Miami's path to CFP National Championship: 10 reasons they reached the title game

No. 10 seed Miami will face No. 1 Indiana for the College Football Playoff national championship at Hard Rock Stadium after winning three straight playoff games; the article lists 10 reasons behind the Hurricanes' run.

Miami, a No. 10 seed, will play No. 1 Indiana in the College Football Playoff national championship at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. The Hurricanes are one win away from their first title since 2001 after winning three straight playoff games. Miami began 2025 with early promise, had midseason losses to Louisville and SMU, and then recovered to secure the final at-large spot in the CFP field. Coach Mario Cristobal's program changes, a mix of transfers and homegrown talent, and several standout performances are highlighted as reasons for the team's run. Key factors: - Home-field title game: Miami will play the national championship at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. - Seed and playoff path: The Hurricanes entered the CFP as the No. 10 seed and the final at-large team, then won three consecutive playoff games against higher-seeded opponents. - Pass rush and defense: Bain and Mesidor led a pass rush that ranked among the nation's best, and Miami improved under new defensive coordinator Corey Heatherman to rank highly in total, rushing and scoring defense. - Offensive line and rushing attack: Mario Cristobal's offensive-line unit allowed just 19 sacks in 15 games and helped open lanes for a productive rushing game during the postseason. - Carson Beck's late-game impact: Quarterback Carson Beck led two long scoring drives in the Fiesta Bowl and scored a go-ahead rushing touchdown with 18 seconds remaining. - Contributors and depth: Freshman receiver Toney, running back Mark Fletcher Jr., and multiple members of Miami's highly ranked 2025 transfer class provided key plays during the season and in the playoff. Summary: Miami's mix of defensive gains, a strong offensive front, and timely offensive plays helped the program reach the CFP national title game at its home stadium. The Hurricanes will meet No. 1 seed Indiana in the national championship on Monday, and the game's outcome will determine whether Miami secures its first title since 2001.