As the College Football Playoff kicks off this weekend, all eyes turn to Kyle Field, where the Miami Hurricanes and Texas A&M Aggies are set to clash in a first-round matchup that’s as intriguing as it is consequential. Friday’s availability report gave us a better sense of what both teams will be working with - and what they’ll be missing - when the ball is kicked off at noon ET on Saturday.
Miami’s defense takes a hit, but don’t count them out
For Miami, the headline is clear: they’ll be short-handed on the defensive side of the ball. Linebacker Malik Bryant, wide receiver Daylyn Upshaw, and defensive back Damari Brown have all been ruled out. That’s a trio of contributors who’ve played meaningful snaps throughout the season, and their absence will test Miami’s depth in a high-stakes environment.
Still, this Hurricanes defense has been one of the most disciplined and efficient units in the country. They’re allowing just 283.3 total yards per game - good for 11th nationally - and they’ve done it with a mix of speed, physicality, and smart positioning. Even without a few key pieces, this group has shown it can hold its own against just about anyone.
There’s a bit of good news, too: defensive back Keionte Scott is listed as probable. If he suits up, he’ll add a veteran presence in the secondary that could be crucial against an Aggies offense that likes to test defenses vertically.
Aggies monitoring Moss - and hoping for a spark
On the Texas A&M side, the biggest question mark revolves around running back Le’Veon Moss. He’s officially listed as questionable after missing the final six games of the regular season with an ankle injury.
Before he went down, Moss was the Aggies’ leading rusher, racking up 389 yards and six touchdowns. His combination of burst and balance made him a tough assignment for opposing defenses, and his potential return could give A&M a much-needed jolt.
In Moss’s absence, Rueben Owens II stepped up in a big way. The freshman posted 618 rushing yards and five touchdowns, showing off his own playmaking ability and earning valuable experience in the process.
If Moss can go, the Aggies will have a potent one-two punch in the backfield. If not, Owens will again shoulder the load - and he’s shown he’s more than capable of doing just that.
What’s at stake
This isn’t just a battle between two storied programs - it’s a ticket to the next round, where the winner will face the Ohio State Buckeyes. Miami and Texas A&M have met five times before, with the Hurricanes holding a narrow 3-2 edge in the series. But history won’t mean much once the pads start popping in College Station.
Both teams have plenty to prove and more than enough talent to make a run. Miami’s defense, even banged up, is still one of the best in the country.
Texas A&M has dynamic playmakers on both sides of the ball and a home crowd that will be in full voice. This is playoff football - and it’s coming fast.
Catch it all on ABC, where the stakes are sky-high and the margin for error is razor-thin.