Miami Advances in CFP Quarterfinal With 24–14 Cotton Bowl Classic Win Over Ohio State

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The latest breaking update from the College Football Playoff quarterfinal at the Cotton Bowl Classic saw Miami deliver a composed 24–14 victory over Ohio State, closing strong on college football’s biggest postseason stage and advancing with authority against a 12–1 Buckeyes team entering the game off a loss to Indiana.

Miami established control early by dictating tempo and winning the field position battle, even as points came at a premium in the opening quarter. Quarterback Carson Beck managed the offense efficiently, emphasizing ball control and patience against an Ohio State defense built to force quick decisions. The Hurricanes broke through early in the second quarter when Beck capped a 13 play, 83 yard drive with a 9 yard touchdown pass to Mark Fletcher Jr., a possession that set the tone for the remainder of the game.

The defining moment of the first half came minutes later when defensive back Keionte Scott intercepted Julian Sayin and returned it 72 yards for a touchdown. The pick six pushed Miami’s lead to 14–0 and shifted momentum firmly in the Hurricanes’ favor. Ohio State struggled to capitalize on scoring opportunities before halftime, including a missed 49–yard field goal attempt, and entered the break scoreless despite multiple promising drives.

Ohio State responded with urgency to open the second half, putting together an 11 play, 82–yard drive that ended with a 1–yard touchdown run by Bryson Jackson. The score cut the deficit to 14–7 and briefly reignited the Buckeyes’ hopes as they leaned more heavily on the run game and quick throws to wide receiver Jeremiah Smith.

Miami answered without panic. A 49 yard field goal by Carter Davis restored a 17–7 lead and reinforced the Hurricanes’ ability to respond in high pressure moments. Ohio State made one final push early in the fourth quarter when Sayin connected with Smith on a 14 yard touchdown pass, trimming the margin to 17–14 and setting up a tense finish inside AT&T Stadium.

The Hurricanes delivered the decisive sequence on the ensuing possession. Miami marched 70 yards on 10 plays, draining more than 5 minutes off the clock and wearing down the Buckeyes’ defense. Chris Brown Jr. finished the drive with a 5 yard touchdown run with 55 seconds remaining, effectively sealing the outcome of the Cotton Bowl Classic. Ohio State’s final possession ended with an interception, allowing Miami to close out the game in victory formation.

The impact of the win extends beyond the final score. Miami showcased late game discipline, balanced offensive execution, and a defense capable of forcing timely turnovers against a playoff tested opponent. For Ohio State, the loss highlighted ongoing challenges with consistency and red zone efficiency despite flashes from its young quarterback and playmakers.

As the College Football Playoff timeline moves forward, Miami advances with momentum and confidence, while Ohio State turns its focus to offseason adjustments following an early CFP exit.