Miami Isn’t Done Yet: Why the Hurricanes Belong in the Playoff Debate
After a pair of midseason stumbles in losses to unranked Louisville and SMU, Miami's perfect start came to an end, and its playoff hopes dimmed. Many wrote the Hurricanes off and thought they were out of the playoff conversation entirely. With November winding down, Miami is still in the College Football Playoff hunt with two key games remaining. Lose either, and their postseason hopes vanish, but win both, and Miami deserves a spot to compete in late December.
Head-to-Head Win That Matters
Miami's strongest credential is a 27-24 win over Notre Dame, a team currently ranked ninth in the AP Poll and also battling for a playoff spot. If Miami and Notre Dame finish close in the final rankings, a head-to-head win for Miami should be the decisive factor. Miami is 8-2 and currently 12th in the AP Poll, three spots behind Notre Dame, who also has an 8-2 record. Against a common opponent, NC State, Miami performed better than Notre Dame, yet the Irish still rank higher. Miami's resume deserves careful consideration, and a win over a top-10 team is no small achievement; it should be a huge factor when considering the Hurricanes for a playoff bid.
Why Miami Belongs in the Debate
Miami's win over Notre Dame is not the only factor that may strengthen its playoff argument. The Hurricanes have one of the nation's top defenses, allowing just 14.2 points and 270.9 total yards per game, a unit that can dominate opponents and make game-changing plays in crucial moments. If Miami wins its remaining matchups against Virginia Tech and Pittsburgh, it would finish 10-2, a record that historically puts teams in strong playoff contention. ESPN’s Football Power Index also ranks Miami within the top 12, showing it can compete among the nation's best.
Miami's Case for the Playoff
Miami has proven it belongs in the College Football Playoff conversation. With a signature win over top 10 Notre Dame, an elite defense, and the potential to finish 10-2, the Hurricanes have the resume that deserves respect. Win out, and the selection committee's decision should be clear. Currently ranked 13th in the updated College Football Playoff Rankings, Miami is in position to secure the 11th seed and earn a shot at the National Championship.
