Miami delivered one of the most memorable performances of the season on New Year’s Eve, knocking off No. 2 Ohio State, 24–14, in the College Football Playoff quarterfinal at the Cotton Bowl. 

The Hurricanes’ victory over the defending national champions not only punched their ticket to the CFP semifinals at the Fiesta Bowl but also reinforced that this season is more than just a comeback story — it’s a legitimate championship quest. 

As Miami reflects on the win and prepares for its next challenge, three key takeaways stand out.

1. Offensive firepower must stay alive all game

Miami’s offense showed its ability to punch through elite defenses with efficiency and balance. Quarterback Carson Beck managed the game expertly, completing 19 of 26 passes for 138 yards and a touchdown, while dynamic playmakers like Mark Fletcher Jr. impacted the game both through the air and on the ground. 

Fletcher finished with 90 rushing yards and a receiving touchdown, and Beck even added 23 rushing yards of his own. 

What stood out most was Miami’s pacing. The Hurricanes stormed to a 14–0 halftime lead, setting the tone early and forcing Ohio State to play from behind. For Miami to keep advancing, this offensive balance — combining timely passes, physical running, and creative play-calling — must remain consistent throughout all four quarters. 

This consistency was seen in almost every quarter except the third, where it began to look like the Hurricanes were being jumped by the Ohio defense and the pace of play was an uncomfortable level of slow, with Ohio only trailing by three points. 

When the clock hit zero to signal the end of the third, it seemed like the Miami offense snapped back into the fiery power that was showcased previously in the first half, with quick decision-making by the offensive line sealing the deal with a last driving touchdown in the final two minutes. 

Stall outs or late-game droughts are costly against top competition, particularly as the stakes grow in the playoff semifinal. 

2. Defense’s aggressiveness is a defining strength

Miami’s defense was irresistible at key moments against Ohio State, and its aggressiveness continues to define this season. The Hurricanes forced multiple turnovers, including a 72-yard pick-six by Keionte Scott that flipped momentum and energized the team. 

Miami’s ability to attack quickly disrupted Ohio State’s rhythm and kept its offense off balance. 

“I thought our guys stumped up and really communicated well. I thought our guys handled it, they communicated, they settled down right away and I think our ability to play fast and swarm gets us into some favorable situations,” said defensive coordinator Corey Heatherman. 

With the mindset Miami walked into this, there was nothing to lose against the Buckeyes so why not attack? Well that ended up working out mighty well for the Hurricanes, with striking Julian Sayin and his staff quickly made 

Pressure in the backfield and ball hawking in coverage have been staples of Miami’s success, and those traits were on full display. This defensive identity, built on speed, physical play, and decisive pursuit, gives Miami an advantage against even the most talented offenses. 

Maintaining that urgency and discipline will be even more crucial in the Fiesta Bowl, where the Hurricanes will face a high-octane opponent coming out of the Sugar Bowl. 

3. This win reflects Miami’s season trajectory — and preps it for SEC-style aggression

Miami’s win over Ohio State isn’t just a single upset — it’s the culmination of a season shaped by resilience and growth. The Hurricanes finished the regular season strong, securing a CFP berth despite missing their conference title game, and already knocked off No. 7 Texas A&M in the playoff first round. 

This trajectory — building momentum through adversity — will serve Miami well as it prepares for arguably its toughest tests ahead. Ohio State’s offense showed the kind of aggressiveness that mirrors many SEC foes, with fast tempo and versatile playmakers capable of challenging any defense. 

With the Sugar Bowl kicking off at 7 pm CT, the Hurricanes will have a set opponent. Will it be Carson Beck’s former team facing off in Arizona, or will the Rebels, who have seen quite the shift in staff after having a head coach leave and promoting offensive coordinator Pete Golding.

With both teams being offensive powerhouses, it will fall on the defense to jump early to cause a sense of uneasiness that will set the tone for the semifinal that there is no yards given, after Miami allowed 1.9 yards per rush against the Buckeyes. There will be a need to do it again next week. 

As Miami gets ready for the Fiesta Bowl semifinal, preparation must emphasize game planning and adaptability to counter high-pressure, high-scoring attacks that characterize top SEC teams.