The Miami Hurricanes triumphed over the Florida Gators with a 41-17 victory, breaking a 22-year drought in Gainesville. Quarterback Cam Ward, a key transfer from Washington State, impressed with 385 passing yards and three touchdowns in his debut, silencing over 90,000 Gators fans. This victory is significant for Miami's head coach Mario Cristobal, who has faced criticism after a mixed record in previous seasons. The Gators struggled against Miami's strong pass-rush duo and a revamped offensive line. This game marks the renewal of an intense in-state rivalry, with both teams seeking to regain their former elite status.