The Miami Hurricanes have made history once again, reaching the College Football National Championship game for the first time since 2003. Although having won a title five times in the past, the new era of College Football - the Playoffs, have never seen the Hurricanes. Earning the last ‘at large’ spot in the 12-team bracket, the path to playing in the National Championship game was nothing but easy. The number 10 Miami hurricanes had the toughest path to make it back home to Miami.
Beginning in College Station Texas, the Miami Hurricanes faced the 11-1 Texas A&M Aggies at their home field – which included over 100,000 dedicated Aggie fans, the largest crowd ever seen in the College Football Playoffs. Miami defeated the Aggies 10-3 in an intense, defense heavy game earning them a spot in the Cotton Bowl.
The Canes travelled to Dallas on New Years Eve to take on the reigning National Champions, The Ohio State Buckeyes. Originally predicted to lose by 9.5, the Canes won by 10. One of the biggest upsets in College Football Playoff history, the Canes took home the Cotton Bowl Trophy winning 24-14.
The Fiesta Bowl brought a match up that hasn't met since 1951 – the Canes and the Ole Miss Rebels. The score was close the whole game leaving Canes fans to brace themselves as the Rebels pulled ahead in the fourth quarter. Carson Beck ran into the end zone for a touchdown with 18 seconds left, earning the Canes a 31-27 win.
On Friday, January 16, Hurricanes fans gathered on Lakeside patio for a Pep Rally hosted by Miami Hurricanes Athletics and Category 5. With food, giveaways, and activations, Canes fans were able to spend the afternoon getting pumped up for National Championship Weekend. Mario Cristobal, Head Coach of the Miami Hurricanes Football team, spoke to the Canes Community, thanking them for their support all season long and building the energy for the big game ahead.
"Bring that passion! Bring that noise! Lets show the entire country what it means to be a Miami Hurricane!" said Cristobal.
On Monday, January 19, the Miami Hurricanes are coming home to Hard Rock Stadium to play the number one ranked, undefeated, Indiana Hoosiers, for the title. The Division of Student Affairs will be hosting a Watch Party at the Watsco Center for students, faculty, staff, and alumni to come together and watch the game on the jumbotron. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. with kickoff at 7:30 p.m. All those eligible to attend should have received an email with a registration link.
No matter where you are, the Canes feel your support. Miami Hurricanes Athletics encourages Canes everywhere to wear orange on gameday. Remember, Its all about the U!
