By Casz “C2” Clayton
College Station, TX — Miami and Texas A&M went toe to toe in a defensive battle that stayed 0–0 deep into the game, turning the College Football Playoff Round One matchup into a test of patience, toughness, and execution. Every yard was earned, every mistake magnified.
Miami eventually broke through by staying committed to its identity.
Mark Fletcher Jr. became the steady force the Hurricanes needed, carrying the ball 17 times for 172 rushing yards and consistently winning between the tackles. His downhill running kept Miami alive during a night when points were hard to come by and allowed the Hurricanes to control possession and field position in a low-scoring environment.
The breakthrough came when Malachi Toney found the end zone, delivering the game’s defining touchdown in a contest where one score felt like a turning point. Toney impacted the game in multiple ways, finishing with 22 all-purpose yards receiving and contributing in the return game, giving Miami the spark it needed when offense was at a premium.
Defense was the headline all night.
Miami held Texas A&M without an offensive touchdown, limited the Aggies to 89 net rushing yards, and consistently forced long-yardage situations. Bryce Fitzgerald flipped the game with two interceptions, halting momentum and preventing Texas A&M from capitalizing on opportunities. The Hurricanes finished with seven sacks and nine tackles for loss, setting the tone at the line of scrimmage and never allowing the Aggies to get comfortable.
Despite Texas A&M outgaining Miami in total offense, the Hurricanes won the most important moments. Miami forced turnovers, controlled the trenches, and made the lone touchdown stand in a game defined by defense, missed field goals, and field-position battles.
After the win, head coach Mario Cristobal said his team belongs in the College Football Playoff, and this performance backed it up. Miami didn’t need style points. They needed toughness, discipline, and belief.
Next for Miami, the Hurricanes move deeper into the playoff with confidence built on winning an ugly, hard-nosed football game. In a postseason setting where margins are thin, Miami proved they can survive, adjust, and advance.
