In a thrilling College Football Playoff semifinal, the Miami Hurricanes triumphed over the Ole Miss Rebels, winning 31-27 at the Fiesta Bowl in Glendale, Arizona. This victory propels Miami into the national championship game, marking their first chance at the title since 2001.
Miami Advances to the National Championship
With just 18 seconds remaining on the clock, quarterback Carson Beck scored a critical three-yard touchdown, securing Miami’s victory. Beck showcased his skills by passing for 268 yards, completing two touchdowns, and throwing one interception.
A Season of Resilience
The 10th-ranked Hurricanes finished the season with a record of 13-2. Despite not participating in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) championship game, they earned a spot in the College Football Playoff amid some controversy. Miami’s defense proved formidable, restricting Texas A&M and the reigning national champions, Ohio State, to a total of just 17 points in their road to the semifinals.
Key Plays in the Fiesta Bowl
- Malachi Toney scored a dynamic 36-yard touchdown, extending Miami’s lead to 24-19.
- Trinidad Chambliss, a former Division II champion, connected with Dae’Quan Wright for a 24-yard touchdown, bringing Ole Miss back into contention.
- Lucas Carneiro contributed with four field goals, including a notable 21-yard kick that briefly put Ole Miss ahead.
Even with the absence of their coach, Lane Kiffin, who left for LSU, Ole Miss maintained their composure throughout the game. Coach Pete Golding commented on the team’s remarkable bond during a challenging season.
Statistics from the Game
| Team | Score | Record |
|---|---|---|
| Miami Hurricanes | 31 | 13-2 |
| Ole Miss Rebels | 27 | 13-2 |
Miami’s defense, under the guidance of coordinator Corey Hetherman, has significantly improved this season, leading to their success on the field. The Hurricanes encountered early resistance, holding Ole Miss to negative yardage in the first quarter before conceding a 73-yard touchdown run by Kewan Lacy, one of the nation’s top rushers.
As Miami prepares for the national championship on January 19 against either Indiana or Oregon, Coach Mario Cristobal praised Beck, emphasizing his determination and leadership. “He’s hungry, driven, and committed to his team’s success,” Cristobal remarked.
Conclusion
This exhilarating Fiesta Bowl clash not only showcased Miami’s resilience but also solidified their return to the forefront of college football. As they head home to compete for a national title, the Hurricanes aim to reclaim their glory on the national stage.
