Miami Upsets Ohio State 24-14 in Cotton Bowl CFP Quarterfinal

Keionte Scott's 72-yard pick-six sparks Hurricanes' victory over Buckeyes

Apr. 13, 2026 at 4:55am

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An extreme close-up of a football player in mid-stride, surrounded by a vibrant, expressionist painting of neon colors and rapid brushstrokes, capturing the raw energy and excitement of a game-changing defensive play.Miami's defensive standout Keionte Scott ignites the Hurricanes' upset victory over Ohio State with a game-changing 72-yard pick-six.Muncie Today

In a thrilling College Football Playoff quarterfinal matchup, the Miami Hurricanes stunned the Ohio State Buckeyes 24-14 in the Cotton Bowl on December 31, 2025. Defensive standout Keionte Scott's 72-yard interception return for a touchdown proved to be the game-changing play, as Miami's defense stifled the Buckeyes' high-powered offense throughout the contest.

Why it matters

This upset victory is a significant moment for the Miami program, which is seeking its first national title since 2001. Head coach Mario Cristobal, a former Hurricanes player, has the team on the brink of championship glory. Meanwhile, Ohio State's loss is a bitter disappointment, as they were favored to win and were seeking back-to-back national titles.

The details

Miami quarterback Carson Beck led the offense with a record-setting 13 consecutive completions, including a touchdown pass to Mark Fletcher Jr. The Hurricanes' defense also stepped up, sacking Ohio State's Heisman Trophy finalist Julian Sayin five times and forcing two fumbles. Keionte Scott's game-changing 72-yard pick-six in the third quarter proved to be the decisive play, sending the Miami sideline and fans into a frenzy.

  • The game was played on December 31, 2025, in the Cotton Bowl.
  • Keionte Scott's 72-yard interception return for a touchdown occurred in the third quarter.

The players

Keionte Scott

A defensive standout for the Miami Hurricanes, Scott scored on a 72-yard interception return, a pivotal play in the upset victory.

Carson Beck

The Miami Hurricanes' quarterback, Beck led the offense with a record-setting 13 consecutive completions, including a touchdown pass.

Julian Sayin

The Heisman Trophy finalist quarterback for the Ohio State Buckeyes, Sayin was sacked five times and had two fumbles forced by the Miami defense.

Mario Cristobal

The head coach of the Miami Hurricanes, Cristobal is a former Hurricanes player who is leading the team back to the brink of championship glory.

Mark Fletcher Jr.

The Miami Hurricanes' wide receiver, Fletcher caught a touchdown pass from Carson Beck.

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What they’re saying

“This win is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team. We knew we had to bring our A-game to beat a powerhouse like Ohio State, and I'm so proud of the way our guys stepped up.”

— Mario Cristobal, Head Coach, Miami Hurricanes

“That pick-six by Keionte was the play of the game. It gave us the momentum we needed to hold on and get the win. I'm so proud of the way our defense stepped up and made big plays when it mattered most.”

— Carson Beck, Quarterback, Miami Hurricanes

What’s next

Miami will face the winner of the SEC's Sugar Bowl between Georgia and Ole Miss in the College Football Playoff semifinals at the Fiesta Bowl. Ohio State's season has come to an end, with their next game scheduled for the 2026 opener against Ball State.

The takeaway

This upset victory by the Miami Hurricanes over the heavily favored Ohio State Buckeyes is a significant moment for the program, as they seek to reclaim their status as a national powerhouse. The emotional win for head coach Mario Cristobal, a former Hurricanes player, highlights the team's determination and resilience in the face of a formidable opponent.