OXFORD — Miami University’s football team has found ways to win close games and overcome injuries. Now, the RedHawks face another important test in the Mid-American Conference championship race.
Miami (5-3, 3-1 MAC) hosts Buffalo (5-3, 3-1) on Tuesday, Nov. 3, at 8 p.m. at Yager Stadium. The game will air on ESPN.
The RedHawks have won three straight, while Buffalo enters with consecutive victories over Toledo and UMass. Both teams are seeking bowl eligibility and positioning in the MAC standings.
Here are five things to know:
1. MAC championship implications
Miami has reached three consecutive MAC championship games and won 25 of its past 31 conference contests under coach Chuck Martin.
The RedHawks have rebounded from a 2-3 start with victories over UMass, Akron and Central Michigan.
Miami leads the all-time series against Buffalo 18-9, including an 11-3 record at Yager Stadium.
2. Miami thrives in close games
Five of Miami’s past six games have been decided on the final possession.
The RedHawks rallied past Central Michigan 28-27 on Oct. 24, scoring the winning touchdown on D’Shawntae Jones’ 1-yard run with 1:41 remaining.
Miami also edged UConn 24-21 and UMass 20-19, showing an ability to deliver in critical moments.
Kellan McLaughlin has made eight consecutive field-goal attempts after starting the season 2 of 6.
3. Heavner settling in at quarterback
With Thomas Gotkowski and David McComb sidelined by season-ending injuries, Caleb Heavner has taken control of Miami’s offense.
The Fort Hays State transfer has thrown for 615 yards and three touchdowns while rushing for 217 yards and two scores.
Heavner delivered his best performance against Central Michigan, passing for 221 yards and rushing for 58.
Receiver Maleek Huggins added seven catches for 122 yards in the victory.
4. Miami’s defense faces Buffalo’s rushing attack
Buffalo running back Messiah Burch enters with 845 rushing yards and five touchdowns.
Miami ranks 14th nationally in rushing defense, allowing 94.9 yards per game.
The RedHawks have surrendered just 272 rushing yards over their past four games, averaging 2.5 yards allowed per carry.
Linebackers Malcolm McCain, Blayne Myrick, CJ Young and Brock Uihlein have helped anchor that defensive effort.
5. Special teams and Myaamia tribute
Miami’s Scoop Smith ranks second nationally with a 35.3-yard kickoff return average and has scored touchdowns rushing, receiving and returning kickoffs.
The RedHawks also will wear special uniforms Tuesday honoring the university’s longstanding relationship with the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma.
The uniforms feature the Myaamia Heritage Logo, recognizing a partnership spanning more than 50 years.
Martin, Miami’s winningest coach with 150 career victories, is seeking his sixth consecutive bowl appearance.
A victory would give Miami its fourth straight win, secure bowl eligibility and strengthen its pursuit of another MAC championship game appearance.
