In one of the most surprising outcomes of this year’s College Football Playoff, the No. 10 Miami Hurricanes upset No. 2 Ohio State, 24‑14, in the Goodyear Cotton Bowl quarterfinal on Wednesday night, ending the Buckeyes’ quest for a repeat national title. FOX Sports+1
Miami, playing as underdogs against the defending national champions, jumped out to an early lead and never relinquished control. The Hurricanes seized momentum with a critical defensive play when Keionte Scott intercepted Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin and returned it 72 yards for a touchdown, igniting the Florida contingent and handing the Hurricanes a significant advantage. The Washington Post
Quarterback Carson Beck delivered a poised performance, completing 19 of 26 passes for 138 yards and a touchdown, while also adding 23 rushing yards on seven carries. Running back Mark Fletcher Jr. was a key offensive catalyst, rushing for 90 yards and scoring a crucial touchdown that helped seal the victory.
The Miami defense proved relentless throughout the night, sacking Sayin multiple times, forcing turnovers, and consistently pressuring the Buckeyes’ offense. Ohio State managed to cut into the deficit in the second half, but Miami responded with a late touchdown drive to maintain separation.
Despite 287 passing yards and a touchdown from Sayin, Ohio State’s offense struggled to finish drives and was hindered by two costly interceptions. The Buckeye defense, typically among the nation’s best, was unable to contain Miami’s balanced attack.
With the win, Miami (12‑2) earns a spot in the CFP semifinals at the Fiesta Bowl on January 8, where they will face the winner of the Georgia vs. Ole Miss matchup. The victory marks a milestone moment for the Hurricanes program — its first deep run in the expanded playoff era and a chance to make a national title game bid in its home stadium later this season.
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