Miami outlasts Texas A&M in dramatic CFP debut, advances to Cotton Bowl

Miami outlasted Texas A&M 27-24 in a College Football Playoff first-round game at Kyle Field on Saturday, with Miami wide receiver Malachi Toney delivering the decisive play by catching an 11-yard touchdown with under two minutes remaining. The Hurricanes advanced to the Cotton Bowl to face defending champion Ohio State on Dec. 31, keeping alive their bid for a sixth national title and their first since 2001.

Miami's ground game provided balance, as Mark Fletcher Jr. rushed for a career-high 172 yards to spark the offense. The Hurricanes faced gusty winds that complicated kicking duties, and Miami placekicker Carter Davis missed three field goals, including a 21-yard attempt early in the third quarter that finally put the Canes on the board after the first scoreless half in CFP history. The weather and the late scoring drive added a layer of drama to a CFP debut that produced more twists than expected.

Texas A&M had a chance to force overtime in the closing minutes, marching into the red zone before a turnover sealed the outcome. Marcel Reed threw an interception in the end zone in the final minute, preserving Miami's lead and completing a comeback win for the Hurricanes. The Aggies had climbed into scoring position and had several chances, but the late turnover capped a day of tense exchanges between two playoff newcomers.

The victory keeps Miami's championship aspirations alive and extends Texas A&M's national-title drought. The Hurricanes are seeking a sixth national championship and their first title in more than two decades, while the Aggies have not claimed a national title since 1939, a drought that will extend at least another year.

Miami earned the final at-large playoff spot over Notre Dame after beating the Fighting Irish in the season opener, a result that helped set the stage for the Hurricanes' CFP appearance this season. The win in College Station underscored Miami's resilience and ability to perform under pressure on a big stage.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.