Bobby Carpenter’s take on Miami’s win over Texas A&M? Let’s just say the numbers don’t quite support the narrative he’s pushing.
The former Ohio State linebacker stirred up some conversation when he suggested the Aggies might’ve been the better team in their College Football Playoff first-round matchup against Miami. His reasoning?
Miami had some miscues on special teams, left points on the board, and got a big punt return without cashing in. But when you actually break down what happened on the field - not just the what-ifs - it’s pretty clear which team earned that victory.
Let’s start with the basics. Miami didn’t have a clean day on special teams - that’s fair.
Windy conditions played a role, and missed field goals definitely kept the scoreboard tighter than it should’ve been. But even with those struggles, Miami still managed to control the game in key areas.
They won the turnover battle, finishing plus-two, including a game-sealing interception on Texas A&M’s final possession. That’s not just a stat - that’s a game-deciding moment.
And then there’s the ground game. In a matchup where passing was a challenge, Miami leaned on its run game and outgained A&M on the ground at a 2-to-1 clip.
That’s not a small edge - that’s domination in the trenches. Meanwhile, the Hurricanes’ defense made life tough for A&M quarterback Marcel Reed, who was forced to throw into tight windows all game long.
Miami’s game plan was clear: shut down the run, make Reed beat them through the air, and capitalize on mistakes. Mission accomplished.
One of the biggest plays of the game came late, when Miami defensive back Bryce Fitzgerald picked off Reed in the end zone. That turnover wasn’t just a highlight - it was the final nail in the coffin.
And let’s not forget, Miami scored the only touchdown of the game. In a low-scoring, grind-it-out playoff setting, that matters - a lot.
So when Carpenter says A&M “may have been the better team,” it’s hard to see how that adds up. If Miami had even an average day on special teams, this game likely isn’t close.
The Hurricanes controlled the line of scrimmage, made the big plays when it counted, and forced turnovers in critical moments. That’s what winning teams do, especially in the postseason.
Now, it’s no surprise that some former Buckeyes might be slow to give Miami credit, especially with the Hurricanes heading to the Cotton Bowl to face Ohio State. But the tape doesn’t lie.
Miami earned their spot. They didn’t back into it, and they didn’t get lucky.
They beat Texas A&M in a physical, playoff-style battle - and they did it by being the better team when it mattered most.
Next stop: Cotton Bowl. And if Miami plays with the same defensive intensity and ground-game control, they’re going to be a tough out for anyone - even the Buckeyes.