Miami's situation is unique in two key respects. By knocking out its toughest challenges early, Miami should be positioned to move up the national polls every week as others fall away. Morale isn't a problem, but the Hurricanes may need to battle malaise and focus issues throughout the rest of the season. Will the swagger carry the day when the whole world isn't watching? This weekend presents a classic letdown situation, but the opponent is lowly FCS (formerly Division 1-AA) squad Florida A&M.

Second, each of the difficult stretches in Table 1 were played exclusively against conference competition. Miami has already played what appear to be three of the most challenging ACC teams it will face, but the Hurricanes' victory over Oklahoma may have the most lasting effect for its BCS national championship aspirations. If a healthy Sam Bradford can put the Sooners back on track for a BCS bowl berth of its own, the computer systems (including FEI) will love the Hurricanes even more.