UM vs OSU Position by Position Stats

Quarterback

Ohio State: Julian Sayin has been highly efficient, completing ~78% of passes for over 3,300 yards, 31 TDs, and low interceptions. Strong in big games against ranked opponents.

Miami: Carson Beck (transfer) has thrown for ~3,175 yards at 8.5 YPA, 26 TDs, and 10 INTs, with a 74.3% completion rate. Capable of big plays but has shown inconsistency and focus issues in pressure situations.

Edge: Ohio State – More consistent and efficient production.

Running Back

Ohio State: Bo Jackson leads with ~950 rushing yards; committee approach with solid depth (e.g., James Peoples, CJ Donaldson).

Miami: Mark Fletcher Jr. is the primary back (~685 yards), highlighted by explosive performances like 172 yards on 17 carries vs. Texas A&M in the first-round playoff win.

Edge: Slight to Miami – Fletcher provides more big-play threat, though Ohio State has better depth.

Wide Receivers/Tight Ends

Ohio State: Elite group led by Jeremiah Smith (~942 yards) and Carnell Tate (~793 yards), considered among the best duos nationally with NFL-level talent.

Miami: Malachi Toney stands out (~970-992 yards, 8+ TDs, plus versatility in returns and gadget plays); solid supporting cast (e.g., Keelan Marion).

Edge: Ohio State – Deeper and higher ceiling with future top draft picks.

Offensive Line

Ohio State: Strong protection overall, allowing limited sacks; struggled at times (e.g., 5 sacks allowed in Big Ten Championship loss to Indiana).

Miami: One of the nation's best, elite pass-blocking (low sacks allowed, ~0.92 per game nationally); dominant run-blocking, paving big lanes in playoff win.

Edge: Miami – Superior in both pass protection and run support.

Defensive Line (Pass Rush/Sacks/TFL)

Ohio State: Led by Caden Curry (11 sacks), Kenyatta Jackson Jr. (6.5 sacks); consistent pressure as part of the No. 1 overall defense.

Miami: Highly disruptive with ~41+ team sacks (top-5 nationally, including 7 vs. Texas A&M); Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor combine for 15+ sacks.

Edge: Miami – More prolific team sacks and pressure rate.

Linebackers/Secondary

Ohio State: Part of the top-ranked defense; excellent coverage and run support, limiting opponents to low points/yards.

Miami: Strong secondary and overall unit (No. 10 defense nationally); disruptive in coverage and forcing turnovers.

Edge: Ohio State – Contributes to the nation's best total defense.

Overall Team Stats (2025 Season Entering Playoff Quarterfinal)

Offense Ranking: Ohio State No. 12 | Miami No. 16

Defense Ranking: Ohio State No. 1 | Miami No. 10

In summary, Miami's offense was solid but not elite relative to schedule strength (+5.9 PPG / +36.6 YPG above norms), while their defense was a standout unit (-15.2 PPG / -110 YPG below norms), often performing much better than what opponents achieved against typical foes. This imbalance highlights why Miami advanced in the playoffs despite two close losses.

In Summary, Ohio State's offense was strong but not overwhelmingly so relative to their schedule (+11.6 PPG / +83.3 YPG above norms), while their defense was among the nation's best (-18.6 PPG / -151.3 YPG below norms), often turning games into one-sided affairs. This defensive prowess explains their 12-1 record and high seeding.