In what many are calling the shock of the season, the No. 10 Miami Hurricanes stunned the No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes with a 24-14 victory in the Cotton Bowl, advancing to the College Football Playoff semifinals. This college football post-match review breaks down the final score recap, standout player performances, key team stats, injury updates, and what’s next for both squads. Whether you’re searching for in-depth game analysis or highlights from this thrilling matchup, we’ve got you covered.
Final Score Recap: Miami Dominates in Upset Win
The Hurricanes jumped out to a commanding 14-0 halftime lead, thanks to a touchdown pass from quarterback Carson Beck to running back Mark Fletcher Jr. and a 72-yard interception return for a score by defensive back Keionte Scott. Ohio State fought back in the second half with touchdowns from running back Bo Jackson and wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, but Miami sealed the deal with a late rushing score from ChaMar Brown and a field goal. The final tally: Miami 24, Ohio State 14. This result not only ended the Buckeyes’ title defense but also marked Miami’s sixth straight win, proving their resilience in high-stakes playoff football.
Top Player Performances: Stars Who Shined Bright
Player performance was pivotal in this game analysis, with Miami’s defense and ground game stealing the show.
Carson Beck (Miami QB): Efficient and composed, Beck completed 19 of 26 passes for 138 yards and one touchdown, avoiding any turnovers in a pressure-packed environment.
Mark Fletcher Jr. (Miami RB): A dual-threat force, Fletcher rushed 19 times for 90 yards while adding two catches for 25 yards and a receiving touchdown.
Keionte Scott (Miami DB): His pick-six in the first half shifted momentum, highlighting Miami’s opportunistic secondary.
Jeremiah Smith (Ohio State WR): Despite the loss, Smith dazzled with seven receptions for 157 yards and a touchdown, showcasing why he’s a future NFL prospect.
Julian Sayin (Ohio State QB): Sayin threw for 287 yards and one touchdown but was plagued by two interceptions and five sacks, taking a -42 rushing yards on the night.
Miami’s defensive line, including Akheem Mesidor (2.0 sacks) and Rueben Bain Jr. (1.0 sack), relentlessly pressured Ohio State, while Caleb Downs (two forced fumbles) provided sparks for the Buckeyes’ defense.
Team Stats Breakdown: Defense and Ground Control
Diving into the team stats, Miami’s balanced attack and stout defense outmatched Ohio State’s passing game:
Category
Miami Hurricanes
Ohio State Buckeyes
Total Yards
291 (138 pass, 153 rush)
332 (287 pass, 45 rush)
Passing Yards
138
287
Rushing Yards
153
45
Turnovers
0
4 (2 INT, 2 fumbles)
Sacks
5
2
Field Goals
1/1 (49 yards)
0/1
Time of Possession
32:45
27:15
Miami’s rushing efficiency (153 yards) and zero turnovers were key, while Ohio State’s run game struggled against the Hurricanes’ front seven, which racked up seven tackles for loss and five sacks. The Buckeyes’ 332 total yards looked impressive on paper, but penalties and turnovers hindered their comeback efforts.
Injury Updates: Setbacks on Both Sides
Injuries added drama to this playoff clash. Miami’s star sophomore OJ Frederique Jr. was carted off the field, raising concerns for their semifinal run. On the Ohio State side, left tackle Austin Siereveld exited with a leg contusion in the first half. The Buckeyes were already without key players like wide receiver Quincy Porter, safety Malik Hartford, and offensive guard Tegra Tshabola, with Gabe VanSickle stepping in at guard. No long-term updates were available immediately post-game, but these absences clearly impacted Ohio State’s line play.
Next Fixtures: What’s Ahead for Both Teams
Looking forward, Miami advances to the CFP Semifinal at the Fiesta Bowl on January 8, where they’ll face either No. 3 Georgia or No. 6 Ole Miss—setting up another high-profile showdown. Ohio State, meanwhile, shifts focus to the 2026 season, opening at home against Ball State on September 5. This loss ends their campaign, but with young talent like Sayin and Smith, expect the Buckeyes to rebound strong.
This game analysis underscores Miami’s rise as a playoff contender, blending gritty defense with opportunistic offense. For more college football post-match reviews and player performance breakdowns, stay tuned!
