Carson Beck demonstrated remarkable poise as he scrambled for a three-yard touchdown with just 18 seconds remaining, propelling the Miami Hurricanes to a 31-27 victory over the Ole Miss Rebels in the College Football Playoff semi-final at the Fiesta Bowl on January 4, 2024. This win secures Miami’s spot in the national championship game, marking their first opportunity to claim the title since 2001.
The matchup featured two teams with identical records of 13-2, but it was Miami’s defense that initially appeared formidable. The Hurricanes, ranked 10th, faced a relentless challenge from the sixth-ranked Rebels, who executed a thrilling comeback in the fourth quarter. Ole Miss surged ahead 27-24 after Trinidad Chambliss connected with Dae’Quan Wright for a 24-yard touchdown pass with 3:13 left on the clock.
Beck, a former national champion as a backup at Georgia, remained composed under pressure. He orchestrated a crucial drive, ultimately leading Miami to the winning score. His leadership has been instrumental, as he boasts a record of 37-5 as a starter, including two seasons at Georgia.
The Rebels, despite the absence of their head coach Lane Kiffin—who departed for LSU shortly before the playoffs—remained resilient. Kiffin’s departure seemed to galvanize the team, guiding them through a historic season that included significant playoff victories against Tulane and Georgia.
As the game progressed, Ole Miss displayed determination, with Lucas Carneiro kicking his fourth field goal from 21 yards to give the Rebels a 19-17 lead. Miami responded with a dazzling 36-yard touchdown run from Malachi Toney, who had previously shone in the Hurricanes’ opening playoff match against Texas A&M.
The Rebels regained momentum with Chambliss’s touchdown pass to Wright, but Miami’s defensive prowess ultimately prevailed. The Hurricanes’ defense, which has improved remarkably under coordinator Corey Hetherman, initially stifled Ole Miss, holding them to minus-1 yard early in the game. However, a pivotal moment came when Kewan Lacy, the nation’s third-leading rusher, burst through for a 73-yard touchdown run, igniting the Rebels’ hopes.
Miami’s offensive strategy relied on methodical plays, culminating in CharMar Brown’s four-yard touchdown run and a field goal that kept them in contention. Just before halftime, Beck exploited a defensive lapse, connecting with Keelan Marion on a 52-yard touchdown pass that shifted the momentum back in favor of the Hurricanes.
As Miami prepares for the national championship on January 19, 2024, at Hard Rock Stadium, they carry the weight of history and the hope of a new generation of fans eager for a title. Miami’s journey has rekindled memories of their storied 2001 national championship team, showcasing a blend of tenacity and skill that has captivated supporters throughout the season.
