Preview: Miami (FL) Faces Ohio State in New Year’s Eve Showdown

ARLINGTON, Texas (Interstat) — A marquee New Year’s Eve clash at AT&T Stadium will feature two of college football’s most storied programs when the Miami (FL) Hurricanes take on the Ohio State Buckeyes on Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025.

The Hurricanes (11-2) enter riding a four-game winning streak, capped by a gritty 10-3 road victory over Texas A&M on Dec. 20. Their defense has been stifling, allowing just 10 total points in the last two games. However, the offense, led by quarterback Carson Beck, will need more production after managing only 103 passing yards in that win. Beck’s efficiency will be critical, but the ground game, featuring Mark Fletcher Jr. (172 yards vs. Texas A&M), provides balance.

Ohio State (12-1), the Big Ten champion, looks to rebound from a stunning 13-10 home loss to Indiana in its regular-season finale on Dec. 6. Before that upset, the Buckeyes’ defense was dominant, posting three shutouts and allowing more than 10 points only twice. Quarterback Julian Sayin (258 yards, 1 TD vs. Indiana) and running back Bo Jackson lead an offense that must rediscover its rhythm against a formidable Miami front.

The neutral-site game, a de facto home contest for Ohio State given its traveling fan base, pits Miami’s momentum against an Ohio State team with a point to prove. The Hurricanes’ path included key wins over Florida and Florida State, while Ohio State’s resume features a decisive victory at Michigan and a season-opening triumph over Texas.

According to Interstat’s game simulator, Ohio State is projected to win 29-18. Despite this, oddsmakers have installed Miami as a pregame favorite with a spread of +9.5, indicating the Hurricanes are expected to lose by fewer than 10 points. The over/under is set at 40.5 points, suggesting a low-scoring, defensive battle.

The matchup will hinge on whether Miami’s surging defense can contain Sayin and force mistakes, and if Beck can elevate the Hurricane passing attack against Ohio State’s talented secondary. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. EST.