The highly anticipated Cotton Bowl matchup is set for December 31, 2026, where the No. 2 seed Ohio State Buckeyes will face off against the No. 10 seed Miami Hurricanes in the College Football Playoffs quarterfinals. As the countdown to the New Year begins, Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day has made a significant coaching change that will impact the team’s strategy during this crucial game.
Day has revealed that Brian Hartline will be on the field while Keenan Bailey will assume a position in the coaching box for play calls. This shift suggests a potential promotion for Bailey to offensive coordinator at the end of the season, although Day emphasized that the decision-making process remains collaborative.
“It looks like Brian and I will be down on the field. We will have Keenan go upstairs, and then Brian can really help — he’ll still be involved with everything we do, everybody is involved with the play calling, and ultimately I’ll have the last say,” Day stated, as reported by Chase Brown of Eleven Warriors. He further explained that Hartline’s presence on the field will allow him to assist the receivers effectively, while Bailey’s role will focus on organizational support from above.
The stakes are high as the Buckeyes prepare for their showdown with the Hurricanes. Former Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban has weighed in on the matchup, offering a warning to Miami. On December 30, during an appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show,” Saban noted the need for Miami to enhance their offensive strategy to compete effectively against Ohio State.
“I think Miami is going to have to do more on offense to beat Ohio State,” Saban remarked. He pointed out that while Miami played a solid defense in their previous game against Texas A&M, their reliance on the run may not suffice against the Buckeyes.
“But I think against Ohio State, it’s going to be a little different story in terms of how they’re going to have to score more points, make some explosive plays, sort of run the ball, but then have play action passes and attack down the field some to try to create some explosive plays. They’ve got the quarterback to do it,” he added.
The excitement surrounding this Cotton Bowl clash is palpable, with both teams ready to showcase their talents. As the Ohio State Buckeyes and Miami Hurricanes prepare for what promises to be a thrilling contest, fans can expect an electrifying atmosphere that rivals the festive New Year celebrations. With coaching changes and strategic shifts in play, the game is shaping up to be a highlight in the College Football Playoffs.
