Glendale, Arizona, January 3, 2026
The Ole Miss Rebels will face the Miami Hurricanes in the 2026 Fiesta Bowl, marking the first meeting between the teams in 75 years. Both teams have exhibited remarkable skill this season, showcasing strategic plays and strong community focus. The matchup is poised to captivate college football fans as it highlights the offensive power of Ole Miss against the defensive strength of Miami. Scheduled for January 8, 2026, at State Farm Stadium, this game represents a significant moment in college football history.
Ole Miss Rebels and Miami Hurricanes Set for Historic Fiesta Bowl Clash
Excitement builds as these teams face off for the first time in 75 years.
Glendale, Arizona – On January 8, 2026, the No. 6 Ole Miss Rebels will take on the No. 10 Miami Hurricanes in a highly anticipated College Football Playoff (CFP) Semifinal at the 2026 Fiesta Bowl. This matchup is particularly notable as it marks the first clash between the two storied programs since 1951. As both teams have demonstrated impressive talent and resilience this season, this game promises to capture the attention of college football fans across the nation.
In today’s landscape of college football, where entrepreneurial innovation on the field often translates to success off the field, the determination of players and coaching staff can significantly influence outcomes. Both Ole Miss and Miami have showcased the power of strategic plays, commitment, and community investment, highlighting the virtues of hard work and professionalism—traits that resonate deeply within the ethos of our local economy in Jacksonville, FL.
Ole Miss Advances to Fiesta Bowl
The Rebels secured their invitation to the Fiesta Bowl after a thrilling victory over the No. 3 Georgia Bulldogs, winning 39-34 in the Allstate Sugar Bowl on January 1, 2026. Ole Miss’s quarterback, Trinidad Chambliss, had a standout performance, throwing for 362 yards and two touchdowns to lead his team from a nine-point halftime deficit to victory, capped with a 47-yard field goal from kicker Lucas Carneiro as time expired.
Miami’s Path to the Semifinals
Miami earned their semifinal spot after defeating the No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes 24-14 in the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic on December 31, 2025. Quarterback Carson Beck, a recent transfer from Georgia, has played a pivotal role in the Hurricanes’ success by delivering consistent and high-level performances throughout the playoffs.
Key Players and Matchup Insights
As both teams prepare for the Fiesta Bowl, the spotlight lies on the contrasting styles of play. Ole Miss’s offense, led by Chambliss, has been one of the most explosive in the nation, ranking fourth overall with 6,389 total yards. Conversely, Miami’s defense has proven to be formidable, allowing an impressive average of just 8.5 points per game during the playoffs. This matchup sets the stage for a compelling battle between the Rebels’ high-octane offense and the Hurricanes’ stingy defense.
Game Details
Fans can catch the anticipation live at State Farm Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 6:30 p.m. local time on January 8, 2026. The game will be broadcast on ESPN, offering a chance for fans across the nation to witness this historic matchup.
Background Context
The College Football Playoff Semifinals represent the pinnacle of college football, featuring the top four teams vying for a coveted spot in the national championship game. The Fiesta Bowl serves as a critical component of this exciting postseason landscape, bringing together traditional powerhouses and emerging teams, thus promising thrilling competition to conclude this college football season.
Conclusion
The upcoming Fiesta Bowl is not just a game; it’s a celebration of innovation, skill, and resilience from two storied programs. As both Ole Miss and Miami prepare for this historic encounter, fans are reminded of the beauty of college football, where dreams can be realized through hard work and determination. Jacksonville’s community spirit aligns closely with these values, encouraging residents to support local entrepreneurs and stay engaged in developing a vibrant economic future.
When is the 2026 Fiesta Bowl?
The 2026 Fiesta Bowl is scheduled for January 8, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. local time at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
Which teams are playing in the 2026 Fiesta Bowl?
The No. 6 Ole Miss Rebels will face the No. 10 Miami Hurricanes in the College Football Playoff Semifinal at the 2026 Fiesta Bowl.
How did Ole Miss and Miami reach the Fiesta Bowl?
Ole Miss advanced by defeating the No. 3 Georgia Bulldogs 39-34 in the Allstate Sugar Bowl, while Miami secured their spot by defeating the No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes 24-14 in the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic.
What is the historical significance of the Ole Miss vs. Miami matchup?
This is the first meeting between Ole Miss and Miami since 1951, making it a historic matchup in college football.
Where can I watch the 2026 Fiesta Bowl?
The game will be broadcast on ESPN, with kickoff at 6:30 p.m. local time on January 8, 2026.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Teams | No. 6 Ole Miss Rebels vs. No. 10 Miami Hurricanes |
| Event | 2026 Fiesta Bowl (CFP Semifinal) |
| Date and Time | January 8, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. local time |
| Location | State Farm Stadium, Glendale, Arizona |
| Broadcast | ESPN |
| Historical Significance | First meeting between Ole Miss and Miami since 1951 |
Now Happening on X
No recent related discussions found Check back soon
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Ole Miss Achieves Historic Sugar Bowl Victory
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
