GLENDALE, Ariz. — The Miami Hurricanes secured a dramatic 31-27 victory over the Ole Miss Rebels on Thursday night, punching their ticket to the College Football Playoff National Championship Game, which will be held at their home venue, Hard Rock Stadium. The tightly contested semifinal matchup at State Farm Stadium showcased a back-and-forth battle marked by explosive plays and strategic resilience.
Miami’s quarterback Carson Beck emerged as the hero, engineering a game-winning touchdown drive that sealed the Hurricanes’ spot in the championship. Beck’s leadership was evident throughout the contest, particularly on a pivotal 15-play drive culminating in a short rushing touchdown by CharMar Brown in the second quarter. Beck also connected on a 52-yard touchdown pass to Keelan Marion just before halftime, giving Miami a 17-13 lead.
Ole Miss responded fiercely, with running back Kewan Lacy electrifying the crowd with a 73-yard touchdown run early in the second quarter, which briefly put the Rebels ahead. Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss kept his team in contention, orchestrating drives that included a field goal to take a 19-17 lead in the fourth quarter. However, Miami’s Malachi Toney answered swiftly with a 36-yard screen pass touchdown, reclaiming the lead for the Hurricanes.
The final moments were a testament to Miami’s poise under pressure. After Ole Miss attempted a last-ditch Hail Mary, Chambliss was unable to connect, sealing Miami’s victory. The Hurricanes will now await the winner of the other CFP semifinal between the Indiana Hoosiers and Oregon Ducks, set to face them on January 19.
This victory marks a significant milestone for Miami, who will play for the national title on their home turf, an advantage that adds excitement and anticipation for fans and players alike. The College Football Playoff’s official site provides detailed schedules and ticket information for the upcoming championship game.
For fans interested in the broader context of college football’s postseason, the NCAA’s official football page offers comprehensive coverage and historical data. Additionally, the College Football Playoff organization maintains current rankings and playoff brackets.
Miami’s triumph also highlights the importance of strategic play-calling and athleticism in high-stakes games. The Hurricanes’ ability to respond quickly to Ole Miss’s scoring drives and maintain composure in the fourth quarter was crucial. As the championship approaches, both teams will be preparing intensely, with national attention focused on the Hard Rock Stadium showdown.
The game was broadcast nationally and drew significant viewership, underscoring college football’s growing popularity. For those wishing to review game highlights or player statistics, the ESPN College Football section provides extensive multimedia coverage.
With the stage set, Miami’s Hurricanes are poised to capitalize on their home-field advantage and vie for the coveted national championship, promising an exhilarating conclusion to the 2025 college football season.
