TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Quarterback Byrum Brown ran for two touchdowns, Keshaun Singleton caught a 45-yard touchdown pass on a fake punt and South Florida routed No. 25 Boise State 34-7 on Thursday night in the opener for both teams.
South Florida beat a Top 25 opponent for the first time since topping then-No. 22 Navy 52-45 on Oct. 28, 2016. The Bulls had lost 18 straight against ranked teams.
“I told our team last night that this is going to be a display of our identity,” South Florida coach Alex Golesh said. “We’ve worked. We’ve got a bunch of seniors that have been through a lot. Some that are in their sixth year here.”
Brown was 16 of 24 for 210 yards and added 43 yards on the ground. Cartevious Norton had an 8-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter.
Singleton had five catches for 93 yards and a touchdown, and Chas Nimrod had receptions for 96 yards.
Boise State’s Maddux Madsen was 25 of 46 for 225 yards with a touchdown pass to Chris Marshall. Boise State lost three fumbles and failed to convert on fourth down three times in USF territory. Latrell Caples led Boise State with four catches for 58 yards.
“Whoever wins the turnover margin and wins the explosive battle, it’s like 98% of the time you win the game — college or NFL,” Broncos coach Spencer Danielson said. “We were not explosive enough on offense. We’ve got to look and see why. ”
Boise State will certainly drop from the Top 25 and will likely have to win out to get back in the playoff conversation. The Broncos will have a chance to impress voters when they face Notre Dame on Oct. 4.
South Florida will face two more ranked opponents — Florida and Miami — before their conference schedule begins.
Fake punt
With South Florida facing a fourth down at the Broncos 45, Golesh decided to sneak backup quarterback Locklan Hewlett in as the punter. The freshman was able to execute the fake punt to perfection, hitting an open Singleton inside the 20 and the receiver broke three tackles from there to get in the end zone.
“We didn’t see that in time and that’s on me,” Danielson said. “And that’s a fake area of the field, in the 40s, and we didn’t execute the right way.”
Remembering Abdul-Rahim
Golesh began his press conference by honoring former South Florida basketball coach Amir Abdul-Rahim, who died on Oct. 24, 2024, of complications from a medical procedure. Abdur-Rahim led the Bulls team to a school-record 25 wins and an AAC regular-season conference championship in his only year as coach.
“He was one of the coolest, greatest men that I’ve been around. I was only around him for a year and a half. I quoted Amir (to the football team after the game), ‘This ain’t the same old South Florida anymore’ and I truly believe that.”
TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Dawn Staley has never lost a national championship game in three trips as South Carolina’s coach.
Part of the key to winning those decisive games? Forgetting about what happened the last time she was there. And this time, that was only a year ago.
Staley’s defending champion Gamecocks left no doubt they would return to the title game, getting 14 points from Te-Hina Paopao and overwhelming Texas 74-57 on Friday night in the Final Four of the women’s NCAA Tournament.
“Nothing that happened prior to here is going to help us on Sunday. Nothing,” Staley said. “Saying that we’re undefeated in national championships games — I wish it helped. I wish it would spot us 10 points because we’re undefeated. I’d feel really good about that.”
The Gamecocks are a win away from becoming the first team to secure consecutive titles since UConn won four straight from 2013-16. The Huskies faced UCLA in Friday’s second semifinal.
Freshman Joyce Edwards added 13 points, 11 rebounds and six assists for South Carolina (35-3), which used its experience and poise to weather an early deficit, and then took control with its depth at both ends of the floor.
Three South Carolina players finished in double figures — Bree Hall had 11 points — and the Gamecocks dominated Texas in the post with 40 points in the paint to the Longhorns’ 22.
Madison Booker had 11 points with three fouls for the Longhorns (35-4), who were trying to reach their first championship since 1986. They were in the Final Four for the first time since 2003 after a dominant season, which was their first in the Southeastern Conference after coming over from the Big 12.
Texas went 15-1 against the SEC in the regular season and shared the conference title with the Gamecocks.
South Carolina broke open the game in the third quarter with an 11-0 run started by Edwards’ driving layup, and Texas never got closer than 10 the rest of the way. Booker, Texas’ leading scorer, was held without a basket after making a jumper at the seven-minute mark of the third.
The Longhorns could not match South Carolina’s pace as the game went on. They only scored nine points in the third, including bad mid-range misses from Booker and Harmon. Harmon, a senior who returned this season from an ACL injury last year, finished with eight points. Jordan Lee led Texas with 16 points off the bench.
“Not our best night tonight,” Texas coach Vic Schaefer said, “but it wasn’t because they weren’t out there battling and trying. We lost to the better team tonight.”
Strength in reserve
South Carolina went undefeated during a dominant championship run last year that featured a physical roster no opponent could match up with. This year’s journey to the final has been slightly more challenging.
Without a star like A’ja Wilson, Aliyah Boston or 6-foot-7 center Kamilla Cardoso — who led the Gamecocks on their previous title runs — they’ve relied on a dynamic rotation to reach their third championship game in four years.
South Carolina leads the nation in bench points and got 35 points from its reserves on Friday, including nine points from Tessa Johnson and seven from Milaysia Fulwiley. Former South Carolina greats Wilson, Boston and Allisha Gray cheered them on from the stands.
Trouble early for Texas
Booker went to the bench with about three minutes left in the first quarter after picking up two fouls. That allowed South Carolina to climb out of a 12-4 hole before the SEC player of the year came back late in the second, made a free throw and checked back out after picking up her third foul. The Gamecocks outscored Texas by 13 with Booker on the bench and took a 38-35 halftime lead.
“Basketball is a game of runs,” Paopao said. “They went on their run. We went on our run. And we came out with the win, so I’m proud of our run.”
This was the teams’ fourth meeting this season — the 17th time two women’s teams have faced each other that many times in a single season, according to Stats Perform. As first-time conference opponents, they split the regular-season series, with each team winning on its home court, before the Gamecocks blew out Texas in the SEC Tournament championship.
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) — Ta’Niya Latson scored 28 points and sixth-seeded Florida State defeated George Mason on Saturday night in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.
Mikayla Timpson had 18 points and 11 rebounds for the Seminoles (24-8), who advanced to play either No. 3 seed LSU or 14th seed San Diego State in a second-round game on Monday night.
Paula Suarez scored 25 points and Kennedy Harris added 12 points for George Mason (27-6), which was making its first March Madness appearance after winning the Atlantic 10 Tournament.
Florida State led by as many as 20 points in the middle of the second quarter, but George Mason pulled within seven when the second of Suarez’s back-to-back 3s made it 49-42.
Florida State coach Brooke Wyckoff called timeout at that point, and the Seminoles responded with a 10-0 run during which O’Mariah Gordon scored five points on a fast-break layup and corner 3.
Jada Brown’s fast-break 3 pulled George Mason back within 10 points at the end of the third quarter, but the Seminoles again pulled away with a 12-0 run to open the fourth quarter.
Sydny Bowles’ fourth 3 of the game began the decisive spurt. Gordon added a pair of layups and Timpson scored twice inside, once while being fouled for a 3-point play.
Gordon finished with 18 points and Bowles with 15 on 5-of-5 shooting from deep.
Takeaways
George Mason: Staying within striking distance through three quarters made for a solid NCAA Tournament debut the Patriots before they faded in the final period.
Florida State: The Seminoles are tournament regulars and looked like it when they dominated down the stretch. Florida State is part of March Madness for a 12th straight time and also has appeared in 19 of the past 20 NCAA Tournaments.
Key stat
Latson, the nation’s leading scorer, eclipsed her average of 24.9 points coming in.
Up Next
Florida State plays in its first second-round game since 2019. The Seminoles have not advanced to the round of 16 since 2017.
STARKVILLE, Miss. (AP) — Denzel Aberdeen had a game-high 20 points and Walter Clayton Jr. added 19 points to lead No. 3 Florida to an 81-68 victory over No. 22 Mississippi State.
Thomas Haugh scored 16 points for Florida (21-3, 8-3 Southeastern Conference) and Will Richard and Rueben Chinyelu each added 10.
Josh Hubbard led Mississippi State (17-7, 5-6) with 19 points while KeShawn Murphy had 18 points and 13 rebounds.
Trailing by one at halftime, Florida exploded on a 17-0 run to open the second half and were never threatened the rest of the way.
The Gators shot 46% for the game and made 14 of 36 from 3-point range.
Mississippi State made 7 of 27 beyond the arc. The Bulldogs had 15 turnovers and outrebounded Florida 43-32.
The first half had seven lead changes and five ties.
Takeaways
Florida: Senior guard Alijah Martin missed his second straight game with a hip injury, despite coach Todd Golden saying Monday he was expected to return. In the opening minutes, Alex Condon suffered a lower-leg injury. Condon is averaging 11 points and a team-best 8.1 rebounds a game.
Mississippi State: The Bulldogs dropped to 2-4 in SEC home games and were also defeated by double digits in their last SEC home games against Missouri on Feb. 1.
Up next
Florida hosts South Carolina on Saturday, while Mississippi State visits Mississippi on Saturday.
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Josh McCray scored his second touchdown of the game on a 9-yard run midway through the fourth quarter to give No. 21 Illinois the lead and the Illini held on to beat No. 14 South Carolina 21-17 in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl on Tuesday.
Illinois’ defense sealed the win by stopping South Carolina (9-4) at the 7-yard line with a little more than three minutes remaining. McCray sealed the victory and helped the Illini run out the clock with a 60-yard run on a third-and-two play from the 15-yard line as Illinois (10-3) closed out the fifth 10-win season in program history and its first since 2001.
“He never looks for outward excuses,” Illinois coach Bret Bielema said of McCray. “He just works hard and does a lot of really good things to make these days happen.”
McCray, named the game’s MVP, rushed for 114 yards on 13 carries and two touchdowns. Luke Altmeyer threw for 174 yards with a touchdown and an interception.
The teams exchanged the lead five times, and neither led by more than one score. Illinois took its final lead on McCray’s touchdown run with 7:29 remaining.
South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers completed 24 of 34 passes for 260 yards and a touchdown for the Gamecocks, who fell short of the fifth 10-win season in program history. He threw a 6-yard TD pass to Joshua Simon in the third quarter for his only score. They could not connect again in the fourth quarter, leading to the critical turnover on downs.
“Obviously, we want to win,” Sellers said. “Some things didn’t go our way tonight. We have to get back to work and focus on next season.”
Oscar Adaway III rushed for 69 yards on 14 carries, including a 36-yard TD run early in the fourth quarter that gave South Carolina a shortlived lead.
Mixed Signals
South Carolina coach Shane Beamer needed to be restrained from pursuing Illinois coach Bret Bielema during a stoppage in the third quarter after Bielema came toward South Carolina’s sideline with his arms extended, a signal to them that he was not happy with a signal given earlier in the game.
Beamer and Beielema confirmed the dispute was over a signal South Carolina’s kick returners gave on a third-quarter kickoff when a player gave the typical signal they would let the ball go over their head and not return the ball. But the Gamecocks not only fielded the kick, but tried a lateral play that ended with a tackle at the 25.
Beamer said he cleared the use of that signal with the Big 12 officiating crew before the game and that it was legal, as long as the returners did not wave their arms like a fair catch. Bielema agreed that returning the kick was not against the rules, but went against the spirit of using that signal to limit injuries on kickoff returns.
Missed Chances
South Carolina had several missed chances that cost the team opportunities to take the lead.
In addition to the failed fourth down conversion late in the fourth quarter, the Gamecocks did not convert on a fourth down play from the 11 yard line in the second quarter when holder Kai Kroeger’s pass to Alex Huntley in the endzone fell incomplete. Kicker Alex Herrera also missed a field goal off the right upright at the end of the second quarter.
The Gamecocks went 2 for 4 in the red zone overall.
“The whole key to this game was finishing,” Beamer said. “We didn’t finish.”
Takeaways
Illinois and South Carolina looked to make program history by winning the 10th game of the season in the Citrus Bowl. Illinois’ experience with the junior Altmeyer under center won the day to hit that mark. But Illinois has one of the youngest roster in the power conferences. So does South Carolina. Sellers put on an impressive display, and the future looks bright for both teams in 2025.
Up next
South Carolina looks to build on its strong finish and six-game winning streak to close the regular season. The Gamecocks will be in Atlanta to face Virginia Tech on Aug. 31 in its opener.
Illinois will look to build on a strong showing this season and open its 2025 season on Aug. 30 against Western Illinois.
TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — A year removed from winning the national championship, Michigan finished its first season under Sherrone Moore with a victory setting the tone for a bright future.
Moore replaced Jim Harbaugh after the former Wolverines coach left for the NFL’s Los Angeles Chargers last winter. He called Tuesday’s 19-13 victory over Alabama in the ReliaQuest Bowl a total team effort that bodes well for the Wolverines moving forward.
“We’ve got a great culture and great kids,” Moore said. “No one person wins a game … no two people. It’s always going to be a team sport.”
Michigan’s defense sacked Jalen Milroe five times and forced three turnovers by the Alabama quarterback. ReliaQuest Bowl MVP Jordan Marshall rushed for 100 yards on 23 carries to help the Wolverines dominate time of possession.
Dominic Zvada kicked four field goals and Davis Warren threw a first-half touchdown pass to Fredrick Moore as Michigan (8-5) finished the season on a three-game winning streak that included back-to-back upsets of rival Ohio State and Alabama.
“We were 5-5 and then we won some games, but it’s not the standard,” Marshall said. “We’re going to be better than this next year.”
Tuesday’s loss ended Alabama’s string of 16 consecutive seasons with double-digit wins. Kalen DeBoer inherited the streak from seven-time national championship-winning coach Nick Saban, who retired after last season.
“Every time you’re in the locker room and you have something like this, it’s disappointing. But I think there’s a lot of things that you take from it,” DeBoer said, reflecting on his first season with the Crimson Tide.
“So to me, it’s a success if we move forward and we take advantage of the lessons (learned this season), even though we don’t want to learn those lessons sometimes, because they’re hard,” DeBoer added. “We’re going to learn from those lessons, move forward and be better next year because of it.”
Milroe shrugged off a disastrous first quarter that was played almost exclusively in Alabama territory during heavy rain that sent many in the crowd at Raymond James Stadium scurrying for cover. The Crimson Tide had a chance to win it in the closing minutes but turned the ball over on downs after driving to the Michigan 15.
Milroe lost two fumbles and threw an interception on three of Alabama’s first four drives. The fourth possession ended badly, too, with Milroe being sacked for an 11-yard loss at the Crimson Tide 44 on fourth-and-4.
Michigan, however, was able to turn the blunders into only 16 points — Warren’s TD pass to Moore and field goals of 45, 30 and 21 yards for a 16-0 lead.
Milroe cut into Alabama’s deficit with a 25-yard TD pass to Robbie Ouzts, then ran for 41 yards and threw to Germie Bernard for 40 on back-to-back plays to set up Graham Nicholson’s 24-yard field goal just before halftime.
Michigan defense made the narrow halftime lead stand until Zvada’s 37-yard field goal put the Wolverines up 19-10 midway through the fourth quarter. Alabama countered with Nicholson’s 51-yarder to make it a one score game again with 4:38 to go.
Milroe finished 16 of 32 passing for 192 yards, one TD and an interception.
Warren was 9 of 12 for 73 yards without an interception before limping off the field after being sacked early in the third quarter. Alex Orji finished up at quarterback for the Wolverines.
Takeaways
Michigan pressured Milroe all day long, and the Crimson Tide never fully recovered from the quarterback’s early mistakes.
Up next
Michigan: Opens next season on Aug. 30 at home vs. New Mexico following a highly anticipated competition for the starting quarterback job. The nation’s No. 1 high school recruit, Bryce Underwood, practiced with the Wolverines for the ReliaQuest Bowl and was on the sideline Tuesday as an early enrollee. The competition also will include Fresno State transfer Mikey Keene.
Alabama: The Crimson Tide opens their second season under DeBoer on the road on Aug. 30 at Florida State. One question heading into the offseason is who will take the first snap at quarterback. Milroe hasn’t said if he’ll enter the NFL draft or return to school.
TAMPA, Fla. — Sometimes riding a bike is a lot more than just riding a bike. For Nikita Hultin, it’s been a lifeline.
What You Need To Know
After Nikita Hultin moved to the Tampa Bay area, she got a bike from Bikes for Christ to get to work
The nonprofit’s founder says Hultin part of an increase their seeing in bike donations to women
Bikes for Christ has helped thousands of people throughout Hillsborough, Pinellas, Polk and Pasco counties
“It was there when I needed it,” Hultin said. “Just when I needed it. Like perfect timing.”
Before she got the bright red bike, Hultin was mentally in a dark place. She struggled for sobriety.
“I wasn’t happy,” Hultin said. “Wasn’t happy with who I was. Who I had become.”
She moved to the Tampa Bay area for a clean start. Hultin got a place to stay. She found a job. Then Bikes for Christ founder Pat Simmons gave her a bike to get to work.
“Man, the blessing that I get for just being able to do this is overwhelming for me,” Simmons said.
His nonprofit recently built a new facility and has given away nearly 400 bikes this year. With the rising cost of living, Simmons said he’s seeing a lot more women request two wheels instead of four. This year, he said they saw a 10% increase in bike donations to women.
“I think it’s a cost thing,” Simmons said. “It just makes more sense for women to go that route as opposed to buying the car, getting the insurance, buying the gas, getting the maintenance on the vehicle. It’s just a cost factor on the vehicle, I believe.”
For Hultin, affordability played a big role. For almost three months, she rode her bike to and from work each day and the journey has helped her through the toughest of times.
She’s happier now.
Just a couple of weeks ago, Hultin bought a car.
“It feels like a great accomplishment too, from not having a place to live, to getting back stable again,” Hultin said.
The fight is not over. Months sober, she is taking it day by day and no, she’s not ditching the bike.
“Oh, it’s still my best friend, don’t get me wrong,” Hultin laughed.
But she is looking forward to the road ahead, and she’s thankful her bike helped her get there.
Bikes for Christ has helped thousands of people throughout Hillsborough, Pinellas, Polk and Pasco counties.
NEW YORK (AP) — Same iconic statue, very different race.
With two-way star Travis Hunter of Colorado and Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty leading the field, these certainly aren’t your typical Heisman Trophy contenders.
Sure, veteran quarterbacks Dillon Gabriel from top-ranked Oregon and Cam Ward of No. 15 Miami are finalists for college football’s most prestigious award as well, but the 90th annual ceremony coming up Saturday night at Lincoln Center in New York City offers a fresh flavor this year.
To start with, none of the four are from the powerhouse Southeastern Conference, which has produced four of the past five Heisman winners — two each from Alabama and LSU.
Jeanty, who played his home games for a Group of Five team on that peculiar blue turf in Idaho more than 2,100 miles from Manhattan, is the first running back even invited to the Heisman party since 2017. After leading the country with 2,497 yards rushing and 29 touchdowns, he joined quarterback Kellen Moore (2010) as the only Boise State players to be named a finalist.
“The running back position has been overlooked for a while now,” said Jeanty, who plans to enter the 2025 NFL draft.
“There’s been a lot of great running backs before me that should have been here in New York, so to kind of carry on the legacy of the running back position I think is great. … I feel as if I’m representing the whole position.”
With the votes already in, all four finalists spent Friday conducting interviews and sightseeing in the Big Apple. They were given custom, commemorative watches to mark their achievement.
“I’m not a watch guy, but I like it,” said Hunter, flashing a smile.
Hunter, the heavy favorite, made sure not to touch it yet.
A dominant player on both offense and defense who rarely comes off the field, the wide receiver/cornerback is a throwback to generations gone by and the first full-time, true two-way star in decades.
On offense, he had 92 catches for 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns this season to help the 20th-ranked Buffaloes (9-3) earn their first bowl bid in four years. On defense, he made four interceptions, broke up 11 passes and forced a critical fumble that secured an overtime victory against Baylor.
Hunter played 688 defensive snaps and 672 more on offense — the only Power Four conference player with 30-plus snaps on both sides of the ball, according to Colorado research.
“I think I laid the ground for more people to come in and go two ways,” Hunter said. “It starts with your mindset. If you believe you can do it, then you’ll be able to do it. And also, I do a lot of treatment. I keep up with my body. I get a lot of recovery.”
Hunter is Colorado’s first Heisman finalist in 30 years. The junior from Suwanee, Georgia, followed flashy coach Deion Sanders from Jackson State, an HBCU that plays in the lower level FCS, to the Rocky Mountains and has already racked up a staggering combination of accolades this week, including The Associated Press player of the year.
Hunter also won the Walter Camp Award as national player of the year, along with the Chuck Bednarik Award as the top defensive player and the Biletnikoff Award for best wide receiver.
“It just goes to show that I did what I had to do,” Hunter said.
Next, he’d like to polish off his impressive hardware collection by becoming the second Heisman Trophy recipient in Buffaloes history, after late running back Rashaan Salaam in 1994.
“I worked so hard for this moment, so securing the Heisman definitely would set my legacy in college football,” Hunter said. “Being here now is like a dream come true.”
Jeanty carried No. 8 Boise State (12-1) to a Mountain West Conference championship that landed the Broncos the third seed in this year’s College Football Playoff. They have a first-round bye before facing the SMU-Penn State winner in the Fiesta Bowl quarterfinal on New Year’s Eve.
The 5-foot-9, 215-pound junior from Jacksonville, Florida, won the Maxwell Award as college football’s top player and the Doak Walker Award for best running back. Jeanty has five touchdown runs of at least 70 yards and has rushed for the fourth-most yards in a season in FBS history — topping the total of 115 teams this year. He needs 132 yards to break the FBS record set by Heisman Trophy winner Barry Sanders at Oklahoma State in 1988.
In a pass-happy era, however, Jeanty is trying to become the first running back to win the Heisman Trophy since Derrick Henry for Alabama nine years ago. In fact, quarterbacks have snagged the prize all but four times this century.
Gabriel, an Oklahoma transfer, led Oregon (13-0) to a Big Ten title in its first season in the league and the No. 1 seed in the College Football Playoff.
The steady senior from Hawaii passed for 3,558 yards and 28 touchdowns with six interceptions. His 73.2% completion rate ranks second in the nation, and he’s attempting to join quarterback Marcus Mariota (2014) as Ducks players to win the Heisman Trophy.
“I think all the memories start to roll back in your mind,” Gabriel said.
Ward threw for 4,123 yards and led the nation with a school-record 36 touchdown passes for the high-scoring Hurricanes (10-2) after transferring from Washington State.
The senior from West Columbia, Texas, won the Davey O’Brien National Quarterback of the Year award and is looking to join QBs Vinny Testaverde (1986) and Gino Torretta (1992) as Miami players to go home with the Heisman.
“I just think there’s a recklessness that you have to play with at the quarterback position,” Ward said.
NEW YORK (AP) — Same iconic statue, very different race.
With two-way star Travis Hunter of Colorado and Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty leading the field, these certainly aren’t your typical Heisman Trophy contenders.
Sure, veteran quarterbacks Dillon Gabriel from top-ranked Oregon and Cam Ward of No. 15 Miami are finalists for college football’s most prestigious award as well, but the 90th annual ceremony coming up Saturday night at Lincoln Center in New York City offers a fresh flavor this year.
To start with, none of the four are from the powerhouse Southeastern Conference, which has produced four of the past five Heisman winners — two each from Alabama and LSU.
Jeanty, who played his home games for a Group of Five team on that peculiar blue turf in Idaho more than 2,100 miles from Manhattan, is the first running back even invited to the Heisman party since 2017. After leading the country with 2,497 yards rushing and 29 touchdowns, he joined quarterback Kellen Moore (2010) as the only Boise State players to be named a finalist.
“The running back position has been overlooked for a while now,” said Jeanty, who plans to enter the 2025 NFL draft.
“There’s been a lot of great running backs before me that should have been here in New York, so to kind of carry on the legacy of the running back position I think is great. … I feel as if I’m representing the whole position.”
With the votes already in, all four finalists spent Friday conducting interviews and sightseeing in the Big Apple. They were given custom, commemorative watches to mark their achievement.
“I’m not a watch guy, but I like it,” said Hunter, flashing a smile.
Hunter, the heavy favorite, made sure not to touch it yet.
A dominant player on both offense and defense who rarely comes off the field, the wide receiver/cornerback is a throwback to generations gone by and the first full-time, true two-way star in decades.
On offense, he had 92 catches for 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns this season to help the 20th-ranked Buffaloes (9-3) earn their first bowl bid in four years. On defense, he made four interceptions, broke up 11 passes and forced a critical fumble that secured an overtime victory against Baylor.
Hunter played 688 defensive snaps and 672 more on offense — the only Power Four conference player with 30-plus snaps on both sides of the ball, according to Colorado research.
“I think I laid the ground for more people to come in and go two ways,” Hunter said. “It starts with your mindset. If you believe you can do it, then you’ll be able to do it. And also, I do a lot of treatment. I keep up with my body. I get a lot of recovery.”
Hunter is Colorado’s first Heisman finalist in 30 years. The junior from Suwanee, Georgia, followed flashy coach Deion Sanders from Jackson State, an HBCU that plays in the lower level FCS, to the Rocky Mountains and has already racked up a staggering combination of accolades this week, including The Associated Press player of the year.
Hunter also won the Walter Camp Award as national player of the year, along with the Chuck Bednarik Award as the top defensive player and the Biletnikoff Award for best wide receiver.
“It just goes to show that I did what I had to do,” Hunter said.
Next, he’d like to polish off his impressive hardware collection by becoming the second Heisman Trophy recipient in Buffaloes history, after late running back Rashaan Salaam in 1994.
“I worked so hard for this moment, so securing the Heisman definitely would set my legacy in college football,” Hunter said. “Being here now is like a dream come true.”
Jeanty carried No. 8 Boise State (12-1) to a Mountain West Conference championship that landed the Broncos the third seed in this year’s College Football Playoff. They have a first-round bye before facing the SMU-Penn State winner in the Fiesta Bowl quarterfinal on New Year’s Eve.
The 5-foot-9, 215-pound junior from Jacksonville, Florida, won the Maxwell Award as college football’s top player and the Doak Walker Award for best running back. Jeanty has five touchdown runs of at least 70 yards and has rushed for the fourth-most yards in a season in FBS history — topping the total of 115 teams this year. He needs 132 yards to break the FBS record set by Heisman Trophy winner Barry Sanders at Oklahoma State in 1988.
In a pass-happy era, however, Jeanty is trying to become the first running back to win the Heisman Trophy since Derrick Henry for Alabama nine years ago. In fact, quarterbacks have snagged the prize all but four times this century.
Gabriel, an Oklahoma transfer, led Oregon (13-0) to a Big Ten title in its first season in the league and the No. 1 seed in the College Football Playoff.
The steady senior from Hawaii passed for 3,558 yards and 28 touchdowns with six interceptions. His 73.2% completion rate ranks second in the nation, and he’s attempting to join quarterback Marcus Mariota (2014) as Ducks players to win the Heisman Trophy.
“I think all the memories start to roll back in your mind,” Gabriel said.
Ward threw for 4,123 yards and led the nation with a school-record 36 touchdown passes for the high-scoring Hurricanes (10-2) after transferring from Washington State.
The senior from West Columbia, Texas, won the Davey O’Brien National Quarterback of the Year award and is looking to join QBs Vinny Testaverde (1986) and Gino Torretta (1992) as Miami players to go home with the Heisman.
“I just think there’s a recklessness that you have to play with at the quarterback position,” Ward said.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Montrell Johnson ran for 99 yards, including a touchdown, and Florida recovered five fumbles in a 31-11 win over Florida State on Saturday.
Jadan Baugh added 81 yards as Florida racked up 235 rushing yards, while DJ Lagway had two touchdown passes to give coach Billy Napier his first victory over the Seminoles in three tries.
The Gators (7-5) wrapped up an impressive stretch to finish November, knocking off ranked opponents in LSU and Ole Miss and picking up a victory over Florida State after starting the season 3-3.
Florida’s defense held Florida State to 79 first-half yards, in which the Seminoles were held to just 2.5 yards per play.
Lawrance Toafili had a 1-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter for Florida State (2-10). The Seminoles dropped all three rivalry games (including Miami and Clemson) by double digits.
TAKEAWAY
Florida: The Gators averaged 6.5 yards per carry in the first half and picked up a dominating, first rivalry win over Florida State to finish off an impressive last three weeks in what was arguably the nation’s toughest schedule.
Florida State: The Seminoles suffered their first season with double-digit losses since 1974, which is two years before Bobby Bowden arrived.
UP NEXT
Florida: Regular season ends, awaits bowl announcements on Dec. 8.
Orlando, Fla. (AP) — Utah forced three turnovers and scored two defensive touchdowns Friday night, including a 60-yard pick-6 by Zemaiah Vaughn, as the Utes snapped a seven-game losing streak with a 28-14 victory over UCF.
The Utes (5-7, 2-7 Big 12) scored all but one of their touchdowns because of turnovers, turning a fumble by UCF quarterback Dylan Rizk on the game’s opening drive into a field goal. Vaughn recorded a pick-6 midway through the second quarter to give Utah a 10-0 lead.
“That was amazing,” Vaughn said. “I’ve been waiting for that my whole career. I’m glad I got it before the season came to an end. We just do what we do every week. Our main goal is to get the offense back the ball. I felt we did a good job of that today.”
Smith Snowden added a second defensive touchdown, returning an interception 13 yards late in the fourth quarter to give Utah a 28-7 lead. It was Utah’s third pick-six in the last two weeks.
UCF outgained Utah 379-198 total yards, but Utah got UCF (4-8, 2-7) off the field, stopping the team on 12 of 18 third downs. The Knights converted on only three of 12 third downs through the first three quarters.
The turnovers put UCF behind on the scoreboard and made it difficult for them to come back.
“You can’t really have turnovers,” UCF offensive lineman Amari Kight said. “Having turnovers makes the game harder to win. Tonight we weren’t able to overcome those things. They were devastating.”
The Knights lost eight of their final nine games this season after starting the year 3-0 and 1-0 in conference play.
Both teams cycled through quarterbacks throughout the season with each team starting four. It was a big reason both teams fell short of preseason expectations that included Utah being picked as the preseason favorite to win the Big 12. Both teams continued to struggle on offense.
Utah’s lone offensive touchdown came on a 15-yard reception from quarterback Luke Bottari to Landen King on one of the first plays of the fourth quarter. That made it 21-7 and a difficult hill to climb for a struggling UCF team.
“It’s very rewarding to see them have a chance to have some positive fruits for their labors,” Utah coach Kyle Whittingham said. “They’ve been working hard week after week and have not much to show for it, for them to show the character and resiliency and ability to have adversity and come back one more time together and put together a game like that was very positive.”
Utah’s Micah Bernard had 87 yards on 22 carries, surpassing 1,000 yards for the season. Bottari completed 13 of 20 passes for 111 yards.
RJ Harvey, ranked fourth in the nation in rush yards entering the game, finished with 119 yards on 20 carries, scoring a touchdown and adding a receiving touchdown late in the fourth quarter.
Rizk finished the game with 118 passing yards, completing only 11 of his 27 passes.
Record-breaking score
UCF coach Gus Malzahn said aside from winning the game and sending his seniors off with a win, the goal was to ensure Harvey set the program’s record for most career touchdowns in UCF history.
Harvey accomplished that with a 5-yard touchdown run late in the second quarter. That gave him 47 total touchdowns in four seasons with the Knights, passing Kevin Smith for the all-time lead. He added a receiving touchdown in the fourth quarter too.
Harvey finished his season with 1,942 total yards and 25 touchdowns. He also completed his first pass for 18 yards in the second quarter.
Uncertain Future
Both Utah coach Kyle Whittingham and UCF coach Gus Malzahn have faced questions about their futures after both teams struggled this season.
Whittingham has hinted at the possibility of retirement after 20 years coaching at Utah. After the game, he said he did not want to speak about his potential future and wanted to leave the focus on his players and the win.
Malzahn refuted rumors he was considering retiring after UCF’s loss last week at West Virginia. When asked about his future following Friday’s finale, he said he was concerned with trying to make the team better.
The takeaway
Utah: The Utes ended their season on a positive note after injuries decimated their quarterback room throughout the season. Utah enters the offseason with questions though as coach Kyle Whittingham has hinted at considering retirement after 20 years with the school.
UCF: The Knights ended a season that started with tons of promise in disappointing fashion. The Knights lost eight of their final nine games, changing offensive playcallers and their defensive coordinator midseason as several key players are set to graduate and leave the program.
Up next
Utah’s season ends at 5-7. The Utes will not play in a bowl game for the first time since 2020, when they opted out of bowl season and since 2013 before that.
UCF’s season ends at 4-8. The Knights missed a bowl game for the first time since going winless in 2015.
GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Alijah Martin had a season-high 32 points with nine rebounds, five assists and two steals, and No. 21 Florida beat Southern Illinois 93-68 on Friday night to extend its home winning streak to 12.
Martin went 11 of 19, including 8 of 13 from 3-point range, and drained four consecutive shots from behind the arc midway through the second half. His career high is 34 points back when he played for Florida Atlantic.
The Gators (6-0) made a season-high 16 shots from 3-point range, their third consecutive game with double-digit treys.
Thomas Haugh added a career-high 19 points to go with seven boards for Florida, which is off to its best start since 2021.
Florida’s Todd Golden coached while the university investigates sexual harassment and stalking allegations.
Ali Dibba led the Salukis (2-3) with 17 points, and Jarrett Hensley added 14.
Takeaways
Southern Illinois: The Salukis played Charleston and Oklahoma State tough this month and looked like they might be in position to exceed expectations under first-year coach Scott Nagy, who won his share of games at Wright State and South Dakota State.
Florida: The Gators played their most complete game of the young season, leading by 21 at halftime and 30 midway through the second.
Key moment
The Gators started slowly before using a 16-0 run over a three-minute span in the first half to build a 35-15 lead. Martin came up huge during the stretch with a dunk, a driving layup and then his second 3 of the night.
Key stat
Florida’s 16 3-pointers are the program’s most since hitting 18 against Texas A&M in 2019.
Up next
Southern Illinois plays Louisiana Tech in Estero, Florida, on Monday, and Florida plays Wake Forest in Kissimmee, Florida, on Thanksgiving.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Kelley Joiner ran for 140 yards and two touchdowns to spearhead a South Florida ground game that amassed 425 yards and six touchdowns in the Bulls’ 59-24 win over Charlotte on Saturday.
South Florida (5-5, 3-3 American Athletic) forced four Charlotte turnovers.
Cartevious Norton capped a 73-yard, 12-play drive with a six-yard run to give Charlotte a 7-0 first-quarter lead. After Ta’Ron Keith evened the game with a 16-yard run for South Florida, the 49ers took the lead again on Stephen Rusnak’s 50-yard field goal with 8:38 left in the first half.
Nay’Quan Wright scored from the 6 and Joiner ran 54 yards for his first touchdown to make it 21-10. Norton scored from the 2 to get Charlotte within 21-17 before USF rolled off 24 straight points.
Wright scored again from the 6 and John Cannon booted a 33-yard field goal. Brent Austin had a 14-yard pick-six and two minutes later Mac Harris recovered a Charlotte fumble and returned it 25 yards for a score to make it 45-17 after three quarters.
Deshawn Purdie threw 15 yards to Isaiah Myers for Charlotte’s last score before Joiner broke a 45-yard touchdown run and Alvon Isaac added a nine-yard run for the final TD.
Bryce Archie was 11 of 16 passing for 126 yards with an interception and added 72 yards on six carries.
Purdie was 17 of 29 passing for 256 yards to lead Charlotte (3-7, 2-4). He threw for one touchdown and was intercepted twice. Myers had four catches for 82 yards.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Walter Clayton scored 16 of his 25 points in the first half and No. 20 Florida held off a late rally to beat Florida State 87-74 on Friday night.
Florida’s Todd Golden coached his first road game after allegations of sexual harassment and stalking surfaced last week. Golden was greeted by boos from a sold-out Florida State student section.
Alijah Martin added 17 points and five rebounds, Alex Condon had seven points and 12 rebounds and Florida (4-0) won its fourth straight rivalry game against Florida State.
Florida State trailed by 15 with just under eight minutes to go but chipped away and cut Florida’s lead to 77-73 with 2:23 to go. But Clayton and Martin made 3s to help Florida secure the win.
Jamir Watkins had 19 points and seven rebounds for the Seminoles (3-1). Justin Thomas hit three 3-pointers in the second half, finishing with 11 points.
Takeaways
Florida: The Gators had 13 offensive rebounds and produced 16 second-chance points.
Florida State: The Seminoles forced 19 turnovers, producing 16 points off turnovers, but the defensive effort wasn’t enough.
Key moment
The Gators made 3s on back-to-back possessions to punctuate a 14-2 run, extending their lead to 37-19 with 5:36 until halftime.
Key stat
Florida shot 26% from 3-point range in its first three games but was 7 of 15 (46.7%) from beyond the arc in the first half and raced to a 44-31 lead at the break.
Up next
Florida hosts Florida A&M on Tuesday, the same day Florida State hosts Hofstra.
TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Jayden Reid’s 16 points helped South Florida defeat UAPB 85-69 on Tuesday night.
Reid added six rebounds and six assists for the Bulls (1-2). Kobe Knox scored 16 points while going 6 of 13 (3 for 8 from 3-point range) and added six rebounds. Brandon Stroud had 15 points and shot 5 for 9 (1 for 4 from 3-point range) and 4 of 5 from the free-throw line.
The Golden Lions (1-3) were led in scoring by Dante Sawyer, who finished with 24 points and eight rebounds. Christian Moore added 12 points and five assists for UAPB.
South Florida took the lead with 17:52 remaining in the first half and did not give it up. Knox led his team in scoring with 13 points in the first half to help put them up 50-34 at the break. Reid scored a team-high 11 points after halftime.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Carson Beck jumped into the stands wearing black eye paint smeared across his face and a wide smile. His three interceptions were a distant memory. All he cared about what celebrating another victory in the game he cherishes most.
Beck threw for 309 yards and two touchdowns to offset three interceptions in his hometown and No. 2 Georgia escaped “The World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party” with a 34-20 victory over Florida on Saturday.
Now he’s 2-0 as a starter against the Gators.
“This is my dream. It’s a super cool circle for me,” Beck said. “This is my favorite game of the year. I wouldn’t say I ever put pressure on myself. I go play football. … Obviously, I want to throw a perfect game: 30 for 30, four TDs. That’s what I was thinking about walking into the stadium. I felt like I was the man, walking back into my hometown of Jacksonville, let’s go. This is fun.
“What am I supposed to do? We just won. I’m happy.”
But Beck knows he has to reduce — maybe even eliminate — turnovers for Georgia to do something special. He has eight interceptions in his last three games, all wins.
“Some of the throws he makes are big-time, elite throws,” Georgia coach Kirby Smart said. “He just has a couple of times where he threw the ball over the middle late. You can’t do that. You can’t turn the ball over and be a good football team; he knows that.
“I don’t think it’s a matter of decision making. I think sometimes he presses there, and it’s a big game to him; he’s from here. We don’t win that game without Carson Beck.”
The Bulldogs (7-1, 5-1 Southeastern Conference) won their fourth straight in the series, their longest streak since winning six in a row between 1978 and 1983. They took advantage of Florida’s quarterback woes and a special teams error in this one.
“I do think the game went the way we wanted it,” Florida coach Billy Napier said. “We made it ugly at time. But we had our team in position to win the game.”
The Gators kept the game close thanks to a stingy defense that forced Beck into more mistakes. Jack Pyburn, Aaron Gates and Devin Moore had picks that led to a combined 10 points for Florida.
But the most significant turnover belonged to the Gators. Punter Jeremy Crawshaw failed to handle Rocco Underwood’s low snap on a 51-yard field goal attempt late in the third. It resulted in a 31-yard loss, setting up Beck’s first TD pass.
The Takeaway
Georgia: If the Bulldogs make the College Football Playoff, they won’t likely go very far if Beck continues his turnover trend. He now has 11 interceptions in his last five games. It’s baffling for a guy who opened the season as one of the Heisman Trophy front-runners.
Florida: The Gators need to ask themselves how they ended with a walk-on quarterback playing meaningful snaps in a rivalry game. Napier has lost eight scholarship QBs earlier than expected in three years, including Jalen Kitna, Jack Miller, Max Brown and Jaden Rashada.
Crowded injury reports
With Jason Marshall and Ja’Keem Jackson already sidelined, the Gators lost two more cornerbacks against Georgia. Moore injured his right knee in the first half and Dijon Johnson injured his left hamstring in the second.
Georgia running back Trevor Etienne, who transferred from Florida after last season, left the game with a rib injury. Backup Nate Frazier ran 19 times for 82 yards and a touchdown. He also got an earful from coach Kirby Smart after getting flagged for making a throat-slash gesture.
When people think of living in Miami, images of South Beach, art deco architecture, and neon-lit nights often come to mind. However, beyond the well-trodden paths of tourists, the Magic City holds a treasure trove of local hidden gems that reveal the city’s diverse cultural, historical, and natural beauty. Whether you’re in the market to buy a home in Miami, FL, have your eyes on an apartment in the city, or interested in a rental house in the area, here are 6 hidden gems in Miami just waiting to be discovered.
1. Work out like a local
The city of Miami is known for year-round sunshine and endless beaches that make everyday feel like summer for both residents and visitors. Locals maintain an active lifestyle year-round, and newcomers can join in by enjoying outdoor yoga classes, beach volleyball, or scenic bike rides along Ocean Drive. These activities not only promote well-being but also immerse you in Miami’s vibrant, health-conscious community.
The city offers countless ways to stay active and break a sweat, with Pilates classes becoming more of a standout option. These dynamic workouts have grown increasingly popular, with boutique studios throughout the city offering sessions that emphasize core strength, flexibility, and overall wellness. “We are die-hard Pilates girls and we love supporting local, female-owned businesses. For a classic reformer experience with a lot of heat, “the power Pilates class is our favorite at Reforming Pilates. We also love the Miami Beach location on Lenox Avenue for our favorite mega former experience at JETSET Pilates,” says The Brickell Babes, your guide to all things beauty, wellness, and dining in Brickell, Miami, and the surrounding neighborhoods.
Now everyone isn’t die-hard Pilates fans, however if you’re looking for a great workout class while making new friends, Downtown Strength and Conditioning (DTSC) is a boutique CrossFit and HIIT gym. After you’ve crushed it, take a quick shower using one of the many amenities offered, then head over to Julia & Henry’s food hall. Just steps away you can explore the best bites downtown Miami has to offer. Sweat, shower, and indulge—it’s the ultimate Miami mix of fitness and flavor.
2. Hidden culinary treasures
After a rewarding workout, Miami’s diverse restaurant scene provides the perfect opportunity to refuel and indulge in a variety of cuisines. Miami has everything from upscale fine dining to laid-back local spots offering mouthwatering dishes. Xmap, a website providing key insights into the Miami food and beverage scene, says, “As a new resident, be sure to immerse yourself in Miami’s vibrant restaurant scene, from the breezy outdoor cafes along Ocean Drive and trendy brunch spots in Wynwood, all showcasing the city’s offerings of a mix of Latin-inspired flavors, fresh seafood, and artisanal coffee.” The city’s restaurants capture its vibrant energy and cultural richness, making it a foodie paradise for both casual diners and culinary enthusiasts.
Midday delights
The city is full of different businesses and concepts, and Elote Lovers is among them, serving Miami through its restaurant and food truck for over 10 years. Although the name says it all, this hidden gem in Miami specializes in the popular Mexican street food with its main ingredient being roasted corn creating Elote. However, the standout is how it’s consistently prepared in the most creative and delicious way.
Located in the heart of the Wynwood Art District, Kush Wynwood has earned its spot as one of the Top 52 Burgers in Miami. A great burger has a way of bringing people together, and at Kush, they elevate one of America’s favorite sandwiches to a whole new level. Craft Beer Joe states, “If you’re in Miami, you’ve got to check out Kush Wynwood. It’s the perfect spot for great meals and unique craft beer, one of my favorites is the Frita by Kush.” With inventive craft beers, locally sourced ingredients, and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy while soaking in Wynwood’s vibrant art scene.
Evening for two or a crew
Whether you’re planning a fun night out with new friends or a romantic date night, Miami offers the perfect backdrop with its vibrant atmosphere, endless dining options, and lively nightlife. “An extremely fun place for new Miami residents to visit is Just the Funny, an improv theater with hilariously unscripted shows,” explains Dream Date Nights, offering date night and relationships resources. “It’s perfect for a fun night that’s a little different from the usual Miami nightlife. Another awesome spot is Calle Ocho—the heart of Miami’s Cuban culture. The vibe there is incredible, with amazing food, music, and such a welcoming sense of community.” Be sure to take the time to slow down, connect, and indulge in a new environment with an evening of great food and unforgettable ambiance at some of Miami’s best hidden gems.
Now if you’re looking for an upscale vibe, chic décor, and exceptional service to complete the experience, Delilah in Brickell is a must-visit while getting to know the city. Their signature technique-driven cuisine with a Latin twist, live jazz, and impeccable service create the perfect atmosphere for dinner to take in the city’s energy. As a celebrity-frequented hotspot, it channels the glamor of the Roaring ‘20s with stunning 180-degree views of Biscayne Bay, its own boat slips, and a no-photo policy.
A sweet journey
Tucked away in the city’s bustling neighborhoods are hidden gem bakeries and dessert spots waiting to be discovered. These local favorites serve up everything from delicate pastries to decadent desserts, offering a sweet escape from the city’s usual hotspots. Whether you’re craving a classic treat or an inventive new flavor, the dessert scene is full of surprises that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
In the heart of Pembroke Pines, Hammond’s Bakery has been an integral part of the area for over 40 years, family-owned and operated. The team provides tasty and original patties and pastries baked fresh daily along with delicious Jamaican dishes. Through the years, they now have two stores conveniently located in both Miami and Fort Lauderdale to better serve Miami’s diverse customer base.
With locations in Miami Beach and Hallandale Beach, savor delicious empanadas, croissants, and other sweet and savory pastries at Moises Bakery. If you’re heading to the beach, be sure to stop by for a quick breakfast or snack. Moises Bakery has been serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner for over 35 years, baking fresh bread and pastries daily, with a menu that fuses Venezuelan and European flavors. From traditional tequeños to freshly baked cakes, there’s something to satisfy every craving at this beloved local spot.
Looking to celebrate the new move? Well, any celebration could always use something sweet and baked. A sweet hidden gem in Miami is Frudeco Bakery, which captures the city’s vibrant spirit with stunning custom cakes and creative confections. Every cake is inspired by Miami’s lively culture, from tropical flavors to colorful designs. So, whether you’re throwing a housewarming party or simply treating yourself, Frudeco is the perfect destination to add a touch of sweetness and creativity to your celebration.
3. Sun-soaked celebrations you can’t miss
Miami is famous for its vibrant celebrations, but the city hides a treasure trove of sun-soaked festivals and parties waiting to be discovered. From lively cultural celebrations to intimate beachfront gatherings, Miami’s hidden gems offer a chance to experience the city’s festive spirit in unexpected ways.
What is sun-soaked without a pool or beach? Strawberry Moon is a high-energy restaurant, bar, and day-to-night swim club, tucked above the busy streets of South Beach on the third floor of The Goodtime Hotel. This tropical paradise with twin pools divided by a runway and lined with lush landscaping, comfy chaise lounges, and private cabanas will call your name day and night. It’s always a party with two open-air bars, bottle service, a DJ booth, and a lineup of constant revolving events. This club promises a tropical trinity of exceptional food, exceptional drink, and an exceptional visit.
Attending a rum festival in Miami is a spirited celebration to indulge in the rich flavors and vibrant culture surrounding this beloved spirit. The Miami Rum Congress is a boutique-style event that is one of the most anticipated rum events in the country. Showcasing a handful of brands that emphasize education and premiumization in the rum category, this event is ideal for rum connoisseurs, casual consumers, and industry professionals eager to explore and learn. With countless distinct award-winning premium rum brands and hundreds of distinct rum expressions available, have it your way by sampling them either neat or in a twisted daiquiri.
Sometimes, you’d rather create the fun than just simply join it. Being a party thrower in Miami means stepping into the role of a curator, where you have the exciting opportunity to create unforgettable experiences for your friends and loved ones—whether it’s hosting an unforgettable housewarming party or planning the neighborhood’s best gathering. Well curated and designed décor is one of the greatest elements of a fun party or gathering. For high-end party and picnic décor, Paspalum Designs is known for its eclectic set ups and custom florals with a global flair. They offer a range of beautiful styling packages and floral installations for a range of events including intimate date nights and romantic beach proposals to garden parties for birthdays, anniversaries, bridal showers, engagements, and micro weddings.
4. Discover literary treasures in paradise
Miami’s literary scene is as vibrant and diverse as the city itself, offering a rich blend of independent bookstores, literary festivals, and cultural hubs that cater to all kinds of readers. For a new resident, exploring Miami’s book scene is a great way to connect with the city’s creative pulse, discover local authors, and join a welcoming community of fellow book lovers.
For any book lover exploring Miami, Book & Books in Coral Gables is a must-visit destination. Travel bloggers Lauren and Jack from LaurenJade highlight, “If you’re a bookworm, you have to head to Book & Books, specifically their original-flagship location. You’ll find each and every genre in this independently-owned bookstore. The staff are super knowledgeable and incredibly helpful, and they have a cute outdoor café as well as a cozy indoor eating area you can chill in while you dive into your latest book. They also run some cool events like book signings, trivia nights, and evenings with well-known authors.”
For both literary enthusiasts and casual readers, the annual Miami Book Fair stands as one of the most prestigious events, bringing together book lovers and authors from around the globe. Now in its 41st edition, the fair continues to attract hundreds of the world’s most acclaimed, thought-provoking, and inspiring literary voices, who come to Miami to share their work in English, Spanish, French, and Haitian Kreyol. Authors engage with audiences through readings, Q&A sessions, and book signings, making the fair a welcoming space where people of all ages can come together to celebrate great writing and the joy of reading.
5. Uncover Miami’s fashion hotspots
Miami’s fashion scene offers unique boutiques with an eclectic mix of styles, reflecting the city’s vibrant culture and featuring one-of-a-kind pieces to elevate any wardrobe.
When most people think of Miami, they envision a playground for adults; however, the area is a vibrant destination for all ages. The Shoppe Miami offers a carefully curated selection of the best kids brands from around the world. Ranging from mid-range to designer, this boutique dresses the little ones in current, quality fashion trends. If you or anyone you know is celebrating a little one this place has some of the cutest baby gifts, toddler styles, and outfits for kids, tweens, and teens.
6. Live like a local
As a prospective resident of the city, there’s no better way to immerse yourself than by uncovering the hidden gems in Miami through an extended stay. You’ll get a chance to experience life as a local, gaining access to the city’s most authentic neighborhoods. Whether you’re wandering through artsy districts or indulging in Miami’s world-class dining, each corner reveals a glimpse of the city’s spirit. This experience is the ideal way to envision what life in the Magic City truly feels like and if Miami is a good place to live for you.
The cultural heartbeat
The Wynwood and Miami Design District neighborhoods are among the most notable areas in Miami. While these hotspots draw both locals and tourists alike, they also serve as gateways to Miami’s many hidden gems. “These two trendy neighborhoods are perfect for exploring art, design, and vibrant culture. In Wynwood, you’ll find colorful street murals, hip cafes, and a lively nightlife scene. While just a short trip away, the Design District is home to luxury shops, chic restaurants, and stunning architecture. Perfect for a stroll, to shop, and have a bite to eat,” boasts The Fine Circle, the ultimate guide to hidden gems in cities across the country. These neighborhoods promise a delightful blend of the well-known and the extraordinary, allowing you to uncover the true essence of Miami.
As you transition from the artistic vibe of Wynwood and the Design District, South Beach awaits with its iconic shoreline and lively atmosphere, embodying the quintessential Miami experience. This lively district not only serves as a playground for sun-seekers but also acts as a melting pot of cultures. Whether you’re sunbathing on the sands or enjoying a night out, South Beach perfectly complements your exploration of Miami’s dynamic neighborhoods. If you really end up loving this area, be sure to check out the Continuum South Beach condos, where residents enjoy 12 manicured acres of lush grass and resort-style amenities in their own community, creating an idyllic setting for both relaxation and entertainment.
Deering Estate
For a step back in time, head to the Deering Estate in the Palmetto Bay area. This place showcases the best of South Florida’s historic architecture and natural environment. The Miami-Dade County Heritage Park has a vital role in the community’s history, environment, and in providing a variety of recreational and cultural experiences. This 444-acre historic estate was once the home of industrialist Charles Deering and offers a glimpse into Old Florida. Visitors can explore the stunning stone mansion, ancient fossil grounds, and scenic hiking trails through mangroves and hardwood hammocks.
Accommodations redefined
While scoping out your potential new home in Miami, an extended stay is the best way to truly discover the city. Choosing one of Miami’s best-kept secrets, like Miami Luxury Access, for yourself or for loved ones visiting after your move is a smart decision for experiencing luxury and comfort firsthand. You’ll discover hidden gems in Miami that make this city unique, such as quaint parks, charming cafes, and off-the-beaten-path shops that reflect the city’s diverse heritage. With each new experience, you’ll gain valuable insights into the lifestyle and character of different neighborhoods, helping you envision what life would be like in your new home.
Hidden gems in Miami, FL: The city’s best-kept secrets
Miami is a city of contrasts. From the neon lights of Ocean Drive to the quiet mangroves of Matheson Hammock, there’s so much to discover beyond the obvious. Whether it’s exploring fitness classes, restaurants, or diving into the rich cultures of its diverse neighborhoods, there are countless hidden gems in Miami waiting to be uncovered. In a place known for its glitz and glamor, Miami’s true magic lies in its ability to surprise and delight those willing to look a little deeper.
You might be considering a beachfront apartment in Miami or a suburban home in Orlando, as these Florida cities offer distinct living experiences. Miami is known for its nightlife and international flair, while Orlando is famous for its attractions and laid-back lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn to the busy streets of Miami or the theme park capital of the world, choosing the right city is an important decision.
From real estate prices and job opportunities to cost of living and cultural experiences, there’s much to weigh. In this Redfin article, we’ll explore the differences to help you decide which city aligns with your lifestyle and future plans.
Housing in Miami vs Orlando
Miami and Orlando each offer distinctive housing options, from Miami’s beachfront condos to Orlando’s suburban communities. Let’s dive into the differences in housing costs, living space, and real estate options between these two popular Florida cities.
Housing in Miami
Miami’s real estate market is known for its luxury condos, waterfront properties, and diverse neighborhoods. Those looking for a lively city vibe will find plenty of high-rise living options in areas like Brickell or South Beach. While the cost of living is relatively high, Miami’s cultural and nightlife scene draws many residents looking for an exciting urban lifestyle. For more affordable housing, areas like Little Havana and North Miami Beach provide budget-friendly alternatives.
Median home cost: The median home sale price in Miami is around $600,000, reflecting the demand for beachfront and city-center properties.
Average rental cost: The average rent for an apartment in Miami is about $2,731 per month, especially in popular districts near the water.
Housing in Orlando
Orlando’s housing market offers a more relaxed and budget-friendly alternative to Miami, with a mix of suburban homes, condos, and apartments. People are drawn to Orlando’s neighborhoods for their spacious properties, community atmosphere, and proximity to major attractions. The city’s real estate is more affordable, making it a popular choice for those looking to balance cost with quality of life.
Median home cost: The median home sale price in Orlando is roughly $380,000, providing more space and a lower cost compared to Miami.
Average rental cost: Renting an apartment in Orlando averages around $1,736 per month, making it a more affordable choice for those seeking a central Florida lifestyle.
Cost of living in Miami vs Orlando
The overall cost of living in Miami is about 17% higher than in Orlando. Differences in housing, lifestyle, and transportation significantly influence this variation.
Utilities
Utilities in Miami are about 6% more expensive than in Orlando. The hot, humid climate of Miami leads to higher air conditioning costs, while Orlando’s slightly milder weather helps keep utility prices lower.
Groceries
Groceries in Miami are roughly 5% more expensive than in Orlando. Miami’s high demand and limited urban space for large grocery stores drive up prices, while Orlando’s suburban layout allows for more spacious stores and competitive pricing.
Transportation
Transportation costs are 5% higher in Miami compared to Orlando. Miami’s public transit system and frequent toll roads contribute to the increased expenses, while Orlando’s less congested roads and more affordable parking make getting around cheaper.
Healthcare
Healthcare in Miami is about 5% more expensive than in Orlando. The city’s demand for specialized healthcare services and higher real estate costs for medical facilities contribute to the higher expenses.
Lifestyle
Lifestyle expenses in Miami are 8% higher than in Orlando. Miami’s vibrant nightlife, dining scene, and beach activities come at a premium, whereas Orlando offers similar experiences, including entertainment and theme parks, at more affordable prices.
Miami vs Orlando in size and population: A tale of two Florida favorites
Miami and Orlando are two of Florida’s most popular cities, yet they differ in size and population dynamics. Miami spans about 56 square miles and has a population of approximately 442,000, resulting in a dense urban environment known for its high-rise condos and bustling streets. Orlando, on the other hand, covers around 119 square miles with a population of roughly 308,000, making it more spread out and less densely populated than Miami. While Miami’s compactness fuels a vibrant, fast-paced atmosphere, Orlando’s larger area allows for a more relaxed, suburban feel, with numerous parks, lakes, and attractions spread across the city. The lower density in Orlando makes it easier to find open spaces and recreational areas, while Miami’s density drives its dynamic, cosmopolitan vibe.
Weather and climate in Miami vs Orlando
Miami’s climate and Orlando’s climate both enjoy a tropical weather, with warm temperatures year-round and distinct wet and dry seasons. However, Miami, located further south along the coast, is typically more humid and experiences slightly higher temperatures, especially in the summer. Orlando, while still hot and humid, benefits from being further inland, which can slightly moderate temperatures and reduce the risk of coastal flooding. Both cities are at risk for hurricanes and tropical storms, with the hurricane season running from June to November, though Miami’s coastal location makes it more vulnerable to direct impacts from storms.
The job market in Miami vs Orlando
Miami: A growing financial and trade hub
Miami’s job market is anchored by its financial services, trade, and tourism industries, positioning the city as a key economic center in South Florida. With an employment rate of 65% and a median household income of $69,000, the city offers an average hourly wage of $30.47. Major employers like Royal Caribbean, Carnival Corporation, and the University of Miami drive job creation, with growing opportunities in healthcare and tech as well. Miami’s role as a gateway to Latin America makes it a hub for international trade and finance, attracting professionals from diverse sectors.
Orlando: Tourism and healthcare drive the economy
Orlando’s economy is heavily influenced by its world-famous tourism industry, but the city is also seeing significant growth in healthcare and education. With an employment rate of 69% and a median household income of $69,000, the average hourly wage stands at $27.87. Major employers such as Walt Disney World, AdventHealth, and Lockheed Martin contribute to a steady job market, offering careers in entertainment, healthcare, and aerospace. Orlando’s diverse economy and growing tech presence provide a range of job opportunities, making it a versatile destination for job seekers.
Transportation in Miami vs Orlando
Miami: Public transit and coastal accessibility
Miami’s transportation system features Metrorail, Metrobus, and the Metromover, which serve the city’s urban areas. While walkable in certain neighborhoods, Miami’s transit network doesn’t cover the entire city comprehensively, making driving common. Biking is growing in popularity, especially along the city’s coastal areas.
Orlando: Car-dependent but expanding transit options
Orlando is a car-dependent city, with public transit mainly consisting of LYNX buses and SunRail commuter trains. The city’s suburban layout favors driving, though walkability is improving in areas like downtown. Biking is also growing in popularity with a developing network of bike lanes.
Travel in and out of Miami vs Orlando
Both cities are popular travel destinations, but Miami has more international flight options and coastal transportation.
Miami: Miami International Airport, Amtrak, Brightline high-speed rail, Greyhound, and extensive port facilities for cruises.
Orlando: Orlando International Airport, Amtrak’s Silver Service, LYNX buses, and a rapidly expanding Brightline connection to South Florida.
Lifestyle and things to Do in Miami vs Orlando
A day in the life of a Miamian
Life in Miami is vibrant and full of cultural experiences, blending beach living with a dynamic urban lifestyle. Mornings often start with a jog along the sandy shores or a café con leche from a Cuban café. The city’s neighborhoods, such as Wynwood and Little Havana, offer unique cultural activities, while Miami’s nightlife is buzzing with rooftop bars, Latin music, and dance clubs. Weekends might be spent soaking up the sun on South Beach, boating in Biscayne Bay, or attending one of the city’s many art or music festivals.
Top things to do in Miami:
Google Street View of South Beach
Miami parks and green gems:
Google Street View of Oleta River State Park
Miami tourist attractions:
Art Deco Historic District
Miami Seaquarium
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Little Havana
Jungle Island
A day in the life of an Orlando resident
Orlando’s lifestyle revolves around entertainment and outdoor activities. Mornings might start with a walk around Lake Eola before heading to work, or a quick coffee at a local café. While the city is famous for its theme parks, residents also enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking in nearby springs or hiking in nature preserves. Weekends often include visiting cultural events, enjoying the local dining scene, or exploring the beautiful gardens and parks around the city.
Top things to do in Orlando:
Google Street View of Wekiwa Springs State Park
Orlando parks and green gems:
Google Street View of Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve
Orlando tourist attractions:
Universal Studios
Gatorland
ICON Park
Kennedy Space Center (nearby)
Orlando Science Center
Food and culture in Miami vs Orlando
Miami: A blend of Latin flavors and beachside dining
Miami’s culinary landscape is a vibrant mix of Latin American flavors and fresh seafood, reflecting its diverse cultural makeup. Signature dishes like Cuban sandwiches, stone crab, and ceviche are must-tries, but the city also offers upscale dining experiences. Events such as the South Beach Wine & Food Festival celebrate Miami’s culinary diversity. The city’s cultural scene thrives with Latin music, art galleries, and events like Art Basel, showcasing Miami as a hub for cultural expression and nightlife.
Orlando: Friendly fare and diverse offerings
Orlando’s food scene extends beyond theme park dining, with a growing reputation for its variety of international cuisines and farm-to-table restaurants. Local specialties include Floribbean cuisine, with influences from Caribbean flavors and fresh local produce. Events like the Orlando Food & Wine Fest highlight the city’s culinary growth. Culturally, Orlando offers more than just theme parks, featuring institutions like the Orlando Museum of Art and a variety of music and theater performances, making it a lively center for arts and entertainment.
Sports scene in Miami vs Orlando
Miami: A sports and beach lifestyle
Miami’s sports scene is characterized by its mix of professional teams and a year-round beach lifestyle. The city is home to the Miami Heat, Dolphins, and Marlins, each with a loyal fanbase that brings energy to games at venues like Hard Rock Stadium and FTX Arena. Soccer is also growing in popularity, with Inter Miami CF adding to the city’s diverse sports landscape. Miami’s warm climate and beachfront setting create a unique environment where sports culture is intertwined with outdoor activities, making it a hub for both sports fans and beachgoers.
Orlando: Where magic and soccer shine
Orlando’s sports culture is centered around basketball and soccer, with the Orlando Magic and Orlando City SC leading the way. The Kia Center comes alive during basketball season, while Exploria Stadium hosts passionate soccer crowds. While the city lacks professional football and baseball teams, Orlando makes up for it with a strong collegiate sports scene, thanks to the UCF Knights. Additionally, the city’s reputation as a theme park capital extends to sports tourism, with events like the annual Florida Citrus Bowl drawing fans from across the country.
DURHAM, N.C. (AP) — Chandler Rivers scored on an interception return, Todd Pelino kicked three field goals and Duke beat Florida State for the first time in 23 all-time meetings, winning 23-16 on Friday night.
Star Thomas ran for 88 yards and a touchdown and the Blue Devils (6-1, 2-1 Atlantic Coast Conference) bounced back from their first loss of the season nearly two weeks earlier.
Florida State (1-6, 1-5) had its misery extended despite outgaining Duke by 111 yards.
With a chance to pull even, the Seminoles drove to the Duke 37-yard line before a first-down fumble at the 5:18 mark. Florida State’s final possession ended on a fourth-down play that lost yards.
Blue Devils quarterback Maalik Murphy threw for 70 yards as part of the team’s 180 yards of total offense.
Florida State quarterback Brock Glenn committed turnovers on three consecutive first-half snaps, with two interceptions sandwiched around a fumble. He finished 9-for-19 passing for 110 yards. Backup Luke Kromenhoek was 3 for 7 for 19 yards.
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Florida State’s Samuel Singleton Jr. returned the second-half kickoff 95 yards for a touchdown.
Duke, with 51 yards of total offense at the time, led 17-3 after Pelino’s 27-yard field goal with 10 minutes left in the first half.
Rivers picked off Glenn and raced 36 yards untouched for Duke’s first touchdown. Glenn fumbled on the next Florida State snap, meaning the Blue Devils had only 36 yards to go for their second touchdown, with Thomas’ 2-yard run on fourth-and-1 providing the points.
Ozzie Nicholas’ interception and return to the Florida State 11 turned into only three points.
Duke’s first four possessions ended with punts.
THE TAKEAWAY
Florida State: The Seminoles tried two quarterbacks, but the offense sputtered most of the game and didn’t crank out a touchdown. The defense turned in a strong showing, but the reigning ACC champions will have to win the rest of their games to gain bowl eligibility.
Duke: The Blue Devils barely functioned offensively, but defense has been their foundation this season and that was needed this time. Six sacks came in handy.
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Dylan Sampson scored on his third touchdown of the game on a 1-yard run in overtime to give No. 8 Tennessee a 23-17 victory over Florida on Saturday night.
The Volunteers (5-1, 2-1 Southeastern Conference) went to overtime for only the second time. The first was in 1998 when they won the national title.
Trey Smack missed a 47-yard field goal try for Florida (3-3, 1-2) on the first overtime possession.
The Gators tied it with 29 seconds left on DJ Lagway’s 27-yard touchdown pass to Chimere Dike. After lining up for a 2-point conversion, Tennessee called a timeout and Florida kicked the extra point.
Sampson, who rushed for 112 yards, ran 23 yards for a go-ahead, fourth-quarter touchdown. The touchdown was set up by a defensive stand that forced the Gators to punt from their end zone.
Florida jumped out to a 10-0 lead, with Graham Mertz hitting Arlis Boardingham with a 13-yard scoring pass midway through the third quarter. On the play, Mertz’s foot caught in the turf and he sustained a left leg injury.
Sampson then had a 6-yard scoring, and Lagway, who took over for Mertz, threw an interception that set up Max Gilbert’s tying, 35-yard field goal.
THE TAKEAWAY
Florida: With Georgia, Texas, LSU and Ole Miss still on the schedule, the Gators will have to get things in order in a hurry. Bright glimmers from wins over Mississippi State and UCF were parlayed into a gritty performance against the Vols.
Tennessee: A lot of the problems that cropped up in the loss to Arkansas were evident again. With Alabama visiting next week, the Vols have a long way to go to make things right. If Tennessee is going to be a playoff contender the rest of the season, it needs to show consistency in its performance.
