The University of Miami Hurricanes have secured a spot in the National Championship game with a heart-pounding 31-27 win over the Ole Miss Rebels in an instant classic at the Fiesta Bowl. In a back-and-forth affair, Miami held on with a resilient Rebels team in the end for a thrilling victory.

Miami quarterback Carson Beck put the game away with a 3-yard scramble for a touchdown with just 18 seconds left on the clock. He finished the game completing 23 of 37 for 268 yards, two touchdowns, and an interception, while also rushing for one touchdown. Beck hit his most pivotal play to set Miami on their victory march, a 52-yard strike to wide receiver Keelan Marion in the third quarter that swung the momentum back in the Hurricanes’ favor.

Running back Mark Fletcher Jr. led the way on the ground for Miami with 22 carries for 133 yards while never once going backwards and converting first downs in chunks. CharMar Brown also contributed 54 yards and a touchdown on 14 carries and was key to the ground attack.

Wide receiver Keelan Marion was electrifying, racking up seven receptions for 114 yards and one touchdown, while Malachi Toney was a go-to target for Beck, catching five passes for 81 yards and a score and also adding 11 yards on the ground. Both receivers made big-time plays on third downs when Miami needed them most.

Miami’s defense posted one sack, six pass deflections, and forced an interception.

Mohamed Toure was in the backfield all day while the secondary came through for big stops in the end. The Rebels’ offense kept the game competitive with big plays at every turn.

Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss didn’t back down, completing 23 of 37 passes for 277 yards and a touchdown, while running back Kewan Lacy was the biggest star of the day, rushing for 103 yards and a touchdown on only 11 carries, including one 73-yard touchdown scamper.

The Rebels’ defense was tough as nails, coming up with four sacks and hurrying Beck whenever he dropped back to pass.

Ole Miss kicker Lucas Carneiro put the Rebels on the board and kept them in the game with clutch field goals all day, nailing field goals from 23, 37, 43 and an absolute 58-yard bomb. The Rebels proved to be a true championship team in all phases of the game.

On to the National Championship!