i am a Canes fan, of course. But i am a journalist first, and as such, I say the hated Gators will beat the Canes Saturday night. I hope I am wrong, but these Canes have yet to prove anything at this level - and no, a win over Charleston Southern does not count.

These Canes are simply too inexperienced. QB Robert Marve will start the game and his first play Saturday will be his first college play ever. To do that against the 5th-ranked Gators is quite a challenge.

I have high hopes for Marve and his backup, Jacory Harris. Both were studs in high school, winning Mr. Florida Football in 2006 and 2007 respectively. But this is another level. The Gators aren't just college football, they are elite college football with numerous guys on the path to NFL riches.

How can the Canes' pull the upset? Wet weather, which is expected this weekend, could be a start. Bad weather always gives the underdog a better chance to even things up.

Secondly, the Canes' ground gain has to work in a big-time way. That would chew up the clock and keep the ball out of Tim Tebow's hands for long stretches. And the Canes strength on offense is their offensive line and running backs, so this second part of the plan is not impossible.

No. 3 on the list is forcing turnovers. That's really the only way to stop Tebow. And the wet weather could help create turnovers.

Special teams, a Canes disaster last season, has to be a weapon Saturday night. Graig Cooper ran a punt back for a TD last week. Now he has to prove he can do that vs. the Gators.

Lastly, the Canes have to get something out of their passing game. They cannot be afraid to throw the ball downfield when the Gators crowd the line to stop Miami's runs. And a receiver - Travis Benjamin perhaps? - needs to emerge.