Miami Faces Ohio State in High-Stakes Cotton Bowl Clash

The No. 10 Miami Hurricanes meet the No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes in the Cotton Bowl Classic. This College Football Playoff quarterfinal kicks off on December 31st at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The winner advances to the national semifinals.

Miami aims to continue its surprising playoff run after a road upset over Texas A&M. Ohio State seeks to reclaim its dominant form following a loss in the Big Ten championship game. This high-stakes Cotton Bowl is a rematch of classic contests from years past.

Key Players and Matchup Dynamics Will Decide the Game

All eyes are on Miami quarterback Carson Beck. He managed a low-output victory against Texas A&M. Beck must deliver a stronger performance against Ohio State’s elite defense to keep the Hurricanes competitive.

For Ohio State, wide receiver Jeremiah Smith is the x-factor. The South Florida native chose the Buckeyes over his hometown Hurricanes. Smith is highly motivated to perform against friends on the Miami sideline in this pivotal game.

The matchup heavily favors Ohio State on paper. According to ESPN analysts, the Buckeyes’ defense is among the nation’s best. Miami’s path to victory requires a flawless game plan and standout performances from its stars.

Broader Implications for Recruiting and Program Trajectories

This game’s impact extends beyond a single playoff berth. A strong showing by Miami validates its rapid rise under its current coaching staff. It would also provide a powerful recruiting tool against national powers like Ohio State.

For the Buckeyes, a loss would be a significant setback. It would mark a second consecutive disappointing finish to a season. A win, however, re-establishes them as a perennial title contender and maintains their recruiting edge.

The result will shape the offseason narrative for both historic programs. A Miami upset sends shockwaves through college football. An Ohio State victory reaffirms the established hierarchy as the sport evolves.

The 2025 Cotton Bowl Classic is more than a playoff game. It is a defining moment for both the Miami and Ohio State football programs. The outcome will resonate on the field and in living rooms of future recruits for years to come.

Info at your fingertips

What time is the Cotton Bowl game?

The game kicks off at 7:30 PM Eastern Time on December 31st. It will be broadcast live on ESPN from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

What are the stakes for the Miami vs. Ohio State game?

The winner advances to the College Football Playoff semifinals. The loser’s season ends in the Cotton Bowl. It is a single-elimination national quarterfinal.

How did Miami qualify for the Cotton Bowl?

Miami earned an at-large berth in the expanded 12-team playoff. They then won a first-round road game against Texas A&M to reach this quarterfinal matchup with Ohio State.

What is the history between Miami and Ohio State?

The series is tied 2-2. Their most famous meeting was the 2002 BCS National Championship, which Ohio State won in double overtime. They last played in 2011.

Who is favored to win the Cotton Bowl?

Ohio State is a significant favorite according to most sportsbooks. Their highly-ranked defense and offensive talent give them the edge on paper over the underdog Hurricanes.

What are the key injuries for Miami?

Miami will be without defensive back Damari Brown and linebacker Malik Bryant. Several other depth players are also sidelined, as reported in the team’s official injury report.

 

Trusted Sources: ESPN, Official Cotton Bowl Classic Notes, Ohio State Athletics, Miami Hurricanes Athletics.