College Football Playoff 2025: Miami’s Triumph and First-Round Highlights
The first round of the 2025 College Football Playoff just wrapped up, and wow, it was a wild ride. There were a couple of edge-of-your-seat road wins and two home teams that absolutely took care of business.
Let’s break down what happened and see what it all might mean for the next round. Some games left me shaking my head, others had me glued to the screen right up until the final whistle.
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Alabama’s Comeback Triumph Over Oklahoma
This one was all about the swings. Alabama pulled off a gutsy 17-point comeback to knock off Oklahoma, 34-24.
Oklahoma came out hot, jumping to a 17-0 lead. Then Alabama’s defense woke up, and the offense finally clicked.
Freshman Lotzeir Brooks made a huge impact, hauling in two TDs—including a clutch fourth-and-2 grab. Zabien Brown’s pick-six before halftime tied things up and really flipped the mood.
Oklahoma tried to rally late, but a couple of missed field goals from Tate Sandell pretty much ended their hopes.
Key Moments
- Oklahoma’s Early Dominance: The Sooners outgained Alabama 181-12 in the first 19 minutes.
- Alabama’s Defensive Adjustments: The Crimson Tide outscored Oklahoma 27-0 over the next 21 minutes.
- Special Teams Miscues: Oklahoma’s botched punt and missed field goals were game-changers.
Miami’s Gritty Win Over Texas A&M
This one was a slog. Miami edged Texas A&M 10-3, and honestly, the wind was a bigger factor than most of the players.
Mark Fletcher Jr. ripped off 172 yards, including a 56-yarder that set up the only touchdown. Miami’s defense, with Rueben Bain Jr. racking up three sacks, pretty much kept the Aggies in check.
Bryce Fitzgerald’s interception in the end zone with just 23 seconds left finally put it away. Miami’s got Ohio State next in the Cotton Bowl, and that should be interesting.
Defensive Standouts
- Mark Fletcher Jr.: 17 carries for 172 yards, including a game-changing 56-yard run.
- Rueben Bain Jr.: Recorded three sacks, disrupting Texas A&M’s offensive rhythm.
- Bryce Fitzgerald: His end-zone interception with 23 seconds left clinched the victory.
Ole Miss Overwhelms Tulane
Ole Miss just steamrolled Tulane, 41-10. Quarterback Trinidad Chambliss was in control, putting up over 300 total yards and three touchdowns.
He did miss a few snaps with an injury but really didn’t seem fazed. Tulane’s Jake Retzlaff had a rough night, losing two fumbles and tossing a pick.
Ole Miss turned those mistakes into points in a hurry and never looked back. Now they get a shot at Georgia in the Sugar Bowl, which feels like a big one.
Offensive Firepower
- Trinidad Chambliss: Completed 23 of 29 passes for 282 yards and a touchdown.
- Kewan Lacy: Rushed for 87 yards on 15 carries despite a shoulder injury.
- Receiving Corps: Deuce Alexander, De’Zhaun Stribling, and Dae’Quan Wright combined for 16 catches and 230 yards.
Oregon Dominates James Madison
Oregon’s offense just kept rolling in a 51-34 win over James Madison. The Ducks scored touchdowns on their first five drives, which is just wild.
Dante Moore was locked in, and his first 13 completions went for 307 yards. James Madison actually put up 509 yards themselves, but Oregon’s early explosion made it pretty much impossible to catch up.
Next up, Oregon faces Texas Tech in the Orange Bowl. That one could turn into a track meet, honestly.
Big Plays and Offensive Efficiency
- Dante Moore: Delivered precise throws, with his first 13 completions totaling 307 yards.
- Oregon’s Early Surge: Scored touchdowns on their first five possessions, setting the tone for the game.
- Defensive Struggles for JMU: Allowed five gains of 30-plus yards in the first half.
Looking Ahead: Quarterfinal Matchups
With round one in the rearview, the quarterfinals are coming in hot. Here’s what’s on the docket:
Oregon vs. Texas Tech
Both squads have been busy in the transfer portal, and their offenses can light it up. Can Oregon’s speed and precision handle Texas Tech’s tough defensive line? That’s the big question.
Ole Miss vs. Georgia
Ole Miss is out for revenge after their only loss this season. If they want a shot, they’ll have to tighten up their run defense—Georgia gashed them last time.
Miami vs. Ohio State
Miami’s defense really has their work cut out for them. They’ll need to match their last strong showing if they want any hope of slowing down Ohio State’s explosive offense.
The Buckeyes’ defense? It’s a brick wall—arguably the best in the country. Miami’s offense will have to get creative if they’re going to score against these guys.
Curious for more? Dive into the full breakdown over at ESPN.
