For many college football fans, Modern Year’s Eve is synonymous with bowl games and the promise of a thrilling finish to the season. But for one Miami Hurricanes fan, and now, many others, the 2025 Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic against the Ohio State Buckeyes wasn’t just a game; it was a defining moment. The Hurricanes’ stunning 24-14 victory over the then-No. 2 ranked Buckeyes has earned the title of “Game of the Year” in the State of the U awards, a contest decided by fans and analysts alike. The win propelled Miami into the College Football Playoff National Championship game and cemented a memorable night for a family celebrating together.
The game, played on December 31, 2025, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, was a clash of titans. While Ohio State entered the contest as heavy favorites, Miami proved to be the more resilient and opportunistic team. The Hurricanes’ dominant defensive performance and timely offensive execution shocked the college football world, delivering a New Year’s Eve upset that will be talked about for years to come. The victory wasn’t just about the score; it was about the atmosphere, the emotion, and the shared experience for those in attendance and watching at home.
The early stages of the game didn’t necessarily foreshadow the outcome. Miami’s opening drive stalled, resulting in a three-and-out. Although, the Hurricanes’ defense quickly responded, with a combined sack by Bain and Mesidor on Ohio State’s first possession signaling their intent. The first touchdown of the game came courtesy of a well-executed misdirection play, with Carson Beck connecting with Mark Fletcher Jr. For a 9-yard score, putting Miami ahead 7-0.
But it was Keionte Scott’s interception return for a 72-yard touchdown that truly shifted the momentum. Scott’s read on Julian Sayin’s pass was impeccable, and his subsequent run into the endzone ignited the Miami sideline and sent shockwaves through the stadium. The play, quickly dubbed the “SOTU Play of the Year,” extended Miami’s lead to 14-0 and left Ohio State reeling. According to ESPN, the Hurricanes led 14-0 at halftime, a testament to their early dominance. ESPN Game Summary
The second half saw Ohio State attempt to mount a comeback. Bo Jackson scored a 1-yard touchdown run in the third quarter, narrowing the gap. However, Miami responded with a 49-yard field goal by Carter Davis, maintaining a 17-7 lead. Ohio State managed another touchdown in the fourth quarter, with Jeremiah Smith hauling in a 14-yard pass from Julian Sayin, but Miami’s defense held strong. A late touchdown run by CharMar Brown sealed the victory for the Hurricanes, capping off a remarkable performance.
The win over Ohio State wasn’t just a significant victory for the Miami Hurricanes; it also carried broader implications for the College Football Playoff. The victory secured Miami’s place in the 2026 CFP National Championship Game, which will be played in their home stadium. The win also lifted what some fans referred to as the “Fiesta Bowl curse,” a reference to past struggles in that particular bowl game.
The Hurricanes’ success was a team effort, with standout performances on both sides of the ball. Carson Beck finished the game with 19 completed passes for 138 yards and one touchdown, while Mark Fletcher Jr. Contributed 90 rushing yards and a touchdown. Defensively, Keionte Scott’s interception return was the defining play, but the entire unit played with intensity and determination. Ohio State’s Julian Sayin completed 22 of 35 passes for 287 yards and one touchdown, but was hampered by two interceptions. ESPN Game Stats
Looking ahead, the Miami Hurricanes will carry the momentum from this victory into the National Championship game. The team will undoubtedly face a tough opponent, but the confidence gained from defeating Ohio State will be invaluable. The 2025 Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic will be remembered as a turning point for the Miami Hurricanes football program, a moment of triumph that will inspire future generations of players and fans.
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