In a surprising turn of events, the Ohio State Buckeyes faced a 24-14 defeat against the Miami Hurricanes in the College Football Playoff (CFP) quarterfinal held at the Cotton Bowl on December 31, 2025. Entering the playoffs as the No. 2 seed and aiming for a second consecutive championship, Ohio State’s ambitions were dashed as the 10-seed Hurricanes dominated key moments and showcased superior physicality.
The Buckeyes struggled from the outset, falling into a 14-point deficit early in the second quarter. Ohio State’s head coach, Ryan Day, acknowledged the team’s lackluster performance, stating that they were “pushed around” and unable to find their rhythm. Miami’s defense, led by a relentless front line, consistently pressured Ohio State’s offense, which managed only nine yards in its first two possessions.
Miami’s quarterback, Carson Beck, executed a strategic game plan that capitalized on Ohio State’s weaknesses. The Hurricanes opened the scoring with a methodical 13-play, 83-yard drive, converting crucial third downs to establish a 7-0 lead. Their ability to maintain momentum was evident as they converted 7-of-14 third down opportunities throughout the game, including five of six during their scoring drives.
Ohio State’s offense faced significant challenges, particularly from an offensive line that struggled to protect their quarterback. Beck’s interception return for a touchdown by Keionte Scott marked a significant turning point, putting Ohio State in a 14-0 hole — a deficit they could not overcome. The Buckeyes managed only three conversions out of ten third down attempts, a stark contrast to Miami’s effectiveness.
In the second half, Ohio State briefly narrowed the gap with a touchdown from Bo Jackson, but Miami responded decisively. The Hurricanes executed a game-sealing drive with precision, culminating in a touchdown that left Ohio State trailing by ten points with under a minute remaining.
Despite the defeat, standout performances emerged from Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith, who recorded seven receptions for 157 yards and a touchdown, showcasing his potential as a key offensive weapon moving forward.
As Ohio State reflects on its disappointing exit from the CFP, questions loom regarding the team’s offensive strategy and the effectiveness of their coaching staff. The performance of the offensive line, which has been under scrutiny throughout the season, will likely prompt evaluations and potential changes in the offseason.
Day’s future as head coach appears secure, yet it is clear that adjustments are necessary to reclaim Ohio State’s position among the elite teams in college football. The program must address its vulnerabilities, particularly in the trenches, to prevent a repeat of this season’s shortcomings. As the Buckeyes look toward next season, the challenge will be not only to recover from this defeat but also to reestablish their dominance in the competitive landscape of college football.
