Ole Miss Battles Miami in College Football Playoff Semifinal
In a remarkable turnaround from last season, the Miami Hurricanes are set to face the Ole Miss Rebels in the College Football Playoff (CFP) Semifinal. Head coach Mario Cristobal’s leadership has brought the team back into contention after a challenging previous season where they missed playoff opportunities.
Miami’s Journey to the CFP
Last year, Miami fans expressed discontent, calling for Cristobal’s dismissal after a disappointing end to the 2024 season. The Hurricanes, previously ranked as high as No. 4, suffered shocking losses to Georgia Tech and Syracuse, which derailed their playoff hopes. Miami’s fanbase was disappointed after wasting the potential of Cam Ward, a generational quarterback who was the top pick in the NFL Draft.
Learning from the past, Cristobal restructured the team by bringing in Carson Beck, a former Georgia quarterback, through the transfer portal. This move bolstered their roster, and in 2025, the Hurricanes began strongly.
Season Highlights
- Opened the season with a victory against Notre Dame.
- Achieved a ranking as high as No. 2 in the nation.
- Finished the regular season with a 10-2 record.
- Missed the ACC title game but secured the final at-large bid for the CFP.
The Hurricanes entered the playoffs as underdogs, overcoming skepticism with a dominant defense and impressive victories. They defeated No. 7 Texas A&M and No. 2 Ohio State, showcasing their resilience and skill.
Facing Ole Miss in the Semifinals
Miami’s defense is set to face a formidable challenge against No. 6 Ole Miss, known for having the second-best offense in the nation in terms of yards per game. This matchup promises to be a test of strength as both teams vie for a spot in the championship game.
The upcoming encounter with Ole Miss is a culmination of Miami’s hard work and a testament to their significant improvements. As the Hurricanes aim for glory in the CFP, fans will be eagerly watching to see if this season’s journey can lead to their first national title in over two decades.