When the College Football Playoff field was announced, Miami’s inclusion came with more debate than celebration. The Hurricanes and Notre Dame were the final two teams being discussed for the last at-large spot, and when the committee chose Miami, questions immediately followed. Many wondered if the ACC truly deserved a spot in the playoff at all.
Miami didn’t just hear the noise,it responded to it.
The controversy was fueled in part by chaos within the ACC itself. Duke’s late-season surge created a rare five-way tie at the top of the conference standings, throwing the league into confusion. Duke ultimately emerged from the mess to win the ACC Championship, but the crowded race made it difficult for any ACC team to clearly separate itself nationally. As a result, Miami entered Selection Sunday without the typical “conference champion” label that often helps playoff resumes.
Instead, the Hurricanes were judged against Notre Dame, a brand-name program with national appeal. When Miami was selected over the Fighting Irish, critics questioned the decision, pointing to Miami’s inconsistent offensive production and lack of dominance throughout the season.
Offensively, Miami was rarely talked about as one of the nation’s elite units. The Hurricanes didn’t put up video-game numbers like some SEC or Big Ten teams, and they often won with balance, defense, and ball control rather than explosive scoring. That approach led many to believe Miami wouldn’t be able to keep up once the playoff began.
Once the games kicked off, those doubts disappeared quickly.
Miami responded by winning three straight playoff games, defeating Texas A&M in the opening round, knocking off defending national champion Ohio State in the Cotton Bowl, and then outlasting Ole Miss in the Fiesta Bowl. In each game, Miami played disciplined football, controlled time of possession, and made key plays when it mattered most.
Quarterback Carson Beck became the symbol of Miami’s postseason run, sealing the Fiesta Bowl with a game-winning touchdown run in the final seconds. That moment didn’t just send Miami to the national championship, it validated the committee’s decision.
Now, as the lone ACC team standing, Miami has done more than survive the playoff. The Hurricanes have proven that the ACC belongs on college football’s biggest stage, and that doubt can be the strongest fuel of all.
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