By FRED GOODALL
AP Sports Writer

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) – Miami is off to its best start in nine years, and South Florida coach Willie Taggart believes the 15th-ranked Hurricanes are on the verge of reclaiming a spot among the nation’s elite.

Taggart grew up in nearby Bradenton, rooting for Florida State during a time when Miami (3-0) was one of college football’s most dominant programs.

The 15th-ranked ‘Canes are looking to begin a season with four straight victories for the first time since 2004 when they face winless USF (0-3), which is still chasing its first win under Taggart.

Taggart concedes it will be difficult to get it Saturday because Miami, in his eyes, is a team that doesn’t have a real weakness.

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