 80.7 points per game, have been their biggest issue. A win at home against a Notre Dame team that has also faced growing pains could provide a much-needed spark.
Key Matchups to Watch
1. Markus Burton vs. Nijel Pack
Notre Dame’s Markus Burton (20.4 PPG, 4.3 APG) continues to be the go-to scorer for the Irish, showing off his ability to break down defenses and create shots both for himself and his teammates. Miami will counter with Nijel Pack (13.9 PPG, 3.0 RPG), who has missed time this season but remains one of the Hurricanes’ most dynamic playmakers. Burton’s ability to push the tempo and find open shooters could be the deciding factor in this one. Miami needs Pack to be aggressive early and often to keep pace.
2. Notre Dame’s Three-Point Shooting vs. Miami’s Perimeter Defense
Notre Dame shoots 37.9% from beyond the arc, with Braeden Shrewsberry (36.7% 3PT) and Matt Allocco (48.6% 3PT) providing serious perimeter threats. Miami has struggled defending the three-point line, allowing opponents to hit 39.6% of their attempts. If Notre Dame finds a rhythm from deep, it could be a long night for the Hurricanes. Miami’s defense will need to close out hard and contest every shot to limit Notre Dame’s biggest offensive weapon.
3. Rebounding Battle: Tae Davis vs. Matthew Cleveland
Notre Dame has a slight rebounding edge, averaging 35.6 RPG compared to Miami’s 32.0 RPG. Tae Davis (5.4 RPG)and Kebba Njie (6.3 RPG) will be tasked with keeping Miami’s second-chance opportunities to a minimum. Miami’s Matthew Cleveland (15.7 PPG, 4.4 RPG) is their top scorer and a capable rebounder, but he will need help from his frontcourt teammates to neutralize Notre Dame’s presence on the glass.
X-Factors
- Notre Dame’s Road Play: The Irish have struggled away from South Bend, going 2-5 in road games this season. Can they bring the same energy in an arena that has been tough on visitors?
- Miami’s Urgency: The Hurricanes are still searching for their first conference win. Will desperation push them to play with more intensity, or will frustration lead to another collapse?
- Turnover Battle: Both teams average just over 10 turnovers per game, meaning possessions will be valuable. If Miami can force Notre Dame into uncharacteristic mistakes, they could stay competitive.
Miami’s defensive struggles make it difficult to see them pulling off the upset, even at home. Notre Dame’s ability to stretch the floor with three-point shooting and control the rebounding battle should allow them to dictate the pace. Expect the Hurricanes to fight hard, but ultimately, Notre Dame’s efficiency and composure should carry them to victory.
Final Score Prediction: Notre Dame 74, Miami 67
Check out Len Clark's full statistical breakdown at the Len Zone!