Miami vs. Ohio State: Cotton Bowl Date, Time, and Key Details
The anticipation is thick in the air as college football fans get ready for a matchup that’s been brewing for over two decades: Miami vs. Ohio State in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals at the Cotton Bowl Classic.
This showdown kicks off Dec. 31 at 7:30 p.m. ET and, honestly, it’s hard not to get a little amped. Two powerhouse programs, a rematch nearly 23 years in the making—there’s a lot at stake.
Miami, with a defense that’s found its groove and a breakout year from running back Mark Fletcher, is set to challenge the reigning national champs. Ohio State brings their explosive offense and that intimidating, top-ranked defense.
Whoever comes out on top? They’re off to the Fiesta Bowl, one step closer to the national championship at Hard Rock Stadium. The dream feels real for both sides.
Contents
The Road to the Cotton Bowl
For Miami, getting here has been anything but easy. Last year, they just missed the College Football Playoff and settled for the Pop-Tarts Bowl.
This season, even without an ACC championship, the Hurricanes turned things around. Pass rushers Rueben Bain and Akheem Mesidor anchored a defense that went from shaky to one of the best in the country.
That defense showed up big in a gritty 10-3 win over Texas A&M, punching their ticket to the CFP. It wasn’t always pretty, but they got the job done.
Miami’s Defensive Turnaround
Miami’s defense has been surprisingly strong this season. Rueben Bain and Akheem Mesidor, in particular, have been forces up front.
Their knack for getting after quarterbacks and blowing up plays has changed the tone for this team. But now, they’ve got to face Ohio State’s wild offense, with Heisman finalist Julian Sayin and All-American Jeremiah Smith waiting on the other side.
Mark Fletcher’s Breakout Performance
Mark Fletcher’s been a revelation at running back, especially in that must-win game against Texas A&M. His performance there? It was the kind of day players dream about.
But let’s be real—Ohio State’s defense is a different animal. Fletcher will need every ounce of his talent and grit to make a dent against them.
Ohio State: The Reigning Champions
Ohio State rolls into the Cotton Bowl as the defending champs, and they’re undefeated at 12-0. Their formula? Relentless defense and an offense that can light up the scoreboard.
Caleb Downs has been a defensive anchor, helping the Buckeyes keep their spot as the nation’s top defense. On offense, Julian Sayin and Jeremiah Smith have been electric all season.
Caleb Downs and the Defensive Juggernaut
Ohio State’s defense, with Caleb Downs leading the way, has been locked in all year. They’re ranked No. 1 for a reason—they just don’t give up much.
That defense will get tested against Miami, especially with Mark Fletcher running the ball. Stopping him could be the difference.
Julian Sayin and Jeremiah Smith: Offensive Powerhouses
Julian Sayin and Jeremiah Smith have been the spark for Ohio State’s offense. They’re a handful for any defense, making big plays look routine.
Can Miami’s defense slow them down? That’s the big question, and honestly, it’s a tall order.
The Stakes: A Shot at the National Championship
The winner here heads to the Fiesta Bowl, facing either Georgia or Ole Miss in the semifinals. But it’s not just about advancing—it’s about a shot at the national title, right on Miami’s home turf at Hard Rock Stadium.
It doesn’t get much bigger than this. Both teams know what’s on the line, and you can bet they’ll leave everything out there.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Miami’s Defense vs. Ohio State’s Offense: Can Miami’s pass rushers get to Julian Sayin and slow down Jeremiah Smith?
- Mark Fletcher vs. Ohio State’s Defense: Is Fletcher going to find any daylight against this defense?
- Carson Beck’s Performance: Will Beck make those critical plays that could tip things Miami’s way?
Game Details
The Cotton Bowl takes place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, with kickoff at 7:30 p.m. ET. You can catch the broadcast on ESPN, or stream it on Fubo if that’s more your style—new users can even snag a free trial.
If you’re thinking about going in person, tickets are up for grabs on StubHub. Should be a wild one.
Conclusion
The Miami vs. Ohio State matchup in the Cotton Bowl is shaping up to be one of the most exciting games of the season.
Both teams bring strong defenses and dynamic offenses, so this one could get wild.
The stakes? Pretty high—winner gets a shot at the national championship.
If you’re a fan, it’s hard to imagine skipping this showdown.
Want more info? There’s a full article over at the Palm Beach Post if you’re curious.
