The Ohio State Buckeyes’ pursuit of back-to-back national championships ended abruptly on January 1, 2026, as they fell to the Miami Hurricanes, 24-14, in the College Football Playoff (CFP) quarterfinal at the Cotton Bowl. As the No. 2 seed, Ohio State entered the game with high expectations, but their performance was overshadowed by Miami’s dominance in crucial moments and physical play.
Ohio State struggled significantly, particularly in the first half, where they quickly found themselves trailing by 14 points. The Hurricanes set the tone early, executing a strong offensive strategy that culminated in an 83-yard touchdown drive. Miami quarterback Carson Beck showcased his experience, leading his team efficiently against a Buckeyes defense that had been ranked seventh nationally.
The Buckeyes’ offense faced an uphill battle from the outset, managing a mere nine yards in their initial two possessions. In an attempt to shift momentum, Ohio State head coach Ryan Day called for a deep pass, but disaster struck when Beck’s interception return for a touchdown extended Miami’s lead. This pivotal moment marked Ohio State’s first two-touchdown deficit since 2022, leaving them unable to recover.
Miami’s Tactical Advantage
Miami’s offensive line consistently overpowered Ohio State’s defense, converting seven of fourteen third-down attempts throughout the game. This included critical conversions during their scoring drives, where they demonstrated a clear edge in physicality. The Hurricanes’ success on third down was particularly notable, as they completed five of six attempts during their three touchdown drives.
Conversely, Ohio State’s offense struggled to find its rhythm, converting only three of ten third downs. Notably, they were ineffective in short-yardage situations, managing just one conversion out of five attempts when needing only a few yards. The inability to sustain drives put immense pressure on their defense, which ultimately faltered under the relentless Miami offense.
The Buckeyes’ offensive line, which had faced scrutiny all season, was unable to protect quarterback Julian Sayin, allowing five sacks and seven tackles for loss. Injuries and inconsistent play plagued the unit, leading to significant issues in both pass protection and run blocking. Miami’s defensive front, led by Rueben Bain Jr., was relentless, demonstrating their ability to disrupt Ohio State’s offensive plans.
Opportunities and Challenges Ahead
Despite the loss, certain players shone for Ohio State, particularly receiver Jeremiah Smith, who recorded seven receptions for 157 yards and a touchdown. His performance provided a glimmer of hope for the Buckeyes, showcasing his potential as a dynamic playmaker. Nonetheless, Ohio State’s overall offensive strategy and execution will require significant reassessment moving forward.
As the season concludes, attention turns to what lies ahead for the Buckeyes. Ryan Day will need to evaluate the offensive game planning and structure, particularly regarding the offensive line’s performance. The transfer portal and potential coaching changes could shape Ohio State’s strategy in the upcoming season.
Miami’s victory not only marks a significant achievement for their program but also reflects their growth as they advance further in the CFP. With a blend of talent and experience, the Hurricanes appear poised to challenge for the championship as they build momentum heading into the semifinals.
The road ahead for Ohio State will require introspection and adjustment, but the foundation remains strong for a program that has consistently been among the nation’s elite.