An open discussion for anyone who’s extensively watched both teams play this year. 

Offensively:

Both have good passing attacks, Miami’s being slightly better, with Texas A&M having the much better rushing attack (if their RBs are healthy). Their leading rusher Rueben Owens went down against South Carolina and Texas in November with lower body injuries, his status is unclear headed into the playoffs. Their other leading rusher Leveon Moss has been out since week 7 with a significant ankle injury, it’s also unclear if he will be back for the playoffs. Texas A&M has a true dual threat QB though, that can give any defense fits with his legs. Miami has one of the worst rushing attacks in college football, ranking 77th.

Red zone wise, Miami is much better than Texas A&M in the red zone ranking just outside of the top 10. Texas A&M red zone offense is ranked 75th, which is weird with them having a true dual threat QB. 

Both QBs are prone to bad turnovers and errant throws with 10 interceptions each on the season. Marcel Reed has a 61% completion percentage, a lot lower than Carson Beck at 75% (inflated by how much Miami throws behind the LOS).

Defensively, this is where Miami has the clear edge. Their DL is full of dudes, and they have a top 10 rushing defense and scoring defense. Neither team is particularly great at defending the pass with both defenses being ranked outside the top 20 and both defenses are terrible in the red zone, Miami being ranked 70th in red zone defense and Texas A&M being ranked 129th. Texas A&M defense is boom or bust, they’re either giving up a big play or making a big play.

All in all, I see neither team as threats to Ohio State, especially if Texas A&M doesn’t get Moss and Owens back healthy. If I had to pick which one Ohio State probably has a more difficult time with, it’s Miami due to how big and physical they are on each line. But, Carson Beck will always Carson Beck at some point.