Miami vs. Florida is officially ranked as the sixth non-conference game of the 2025 college football season by college football pundit Greg McElroy. On his show, Always College Football, McElroy discussed why the in-state rivalry is more than just a show; it’s a turning point for both programs, especially with possible playoff ramifications at stake.
Greg McElroy’s justification Since 1987, Miami and Florida have not met yearly, but when they do, it’s thrilling. Overall, Miami has a slight 30–27 advantage. Although the rivalry has always been fierce, Miami dominated the 2024 encounter, defeating Florida 41–17 in Gainesville. The upcoming iteration is equally hyped as the previous one, regardless of the outcome.
The September 20 encounter is not anchored in Week 1 or Week 2 and falls later in the non-conference schedule. Both teams will be prepared for fight, have a few games under their belts, and have a ton of resume-building potential, McElroy stressed.
McElroy emphasized Miami’s 2024 triumph, pointing out how Florida responded with DJ Lagway’s late push and how Cam Ward made an early statement. In addition to ending a rivalry, this game has an impact on recruitment pipelines, particularly as both teams vie for supremacy in the Sunshine State.
While Florida opens with LSU in Week 2, Miami’s 2025 non-conference schedule heats up early with Notre Dame (Aug. 31). However, McElroy pointed out that the in-state rivalry is particularly noteworthy.
Behind transfer quarterback Carson Beck, Miami coach Mario Cristobal sees this game as an opportunity to establish the team as a serious playoff contender. It will be critical for Miami to either build on a significant victory or bounce back from a difficult Week 1 loss, depending on the outcome of the game against Notre Dame. After losing last year, it offers Florida a high-reward chance to recover and show their mettle.
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