It typically is Florida State kickers who go through the nightmarish experiences against Miami. On Saturday, it was deep snapper Zack Aronson's turn.

The walk-on from Coral Springs has been steady in his first season as a starter, but two critical miscues helped Miami mount a furious second-half rally.

The first was a high snap that punter Shawn Powell ended up booting through the back of the end zone for a safety midway through the third quarter.

The safety cut FSU's lead to 31-15 and put the Hurricanes in excellent field position after the ensuing kick. Miami scored one play later on a 51-yard pass.

Then, with the Seminoles clinging to a 34-29 lead, Aronson delivered another wayward snap. This one ricocheted off upback Nigel Bradham, setting off a mad scramble after Powell kicked it toward the FSU sideline.

Powell was penalized for illegal kicking on the play, giving the Hurricanes possession at the FSU 4. The Seminoles were fortunate to give up only a field goal.

KEY INTERCEPTIONS

Tony Carter had two interceptions, including a midair wrestling match in which he yanked the ball from UM receiver Leonard Hankerson. With Hankerson streaking behind him, Carter had just enough burst to catch up and get his hand in the mix.

''It happened so fast,'' Carter said. ``If he wasn't going to catch it, I had to get it.''

It was Carter's ninth career interception, which leaves him tied for 19th on FSU's all-time list. Eight of the nine have come away from home.

''I was just trying to do my job,'' he said. ``To come up with a couple of big interceptions and a pass breakup -- that's why I came to Florida State.''

-- JEFF SHAIN, IRA SCHOFFEL

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