The College Football Playoff is in full swing, and with it comes a fierce showdown between the best teams in amateur football. The rest of the original 12 teams are the best in the country. For NFL fans, this means you may be seeing these players one last time before they enter the NFL Draft.
With that in mind, we wanted to highlight some players that fans should watch during the Cotton Bowl game between Miami (Fla.) and Ohio State.
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The matchup itself was one that many fans were eagerly anticipating when the playoff brackets were announced. For Hurricanes fans, they will be looking to avenge the loss the Buckeyes inflicted on them in the 2003 Fiesta Bowl, which decided the BCS national championship. For NFL fans as a whole, it allows some rookies to tape some final games before their draft season.
With that in mind, here are three prospects from Ohio State and Miami that we’ll be keeping an eye on on New Year’s Eve.
Miami Hurricanes outlook to watch
Reuben Bain Jr., edge rusher
The star player on Miami’s defense came to prominence in the first round against Texas A&M. He finished with five game-breaking tackles, four tackles for loss and three sacks. In the process, he helped the Hurricanes reach the next round of the playoffs, but he also reminded the NFL what they were getting when he was drafted in April. I’ve always been adamant about Bane’s player comparisons to Aaron Donald, as an undersized defensive lineman who used his speed and hand combat to earn reps against offensive linemen. He’s going to have the attention of the Buckeyes, you, and the NFL all game long.
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Francis Moygoa, offensive tackle
After Francis Mauigoa was drafted into the NFL, evaluators were divided on whether he would be a tackle or be forced inside. Regardless, he will be one of the best offensive linemen in the 2026 NFL Draft class if he declares. Mauigoa displays quick feet, strong hands on offense, and the balance to not be overwhelmed by defenders regardless of size. He’s going to have a hard time matching up against the wealth of Buckeye talent in the front seven, but if he sticks around, it could be a game-changer for Miami.
Keonte Scott, cornerback
After Bane, Keonte Scott had the most impressive performance for the Buckeyes in the first round of the College Football Playoff. The Hurricanes nickel back surrendered seven catches on eight targets but only gave up 35 total yards. He displays good closing speed, smooth movement skills and the instinct to be a Day 1 starter if drafted. Ohio State quarterback Julian Sain is prone to mistakes early in games, and if Scott can help him make some, the Hurricanes have a chance to advance.
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Ohio State Buckeyes prospects to watch
Caiden McDonald, defensive tackle
Ohio State’s defense featured heavily in the front seven, but no one had the same impact Mike Pond Made for the Buckeyes. McDonald has been a dominant force in their defense while clogging up running lanes and giving opponents options on offense. McDonald doesn’t have the pass-rushing ability some are looking for in an interior player, but he’s a true run-filler and therefore a good fit for a first-round team.
Sonny Styles, guard
Everyone is talking about Avre Reese in Ohio State’s defensive back group, but Styles is the forgotten star of their unit. His NFL pedigree and athleticism allow him to utilize his physical attributes, and his handling shines when he drops back into coverage and looks like a safety with the range he’s shown. He is the ultimate difference-maker in this defense and will be on the field on New Year’s Eve and next year in the NFL.
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Caleb Downs, safety
Towns is the crown jewel of the 2026 NFL Draft, and if he doesn’t play an underrated position, he will be considered for the No. 1 overall pick. Because he plays safety, that means someone is going to take the snap and be an instant impact player. Towns roamed the Buckeyes’ defense, picking up pieces against the run, breaking down deep passes and even showing off some pass rushing in unique situations. He’s the ultimate utility player on defense and will start on Day 1 no matter where he’s drafted.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: 2026 NFL Draft prospects to watch when Ohio State and Miami play
