Miami’s CFP hopes take a big hit after it squanders 21-0 lead to Syracuse; Clemson will play in the ACC title game

The Miami Hurricanes, who control their own destiny for the College Football Playoff going into Saturday, can now do nothing but pray.

The Canes missed out on a spot in next week’s ACC Championship after being upset by Syracuse, 42-38.

Now, Miami’s chances of making the 12-team playoff are very much up in the air.

Miami’s loss gave Clemson a bid for an ACC championship. Now, the winner of SMU-Clemson in the ACC title game will receive an automatic bid to the College Football Playoff.

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Jackson Meeks (7) of the Syracuse Orange reacts after scoring a touchdown in the second quarter against the Miami Hurricanes at the JMA Wireless Dome on November 30, 2024 in Syracuse, NY (Bryan M. Bennett/Getty Images)

The Hurricanes scored early and often, jumping out to a 21-0 lead early in the second quarter. But the Orange struck out and tied the game on their first drive of the second half.

But late in the third, with the game tied at 28, Syracuse’s Devin Grant picked up a fumble and returned it 56 yards to the house to give Syracuse the lead. Miami responded with a touchdown, but the Orange responded with another.

On 4th and goal at the 15-yard line late in the game, the Hurricanes made the odd decision to kick a field goal to cut their deficit to four. Granted, scoring would have required a 15-yard play, but Miami also risked not touching the ball the rest of the game while still needing a touchdown.

That’s exactly what happened. Syracuse got three first downs to end the game.

LeQuint Allen (1) of the Syracuse Orange scores a touchdown in the second quarter against the Miami Hurricanes at the JMA Wireless Dome on November 30, 2024 in Syracuse, NY (Bryan M. Bennett/Getty Images)

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Saturday marked the fourth time this season Miami had trailed in the fourth quarter. This time, however, it did not go in his favor.

In what could be his final game with Miami, Cam Ward completed 25 of his 36 passes for 349 yards. Kyle McCord went 26-for-36 for 380 yards in the win.

The loss also largely opens the door for Alabama, which entered Saturday ranked 13th in the country. The Crimson Tide took care of business by winning the Iron Bowl against Auburn.

Syracuse Orange quarterback Kyle McCord (6) drops back to pass against the Miami Hurricanes in the first half at the JMA Wireless Dome. (Rich Barnes/Imagn Images)

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All the canes can do now is wait.

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