#10 Miami vs. #2 Ohio State Predictions, Picks & Odds: CFB Playoffs, 12/31

The College Football Playoff quarterfinals continue with a significant matchup in the Cotton Bowl, featuring #10 Miami facing off against #2 Ohio State in Arlington. Although the teams' reputations and the talent on display suggest an exciting game, the reality of this encounter indicates otherwise. 

Both squads come into this game following defensive performances that have shaped their results, and neither offense has consistently demonstrated the ability to assert dominance against top-tier opponents. Which brings us to our #10 Miami vs. #2 Ohio St. picks!

#10 Miami vs. #2 Ohio St. Predictions for the CFB Playoffs, Wednesday, 12/31

With a spot in the national semifinals at stake, anticipate a careful, physical contest where field position, clock management, and minimizing errors will be far more critical than speed or explosiveness. This situation highlights one betting opportunity that stands out from the rest.

This total might seem surprisingly low by contemporary college football standards, but when you examine how these teams secure victories, the Under 40.5 line becomes quite logical when looking to make #10 Miami vs. #2 Ohio St. predictions.

#10 Miami vs. #2 Ohio St. Best Bet: Under 40.5 (+102 at Rebet)

Miami has established its playoff journey with a focus on defense. The Hurricanes permitted only 13.0 points per game throughout the regular season, placing them among the top teams in the nation, and they reinforced this identity in their CFP debut by defeating Texas A&M 10–3 away from home. 

That matchup showcased seven sacks by Miami, consistent pressure, and an offense that operated with caution rather than aggression. There was no rush to open up the game because it simply wasn’t necessary. This strategy will remain unchanged against Ohio State.

Under Shannon Dawson, Miami’s offense is both conservative and methodical. Quarterback Carson Beck effectively distributes the ball, yet the Hurricanes seldom attempt deep throws. More than half of their passes occur within five yards of the line of scrimmage, which aligns perfectly with Ohio State’s defensive capabilities. 

The Buckeyes excel at rallying to the ball, tackling effectively in open space, and minimizing yards gained after the catch. While short completions are possible, sustaining drives proves challenging.

This is a significant factor in why Miami struggles to create explosive plays, which poses a challenge against an Ohio State defense that ranks first in the nation for fewest explosive plays allowed.

If the Hurricanes find themselves in third-and-long situations or behind the chains, they are unlikely to suddenly change their approach and attack downfield — particularly against a secondary that excels at creating turnovers.

Beck’s decision-making is also a critical factor. He has a track record of throwing interceptions when pressured to push the ball deep, and against an Ohio State defense that effectively disguises coverage and quickly closes passing lanes, Miami will likely prefer to punt and focus on field position rather than force plays.

On the flip side, Ohio State's offense is not a powerhouse when up against elite defenses. The Buckeyes managed to score only 10 points in their loss to Indiana in the Big Ten Championship Game. Although quarterback Julian Sayin has shown efficiency overall, he remains a young quarterback experiencing his first playoff journey.

Ohio State passes frequently, but they do so with intention rather than speed. The Buckeyes prefer to sustain long drives, particularly when they are ahead. This tendency should be even more evident against Miami. 

The Hurricanes apply pressure consistently, and while they may not always convert that pressure into sacks, they do compel quarterbacks to make quicker decisions and opt for shorter passes. This short-passing strategy helps keep the clock running.

The running game also leans towards the Under. Miami's defensive line is designed to dominate the line of scrimmage, and Ohio State's rushing effectiveness declines when they fail to establish movement early on. Anticipate numerous early-down runs, manageable second-and-short situations, and a scarcity of significant ground plays.

Both coaching staffs are aware of the importance of this game. Neither team is likely to take unnecessary risks in the first half. Extended drives that culminate in field goals are much more probable than rapid touchdowns, and once one team secures even a slight lead, the tempo will further decelerate.

In a scenario where a final score of 20–12 or 23–17 seems quite plausible, taking the Under 40.5 at favorable odds is the most compelling option available for #10 Miami vs. #2 Ohio St. predictions.

How To Watch #10 Miami vs. #2 Ohio St. - CFB Playoffs

• Date: Wednesday, December 31
• Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
• TV: ESPN
• Location: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TX

#10 Miami vs. #2 Ohio St. Odds, Spreads, Total & Betting Lines

As we present our #10 Miami vs. #2 Ohio St. predictions, we’re thrilled to share the latest #10 Miami vs. #2 Ohio St. odds from Rebet for this exciting matchup:

• Money Line (ML): Hurricanes +312 | Buckeyes -320
• Spread: Hurricanes +9.5 (-104) | Buckeyes -9.5 (+101)
• Over/Under (O/U): 40.5 (O: -108 | U: +102)

#10 Miami vs. #2 Ohio St. Injury Report & Latest News

Miami Injury Report

• D. Simpson (DL) – Out, Undisclosed
• M. Bryant (LB) – Out, Undisclosed
• D. Brown (CB) – Out, Undisclosed
• D. Upshaw (WR) – Out, Foot

OSU Injury Report

• M. Hartford (S) – Out, Undisclosed
• Q. Porter (WR) – Out, Undisclosed
• M. Maggs (QB) – Out, Undisclosed
• L. George (DL) – Out, Undisclosed
• A. Tounkara (DL) – Doubtful, Undisclosed
• T. Tshabola (OG) – Doubtful, Undisclosed

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