Stanford Cardinal vs Miami Hurricanes Picks and Predictions January 22nd 2025

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Stanford is set to host Miami on Wednesday night, riding high after a monumental 72-71 victory at North Carolina last weekend. The game represents a tale of two programs moving in opposite directions within the fiercely competitive Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).

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Stanford Riding High in the ACC

The Cardinal (12-6, 4-3 ACC) have been formidable at home this season, boasting a 9-1 record. Their recent victory at North Carolina not only stunned the basketball world but also highlighted their growing potential in their first year in the ACC.

Head coach Kyle Smith underscored the challenge of proving themselves in their new conference. “In the ACC, you’re not going to get any breaks. You have to earn your respect,” Smith said.

Key to Stanford’s success is center Maxime Raynaud, who leads the ACC with 20.8 points and 11.6 rebounds per game. Raynaud, last year’s Pac-12 Most Improved Player of the Year, has already notched 11 games with 20 or more points this season. His inside dominance, paired with guard Jaylen Blakes’ knack for clutch performances, makes Stanford a tough opponent. Blakes, averaging 14.8 points and 5.3 assists per game, hit the game-winning jumper against North Carolina with just 1.5 seconds left.

Miami’s Uphill Battle

On the other end of the spectrum, Miami (4-14, 0-7 ACC) has been struggling under interim coach Bill Courtney, who took over after Jim Larranaga’s unexpected retirement last month. The Hurricanes have dropped seven straight games, with the last four losses by double digits. Most recently, Miami suffered a humiliating 117-74 defeat to SMU, the second-highest point total ever allowed by an ACC team in a conference game.

Miami’s defense has been a major concern, allowing opponents to shoot 49.5% from the field — one of the highest yields in the country. Injuries have further hindered the Hurricanes, with leading scorer Nijel Pack (13.9 points per game) sidelined since December due to a foot injury. Guard Matthew Cleveland, a transfer from Florida State, has tried to pick up the slack, averaging 13.8 points per game, but the team’s overall struggles continue.

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Player Matchups to Watch

The matchup will likely hinge on how Miami handles Stanford’s Raynaud. Miami’s frontcourt has been vulnerable, making it difficult to contain elite big men. On the perimeter, Blakes’ playmaking will test Miami’s defensive rotations, while Cleveland’s ability to create offense could keep the Hurricanes competitive.

Stanford also brings an edge in rebounding and interior scoring, which could exploit Miami’s defensive gaps. If the Hurricanes are to stand a chance, they must tighten up defensively and find consistent offensive production beyond Cleveland.

A Crucial Game for Both Teams

For Stanford, this game is an opportunity to solidify their place as a rising power in the ACC and build on their recent success. A victory would further validate their presence in the new league and keep them in contention for postseason play.

For Miami, the game represents a chance to break a losing streak and demonstrate resilience amid adversity. Interim coach Courtney remains optimistic despite the team’s challenges. “We’ve preached and preached about fighting through adversity, but when you’re 18 to 22 years old, it can be hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel,” Courtney said. “I think that’s what’s happened to us.”

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Conclusion

The game between Stanford and Miami showcases two teams at very different stages of their ACC journeys. Stanford’s momentum and home-court advantage position them as the favorites, but Miami has an opportunity to surprise if they can tighten their defense and find offensive rhythm. Basketball fans can expect an intriguing clash as these programs continue to navigate the challenges of ACC competition.

By Rick Bouch | February 15, 2025
By Kody Miller | October 28, 2024
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