Miami Advances to National Championship with Last-Second Win Over Ole Miss in Fiesta Bowl

Miami quarterback Carson Beck orchestrated a 75-yard drive culminating in a 3-yard touchdown run with 18 seconds left, leading the Hurricanes to a 31-27 victory over Ole Miss in the Fiesta Bowl. This win propels Miami to its first national championship game since 2001.

Beck completed 23 of 37 passes for 268 yards, throwing two touchdowns and one interception. His performance was pivotal in a game that saw four lead changes in the fourth quarter. Freshman receiver Malachi Toney contributed significantly, turning a screen pass into a 36-yard touchdown that gave Miami a 24-19 lead earlier in the final quarter.

Ole Miss responded with quarterback Trinidad Chambliss connecting with tight end Dae'Quan Wright for a 24-yard touchdown, reclaiming the lead at 27-24 with just over three minutes remaining. However, Beck's decisive drive sealed the game for Miami.

The Hurricanes' defense held Ole Miss to minus-1 yard in the first quarter but allowed a 73-yard touchdown run by Kewan Lacy on the first play of the second quarter. Despite this, Miami maintained control, with Keelan Marion catching a 52-yard touchdown pass from Beck to regain the lead before halftime.

Miami will face the winner of the Peach Bowl between No. 1 Indiana and No. 5 Oregon in the national championship game on January 19 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.