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2026-01-02 · news · Read time: ~ 4 min
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Miami defeats Ohio State 24-14 in the CFP quarterfinal at the Cotton Bowl, advancing to the semifinals and ending Ohio State's title defense.

What happened

In a surprising turn of events, the Miami Hurricanes defeated the defending national champion Ohio State Buckeyes with a score of 24-14. This victory took place during the College Football Playoff quarterfinal at the Cotton Bowl. A pivotal moment in the game was when Keionte Scott returned an interception 72 yards for a touchdown, helping secure Miami's lead.

Key facts

  • Miami Hurricanes won against Ohio State Buckeyes with a score of 24-14.
  • The game was part of the College Football Playoff quarterfinals held at the Cotton Bowl.
  • Keionte Scott's 72-yard interception return for a touchdown was a critical play.
  • Miami, ranked No. 10, managed to maintain their lead throughout the game.
  • The victory marks a significant upset over the defending national champions.

Background & context

The College Football Playoff (CFP) is a postseason tournament used to determine the national champion of the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision. It replaced the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) in 2014, aiming to provide a more definitive and competitive path to the national title. The CFP features four teams selected by a committee, culminating in two semifinal games and a national championship. The Cotton Bowl, located in Dallas, Texas, is one of the historic venues often used for significant college football games. It has hosted numerous memorable matches and is part of the New Year's Six, a group of major bowl games in the CFP rotation. Miami's football team, known as the Hurricanes, has a storied history with multiple national championships, although recent years have seen varied performance levels. The program has been working to return to its former glory, and this victory over Ohio State is a step in that direction. Ohio State, a perennial powerhouse in college football, entered the game as the defending national champion, making Miami's victory particularly notable. The Buckeyes have a rich tradition of success, consistently competing at the highest levels and producing numerous NFL players.

Why it matters

For US readers, this game highlights the unpredictable nature of college football and the excitement of the College Football Playoff system. Miami's victory over a top-ranked team like Ohio State demonstrates the competitive balance and potential for upsets, which are key attractions of college sports. It also underscores Miami's resurgence in college football, potentially signaling a shift in the competitive landscape. The CFP system is designed to create more opportunities for teams to compete for the national title, and upsets like this one illustrate the system's effectiveness in fostering competition. Miami's win could have broader implications for recruiting and program development, as success in high-profile games often attracts top talent and increases national visibility.

Stakeholders & viewpoints

  • Miami Hurricanes: The team and its supporters are likely celebrating a significant achievement, as defeating a defending champion can boost morale and program prestige. This victory may enhance the program's reputation and help in recruiting efforts.
  • Ohio State Buckeyes: As the defending champions, the loss is a disappointment, prompting reflection on what went wrong and how to improve for future seasons. The Buckeyes will likely analyze their performance to identify areas for improvement and maintain their status as a top-tier program.
  • College Football Fans: Fans of the sport may view this game as an exciting example of the unpredictability and drama that college football offers. Upsets are a beloved aspect of sports, and this game adds to the rich tapestry of college football history.
  • Recruiters and Analysts: This game may influence recruiting dynamics, as Miami's victory could attract attention from high school prospects. Analysts will be watching to see how this game impacts rankings and perceptions of both programs.

Timeline & what to watch next

  • The College Football Playoff will continue with the semifinals, where Miami will face their next opponent. The outcome of these games will determine who advances to the national championship.
  • Observers will be watching to see if Miami can maintain their momentum and advance further in the playoffs. Their performance in the semifinals will be closely scrutinized to assess their potential as a championship contender.
  • Ohio State will likely begin preparations for the next season, focusing on rebuilding and addressing any weaknesses exposed during this game. The Buckeyes will aim to return to the CFP and reclaim their status as national champions.
  • The broader college football landscape may shift as a result of this game, with potential implications for rankings, recruiting, and program strategies.

Sources

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