Written by Nate Bush
The 90th Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic is set to deliver one of the most compelling quarterfinal matchups of the College Football Playoff. On New Year’s Eve at 7:30 PM ET at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The second-seeded Ohio State Buckeyes (12–1) will square off against the tenth-seeded Miami Hurricanes (11–2), with the winner earning a trip to the Fiesta Bowl semifinal to face either Georgia or Ole Miss.
Miami enters this game riding on a high note after earning its first playoff victory, a hard-fought 10–3 win over Texas A&M.
The Hurricanes’ defense dominated that contest, tallying seven sacks and forcing turnovers in what became the first scoreless first half in College Football Playoff history. While Miami’s defense was stellar, freshman wide receiver Malachi Toney struggled, fumbling on a key play and missing a potential touchdown. His ability to bounce back will be crucial against Ohio State’s top-ranked defense.
For Ohio State, this marks a third straight Cotton Bowl appearance and seventh playoff trip since 2014. The defending national champions are well-versed on the big stage, having captured two titles in the playoff era. However, they enter the postseason with something to prove after a surprising 13–10 loss to Indiana in the Big Ten Championship Game.
Interestingly, the Buckeyes followed a similar path last season—losing their conference title game before winning the national championship. Several matchups will determine the outcome. Star wideout Jeremiah Smith, who led the Big Ten with 80 receptions and more than 1,000 yards, remains Ohio State’s biggest offensive weapon.
Quarterback Julian Sayin has been remarkably efficient, throwing for over 3,000 yards and 31 touchdowns through 12 games while ranking second nationally in QBR. Ohio State’s running backs combined for 1,618 total rushing yards, (20) touchdowns on 340 carries, led by primary back Bo Jackson (725 yards), James Peoples (289 yards), and CJ Donaldson (278 yards).
Yet Miami’s pass rush could cause problems—the Hurricanes rank fourth in the country with 41 sacks, spearheaded by standout defenders Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor.
Defensively, Ohio State possesses a major edge. Safety Caleb Downs has been one of the most impactful players in college football, and the Buckeyes’ defensive line has smothered opponents throughout the season.
The all-time series between these programs is tied 2–2. Miami won their last meeting in 2011, while Ohio State’s legendary double-overtime win in the 2003 Fiesta Bowl remains one of college football’s most iconic championship moments.
Ultimately, Ohio State’s overall talent and depth make it the favorite. But if Miami’s defense can disrupt the Buckeyes’ rhythm and head coach Mario Cristobal’s team can set the physical tone, another playoff surprise may be in the making.
