Cincinnati rallied from a massive second-half deficit to beat Miami (OH) 35-31, keeping their undefeated Big 12 record intact.
The Cincinnati Bearcats improved to 3-0 with a gritty 35-31 victory over the Miami (OH) RedHawks on September 19. Despite trailing by 21 points at halftime, the Bearcats rallied behind strong individual performances from quarterback JC French IV and running back Cole Tabb to secure the win in the “Battle for the Victory Bell.” The decisive factor was Cincinnati’s ability to execute critical scoring drives in the second half while limiting Miami (OH)’s high-powered offense after the break.
Cincinnati Bearcats Performance
Cincinnati entered the contest needing to prove its resilience, a trait that was tested severely in the first half. The Bearcats’ defense struggled to contain Miami (OH)’s attack early on, allowing the RedHawks to build a commanding lead. However, the offensive unit found its rhythm in the second half, driven by the dual-threat capabilities of QB JC French IV. French IV completed 31 of 43 passes for 309 yards and two touchdowns. He also contributed on the ground with a crucial 1-yard touchdown run that helped shift the momentum.
Running back Cole Tabb was instrumental in the comeback, rushing for 78 yards on six carries with two touchdowns. His efforts included a key 1-yard run and an 8-yard reception from French IV, showcasing the versatility that defines Cincinnati’s offense. Wide receiver JV Gibson led the receiving corps with seven catches for 68 yards and one touchdown, providing reliable targets in high-leverage situations.
On the defensive side, the Bearcats tightened up as the game progressed. Antwan Peek Jr. led the defense with nine total tackles, anchoring the front seven, while Josh Hough recorded one sack to apply pressure on Miami (OH) quarterback David McComb. The team’s ability to stay composed after falling behind demonstrated significant maturity for a squad aiming for conference supremacy.
Miami (OH) RedHawks Performance
Miami (OH) came out firing, establishing an early dominance that put them in control of the “Battle for the Victory Bell.” Quarterback David McComb orchestrated the RedHawks’ offense efficiently, completing 17 of 28 passes for 334 yards and one touchdown. While he threw one interception, his overall distribution kept Cincinnati’s defense off balance for the majority of the first half.
Wide receiver Maleek Huggins was a thorn in Cincinnati’s side, hauling in four passes for 128 yards and a score. His 36-yard touchdown reception extended Miami (OH)’s lead and highlighted the speed advantage the RedHawks possessed. Running back Rodney Nelson provided support on the ground, rushing for 32 yards on seven carries, though the volume was limited compared to the aerial attack.
Defensively, Miami (OH) started strong but struggled to maintain pressure in the second half. Grant Lyons led the RedHawks’ pass rush with two sacks, and linebacker Blayne Myrick recorded 11 total tackles, showing effort throughout the contest. However, the inability to stop Cincinnati’s short-yardage runs and quick passes in the final two quarters ultimately cost them the game. The RedHawks finished with a valiant effort but could not hold off the Bearcats’ late surge.
Turning Point
The turning point of the game occurred in the second half when Cincinnati’s offense began to exploit mismatches in the red zone. After Scoop Smith returned a kickoff 98 yards for a touchdown earlier in the game, Miami (OH) had built a substantial lead. However, once French IV connected with Tabb for the 8-yard gain and executed his own 1-yard run, the Bearcats chipped away at the deficit. The subsequent field goal by Kellan McLaughlin for Miami (OH) kept them ahead, but Cincinnati’s defensive stops following those scores prevented any further separation. The Bearcats’ third touchdown drive, fueled by Tabb’s rushing and French IV’s passing, proved to be the dagger.
Key Takeaways
- Resilience Under Pressure: Cincinnati’s ability to overcome a 21-point halftime deficit highlights the mental toughness of this roster.
- Offensive Balance: French IV and Tabb combined for multiple scoring methods, making it difficult for defenses to key in on one aspect of the attack.
- Big 12 Implications: This win keeps Cincinnati tied with Kansas State at 3-0, setting up a pivotal head-to-head matchup next week.
- Defensive Adjustment: The Bearcats’ second-half defensive intensity, led by Antwan Peek Jr., was crucial in slowing down Miami (OH)’s passing game.
What It Means
This victory solidifies Cincinnati’s position as one of only 35 unbeaten teams in college football following Week 3. They are now tied with Kansas State (also 3-0) heading into a critical Big 12 clash. The Bearcats will look to maintain their perfect record when they host the Kansas State Wildcats on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Nippert Stadium. With both teams undefeated, this upcoming matchup will serve as a de facto conference preview. Cincinnati will need to replicate the defensive intensity shown against Miami (OH), particularly from players like Josh Hough and Antwan Peek Jr., to contain a potent Kansas State attack. For Miami (OH), the loss is a stinging defeat despite their impressive statistical output, and they will look to regroup as they continue their season.
🎧 Listen every day
Beatline Sports covers every team, every day — new episodes each morning.