Ohio State Buckeyes vs Miami Hurricanes Picks and Predictions December 31st 2025

Ohio State Buckeyes vs Miami Hurricanes Betting Preview

Ohio State Buckeyes enter the Cotton Bowl as defending national champions, while Miami Hurricanes make their first CFP appearance since 2002. This quarterfinal matchup revives memories of their historic BCS clash, now with new stars and playoff stakes.

Line Movement and Odds

Ohio State opened as a -9.5 favorite, with market support steady. Public lean favors the Buckeyes’ offensive depth, but Miami’s ATS record as an underdog has drawn sharp interest.

• Ohio State Spread: -9.5 (-111)
• Miami Spread: +9.5 (-109)
• Ohio State MoneyLine: -366
• Miami MoneyLine: +289
• Total: 42.5 (-110)

For broader market context, check the latest college football odds page.

Matchup Breakdown

Ohio State Outlook

QB Carnell Tate headlines the Buckeyes’ passing game with 838 receiving yards and nine touchdowns, while WR Jeremiah Smith adds All-American production. Ohio State ranks top-15 nationally in scoring and passing, supported by a defense ranked top-10 in sacks and interceptions. Their ability to pressure quarterbacks and sustain drives is a key edge.

Miami Outlook

QB Carson Beck leads the Hurricanes with over 3,000 passing yards and 25 touchdowns, supported by WR Malachi Toney’s 970 receiving yards and RB Mark Fletcher Jr.’s 685 rushing yards. Defensively, Miami ranks top-20 in sacks and interceptions, led by DE Rueben Bain Jr. Their disruptive front seven is critical to covering the spread.

Key Matchup / Path to Victory

The game hinges on Ohio State’s offensive line against Miami’s pass rush. If the Buckeyes protect their quarterback, they control tempo. Miami must lean on defensive disruption and efficient passing to stay inside the number.

Injuries / Availability

Ohio State lists OL Tegra Tshabola out, while WR Quincy Porter and S Malik Hartford are questionable.

Miami has LB Malik Bryant and DB Damari Brown questionable, while WR Daylyn Upshaw is out.

Environment

AT&T Stadium provides a neutral-site setting, though Ohio State’s playoff pedigree adds confidence. Miami’s return to the CFP fuels motivation, while both defenses ensure a physical contest. Weather conditions indoors keep execution clean.

Best Bets and Prediction

Projected Final Score: Ohio State 24, Miami 17

• Miami +9.5 → Best Bet. Strong ATS record as underdog and defensive disruption give them cover potential.
• Under 42.5 → Playable. Both defenses rank top-20 nationally, pointing to a lower-scoring contest.

Expect a competitive game with Ohio State’s offensive depth providing the difference, but Miami’s resilience keeping it close. The projected score supports the underdog cover and a lean to the under.

Handicappers and Service Plays

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