Miami vs. Ole Miss CFP Semifinal Preview: How to Watch, Key Stats
The stage is set for an electrifying showdown in the College Football Playoff (CFP) as the Miami Hurricanes face off against the Ole Miss Rebels in the Fiesta Bowl on Thursday, January 8.
Both teams are making their CFP debuts, and the stakes couldn’t be higher with a spot in the National Championship on the line.
The winner of this clash will advance to play either Oregon or Indiana on January 19.
Here’s an in-depth look at what to expect from this highly anticipated semifinal, including key players, head-to-head records, and how to catch all the action.
Contents
Game Details and How to Watch
The Miami Hurricanes (ranked 10th) will take on the Ole Miss Rebels (ranked 6th) at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, AZ.
The game is scheduled for Thursday, January 8, at 7:30 p.m. ET and will be broadcast live on ESPN.
This matchup is a must-watch for college football fans.
Both teams have shown exceptional skill and resilience throughout the season.
Road to the Semifinals
Ole Miss Rebels
The Rebels have had an impressive journey to the semifinals.
They secured their spot by defeating Tulane 41-10 in the first round and then clinched a thrilling 39-34 victory over Georgia in the quarterfinals at the Sugar Bowl.
This will be the third game for Pete Golding as head coach of Ole Miss, following Lane Kiffin’s departure to LSU.
Senior quarterback Trinidad Chambliss has been a standout player for the Rebels, throwing for 362 yards and two touchdowns in the upset against Georgia.
Chambliss, along with running back Kewan Lacy, who is ranked third nationally for rushing yards with 1,464, forms a formidable offensive duo.
Wide receiver Trey Wallace, who previously played in the Fiesta Bowl for Penn State, also had a season-high nine catches in the quarterfinal game against Georgia.
Miami Hurricanes
The Hurricanes have also had a remarkable run to the semifinals.
They pulled off a major upset by defeating Ohio State 24-14 in the quarterfinals at the Cotton Bowl, following a 10-3 victory over Texas A&M in the first round.
Miami’s defense has been a force to be reckoned with, leading the nation with 46 sacks and not allowing more than 26 points in any game this season.
Quarterback Carson Beck, who has experience playing against Ole Miss from his time at Georgia, threw for 138 yards and one touchdown against Ohio State.
Freshman wide receiver Malachi Toney has also been a key player for the Hurricanes, ranking fourth nationally with 94 receptions for 1,008 yards.
Key Players to Watch
Trinidad Chambliss – Ole Miss
Chambliss has been a revelation for the Rebels, stepping into the starting quarterback role and delivering outstanding performances.
His ability to make big plays under pressure will be crucial for Ole Miss in this high-stakes game.
Kewan Lacy – Ole Miss
Lacy’s exceptional rushing ability has been a cornerstone of the Rebels’ offense.
With 1,464 rushing yards this season, he is a player that Miami’s defense will need to keep a close eye on.
Carson Beck – Miami
Beck’s experience and leadership have been invaluable for the Hurricanes.
Having faced Ole Miss before, he knows what to expect and will be looking to guide Miami to victory with his precise passing and strategic playmaking.
Malachi Toney – Miami
Toney has had a stellar season as a freshman wide receiver, with 94 receptions for 1,008 yards.
His ability to make crucial catches in key moments will be vital for Miami’s offensive success.
Head-to-Head Record
Historically, Ole Miss leads the overall series against Miami with a 2-1 record.
The last time these two teams met was in 1951, when the Hurricanes emerged victorious with a 20-7 win.
Given the long gap since their last encounter, this game promises to bring a fresh and exciting dynamic to their rivalry.
What to Expect
Both teams have shown they can pull off upsets and deliver high-caliber performances.
Miami’s defense will be tested by Ole Miss’s explosive offense, led by Chambliss and Lacy.
On the other hand, the Hurricanes’ balanced approach, with Beck’s experience and Toney’s receiving skills, will challenge the Rebels’ defensive strategies.
Fans can expect a thrilling and closely contested game, with both teams leaving everything on the field for a shot at the National Championship.
For more detailed insights and analysis, you can check out the full preview here.
Conclusion
The Fiesta Bowl matchup between Miami and Ole Miss is shaping up to be something special. Both teams are making their first-ever appearances in the College Football Playoff, and honestly, that alone ramps up the stakes.
With a trip to the National Championship on the line, you can almost feel the tension building already. Hurricanes or Rebels, whichever side you’re on, this is one of those games you just have to watch.
Catch it live on January 8 at 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN. It’s probably going to be a night to remember.
