Miami Hurricanes Make College Football Playoff History with Upset Win
ARLINGTON, Texas — The Miami Hurricanes pulled off one of the most significant upsets in recent college football history, defeating the No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes 24–14 in the College Football Playoff quarterfinal at the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic on Dec. 31, 2025. The victory marks Miami’s first CFP win and extends the program’s reach into the national spotlight. Yahoo Sports
Historic Win Sends Shockwaves Through College Football
Miami entered the matchup as a double-digit underdog against defending national champions Ohio State, but the Hurricanes’ balanced attack and opportunistic defense stifled the Buckeyes throughout the contest. Miami’s defense capitalized on key turnovers and disruptive play early, setting the tone for an upset that few analysts predicted. Yahoo Sports
The win advances Miami to the CFP semifinals and signals a major milestone for head coach Mario Cristobal, whose leadership throughout the 2025 season helped the Hurricanes rebound from midseason setbacks and earn their first ever playoff appearance.
Season Recap: From Top 2 to CFP Contender
The Hurricanes opened the 2025 campaign ranked among the nation’s elite, climbing as high as No. 2 in the AP Top 25 after big wins against Power Five opponents and establishing themselves as an ACC powerhouse early in the year.
Still, Miami’s journey wasn’t without adversity. A narrow overtime loss to SMU and a close defeat to Louisville tested the team’s resilience midseason. Despite those setbacks, the Hurricanes responded with a strong finish — including a signature win over Texas A&M in the CFP opening round — and secured their CFP berth.
Key Performers and Standouts
Quarterback Carson Beck continued to be a driving force for Miami’s offense, showcasing efficient passing and leadership throughout the season and into the postseason. Beck’s ability to make plays in critical moments helped keep drives alive and set up scoring opportunities in big games.
Defensively, Miami’s unit was relentless against Ohio State, disrupting quarterback Julian Sayin and forcing mistakes at pivotal junctures. The performance reflects the defensive identity Cristobal has emphasized all year — one built on pressure, takeaways and discipline.
A Growing Legacy in Coral Gables
The Hurricanes’ breakthrough as a College Football Playoff contender represents a significant cultural moment for the program. Once absent from title-contender conversations for decades, Miami has re-established itself as a national force, blending experienced coaching with elite recruiting and player development.
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