The Ohio State Buckeyes suffered a crushing 24-14 loss to the Miami Hurricanes in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals at the Cotton Bowl. The game, which took place on New Year's Eve 2025, saw the Hurricanes pull off an upset that echoes one of the biggest surprises in college football history .
The Buckeyes, who entered the game as the defending national champions, were no match for the Hurricanes' defense. Miami's stifling performance on both sides of the ball was a key factor in their victory, showcasing their ability to execute under pressure and capitalize on Ohio State's miscues . The loss marks a significant setback for the Buckeyes, who had been on a roll, making it to the College Football Playoff for the third time in four years and seventh overall .
The series history between the two teams adds an extra layer of intrigue to this matchup. With Ohio State leading the series 3-2 overall, the Hurricanes' win not only snapped a long-standing trend but also cemented their place in the CFP era . The Hurricanes' path to the quarterfinals was marked by a 10-3 victory over Texas A&M in their CFP debut, a performance that set the stage for their historic upset .
For those who missed the action, the game can be viewed on ESPN. The network provided comprehensive coverage, including live updates and highlights, ensuring fans didn't miss a moment of the thrilling matchup .
The Cotton Bowl has always been a stage for memorable games, and this year's edition did not disappoint. The Hurricanes' dominant performance was a testament to their resilience and strategic play, leaving the Buckeyes to regroup and plan for the upcoming season .
With the loss, the focus now shifts to the Fiesta Bowl 2026. The Fiesta Bowl is part of the 12-team College Football Playoff, a format that has added excitement and unpredictability to the postseason . The Buckeyes will be looking to bounce back and secure their spot in the national championship picture, while the Hurricanes continue to make waves in the CFP era .
