When Ohio State lines up against Miami in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals on Wednesday, one name on the Buckeyes’ scouting report is going to be underlined, circled, and probably highlighted too: Mark Fletcher Jr.
At 6-foot-2 and 225 pounds, Fletcher brings a physical, downhill running style that’s tailor-made for playoff football. He’s not just a big body, though - he’s Miami’s leading rusher this season, racking up 857 yards on the ground and punching in 10 touchdowns. And he’s coming into this matchup with serious momentum after torching Texas A&M for a career-high 172 rushing yards in the first round of the CFP.
Fletcher’s emergence as a workhorse back has been a huge boost for the Hurricanes’ offense, especially in high-leverage situations. He’s the kind of runner who can wear down a defense over four quarters, and he’s shown he can deliver when the lights are brightest. That kind of production - and poise - is exactly what Miami will need against a physical, fast Ohio State front.
But here’s the twist: Fletcher almost ended up on the other sideline in this very game.
Back in April 2022, Fletcher committed to Ohio State as part of the Buckeyes’ 2023 recruiting class. A top-100 prospect out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, he looked like a perfect fit for a program known for producing elite running backs. But just a month before Signing Day that November, he flipped his commitment, opting to stay home and play for Miami instead.
Now, that decision adds an extra layer of intrigue to this quarterfinal showdown. Fletcher won’t just be trying to carry Miami into the next round - he’ll be doing it against the team he once pledged to join. It’s a full-circle moment, and you can bet both sides are well aware of the backstory.
For Ohio State, containing Fletcher will be a top priority. He’s a tone-setter for Miami’s offense, and if he gets rolling early, it could open up everything else for the Hurricanes.
Expect the Buckeyes to stack the box, mix up their fronts, and try to force Miami into obvious passing situations. But that’s easier said than done - Fletcher has shown he can grind out tough yards even when defenses key on him.
Wednesday’s matchup is already loaded with playoff stakes, but with Fletcher in the spotlight - and facing the team he once nearly joined - it brings a little extra edge. And in the College Football Playoff, those storylines tend to matter.