Miami vs Pittsburgh: Hurricanes Crush Panthers to Keep Playoff Hopes Alive

The Miami Hurricanes delivered a statement win against the Pittsburgh Panthers. The final score was 38-7 at Acrisure Stadium on November 29. This dominant victory keeps Miami’s slim College Football Playoff and ACC Championship hopes on life support.

According to Associated Press coverage, the game was effectively over by halftime. Miami’s offense was relentless, scoring 35 unanswered points. The loss eliminates Pittsburgh from ACC title contention despite a strong season.

Historic Performance from Freshman Star

Freshman receiver Malachi Toney had a record-breaking night for Miami. He caught 13 passes, setting a new Miami freshman record. Toney finished with 156 total scrimmage yards and two touchdowns.

His versatility was on full display. Toney also threw a 9-yard touchdown pass on a trick play. This performance cemented his status as a future star for the Hurricanes’ program.

Quarterback Carson Beck managed the game efficiently. He completed 23 of 29 passes for 267 yards. Beck threw three touchdown passes and one interception in the win.

A Complicated Path to the ACC Title Game

Miami’s playoff destiny is now out of its hands. The Hurricanes need specific results across the conference next week. They require SMU to lose and several other tiebreakers to fall their way.

Reuters noted the complexity of the ACC’s tiebreaker system. Miami finished with a 6-2 conference record, identical to Pittsburgh’s. Without a conference championship, their playoff resume lacks a key component.

Head coach Mario Cristobal made his team’s case after the game. He argued that championship teams win big games on the road in November. The dominant nature of this victory supports his argument.

Playoff Committee Faces Tough Decision

The College Football Playoff selection committee now has a difficult evaluation. Miami is currently ranked outside the top ten. A convincing road win against a ranked opponent is a strong final argument.

However, other one-loss teams from major conferences also have claims. The committee values conference championships highly. Miami may need chaos elsewhere to climb into the top ten.

The final rankings will be revealed on December 6. Miami fans will watch other games closely next weekend. Their team has done all it can on the field.

The Miami vs Pittsburgh result shows a team peaking at the right time. Whether it’s enough for the playoff remains the season’s defining question.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What does Miami need to reach the ACC Championship Game?

Miami needs several specific outcomes next weekend. They require SMU to lose to California and Duke to lose to Wake Forest. Other tiebreaker scenarios also must fall in their favor.

How did Pittsburgh’s season end?

Pittsburgh finished with an 8-4 overall record. The Panthers went 6-2 in ACC play but are eliminated from title contention. The Senior Day loss was a disappointing end to a solid season.

What records did Malachi Toney break?

Toney set a Miami freshman record with 13 receptions. He amassed 156 scrimmage yards and scored two touchdowns. His performance included throwing a touchdown pass on a trick play.

Can Miami still make the College Football Playoff?

It is possible but unlikely without an ACC title. The Hurricanes would need to jump several teams in the rankings. They also need the selection committee to highly value their dominant late-season wins.

What was the key to Miami’s victory?

Miami’s balanced offensive attack was the key. The Hurricanes scored 35 unanswered points after an early tie. The defense completely shut down Pittsburgh’s offense after the first quarter.