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The 2025 Cotton Bowl, played this past December 31, delivered a standout performance by the Miami Hurricanes against the heavy favorites, the Ohio State Buckeyes. The extensive scouting work and preparation carried out by Mario Cristobal paid off for his players, who executed the game plan with precision and confidence.
The first half belonged entirely to Miami, as their defense was dominant and completely neutralized Julian Sayin, giving him no room to operate. At the same time, the Hurricanes' offense was sharp and efficient when it mattered most, capitalizing on its opportunities.
That combination allowed Miami to take a 14-0 lead. Although the Buckeyes managed to respond and tighten the score to 17-14, the Hurricanes' defense once again rose to the occasion and shut them down. A final rushing play sealed the outcome, confirming Miami's place in the semifinals and ending Ohio State's run.
Oddsmakers had Ohio State favored by nine points. Despite that, and in direct opposition to all predictions, Miami rose to the challenge. Their head coach once again demonstrated that detailed analysis of the opponent can be decisive. The Hurricanes contained and controlled the Buckeyes, preventing them from inflicting real damage.
For Ryan Day's squad, the game represented a brief appearance in the 2025 College Football Playoff. They had earned a bye in the opening round, which Miami used to defeat Texas A&M 10-3. The Hurricanes arrived with momentum, and that edge was evident throughout the contest.
The Buckeyes make immediate roster changes after the loss to Miami
With the departure of Brian Hartline, who was not present for the game against Miami in order to avoid distractions, according to Day, changes followed quickly after the painful defeat.
According to CBS Sports college football reporter Matt Zenitz, Ohio State expects to hire wide receivers coach Cortez Hankton in the near future. The move is part of an effort to reset and strengthen a key area of the roster.
Hankton is a former wide receiver who played in the NFL with the Jacksonville Jaguars for four seasons, from 2003 to 2006. He brings coaching experience from LSU and Georgia and has helped develop elite deep threats such as Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr. during his time in Baton Rouge.
He now faces the challenge of continuing to develop what may be the most talented receiver in the entire NCAA, Jeremiah Smith, as well as a major recruit expected to join the Buckeyes in 2026, Chris Henry Jr.
For now, Ohio State must process the loss inflicted by the Hurricanes, regroup as a program, and return stronger for the 2026 season.