SPORTS

Miami Beats Ole Miss, Reaches CFP Title Game

PUBLISHED Jan 8, 2026, 9:02 AM ET

Read, Watch or Listen

Miami Beats Ole Miss, Reaches CFP Title Game

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 12

Center 100%

Sources: 12

GLENDALE, Ariz. On Thursday, Miami defeated Ole Miss 31-27 in the Fiesta Bowl College Football Playoff semifinal at State Farm Stadium, advancing to the national championship. Carson Beck led a 75-yard, 15-play final drive and scored a 3-yard touchdown with 18 seconds left. Beck passed for 268 yards with two touchdowns. Ole Miss reached the Miami 35 on the final play but officials declined to flag pass interference. Miami will host the title game on January 19 at Hard Rock Stadium. Based on 7 articles reviewed and supporting research.

By Lauren Mitchell | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Nov. 30, 2025: Lane Kiffin departs Ole Miss to accept LSU position.
Early December 2025: Ole Miss wins playoff games versus James Madison and Georgia to reach semifinal.
Jan. 8, 2026: Fiesta Bowl semifinal at State Farm Stadium; Miami defeats Ole Miss 31-27.
Jan. 8, 2026: Final Ole Miss play prompts pass interference claims; no penalty called.
Jan. 19, 2026: Miami set to host CFP national championship game at Hard Rock Stadium.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 12
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 12

Who Benefited

The Miami program, its players and coaches, local Miami-area businesses, and Miami's recruiting efforts benefited directly from the win and advancement to the College Football Playoff national championship game.

Who Impacted

Ole Miss players, coaching staff, and their supporters suffered the loss and missed opportunity to play for the national title, a result complicated by debate over a potential unflagged pass interference on the final play.

Media Bias