Miami Hurricanes Upset Ohio State in College Football Playoff Quarterfinals: A Recap of the Cotton Bowl Victory
Miami's Keionte Scott intercepted a pass from Ohio State's Julian Sayin and returned it for a 72-yard touchdown, putting the Hurricanes ahead by two touchdowns in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals. Miami went on to secure a 24-14 upset victory over the Buckeyes at the Cotton Bowl. The Hurricanes will now face the winner of the Georgia-Ole Miss quarterfinal in the Fiesta Bowl on Jan 8.
Both teams had three-and-outs on their first drives, with Miami's Carson Beck and Ohio State's Akheem Mesidor making key plays. Miami's Mark Fletcher Jr. fumbled in the red zone, but later redeemed himself by scoring the game's first touchdown. Ohio State's Julian Sayin connected with Jeremiah Smith for a big play, but Keionte Scott's interception return for a touchdown shifted the momentum in Miami's favor.
Miami's defense dominated the first half, limiting Ohio State's offense. The Buckeyes managed to score their first points in the second half, but Miami responded with a field goal to maintain their lead. Despite a late surge from Ohio State, Miami's Marty Brown sealed the victory with a touchdown run. Miami's defense, led by Mesidor and Bain, put pressure on Sayin throughout the game, recording five sacks in total.
Keionte Scott's interception return for a touchdown was a pivotal moment in the game, giving Miami the momentum they needed to secure the win. Despite a strong performance from Jeremiah Smith, who had 157 receiving yards, Ohio State couldn't overcome Miami's defense. Mark Fletcher Jr. had a solid game, bouncing back from a fumble to score a touchdown and contribute to Miami's rushing attack.
Ohio State struggled offensively in the first half but found success on the ground in the second half. Bo Jackson and Jeremiah Smith provided key plays for the Buckeyes, but Miami's defense ultimately held strong. Miami's victory was a team effort, with contributions from players like Marty Brown and Jakobe Thomas, who sealed the win with an interception. The Hurricanes will now prepare to face their next opponent in the Fiesta Bowl.