Playoff Update Jan 8, 2026

Gameday: Miami and Ole Miss Clash in Historic Fiesta Bowl Semifinal

Iron Bowl History Staff Glendale, AZ

The road to the National Championship runs through Glendale. Tonight, the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl hosts the first College Football Playoff Semifinal, featuring a matchup of two explosive offenses that few predicted would be the last ones standing from their respective conferences.

Game Information

  • Matchup: #10 Miami Hurricanes vs. #6 Ole Miss Rebels
  • Kickoff: 7:30 PM ET / 5:30 PM MST
  • Venue: State Farm Stadium, Glendale, AZ
  • TV: ESPN
  • Stakes: Winner advances to the CFP National Championship Game

The Matchup

The Ole Miss Rebels (11-2) arrive fresh off a thrilling 39-34 victory over Georgia in the Sugar Bowl. Head Coach Lane Kiffin has finally guided his program to the sport's biggest stage, leveraging a high-flying offense led by Jaxson Dart.

The Miami Hurricanes (11-2) are the tournament's Cinderella story. After upsetting #2 Ohio State 24-14 in the Cotton Bowl, "The U" is back in the national spotlight. Quarterback Cam Ward has been electric, using his legs and arm to dismantle defenses.

On Deck: Peach Bowl

The winner of tonight's contest will await the victor of tomorrow's Peach Bowl (Jan 9), which pits #1 Indiana against #5 Oregon in Atlanta. With heavyweights like Alabama, Georgia, Ohio State, and Texas all eliminated, a first-time National Champion in the modern era is guaranteed.

Kickoff is just hours away.