MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — After an impressive defensive performance in a 10–3 win over No. 7 Texas A&M in the opening round of the College Football Playoff, the No. 10 Miami Hurricanes will face No. 2 Ohio State in the Cotton Bowl on Dec. 31 at AT&T Stadium.

Here are three keys for the Hurricanes to punch their ticket to the semifinals on Jan. 8.

• Control the line of scrimmage running the football: Although the Hurricanes managed to score just 10 points in their seven-point win over the Aggies, they are in this position because of their ability to run the football, particularly in the second half. Mark Fletcher Jr., who announced he is returning to the university next season, finished with 172 yards on 17 carries – including a 56-yard run in the fourth quarter that set up wide receiver Malachi Toney’s game-winning touchdown.

• Limit Jeremiah Smith’s playmaking ability: If you’re a college football fan, you’ve probably heard the name Jeremiah Smith. The Miami Gardens, Florida, native, who played high school football at Chaminade-Madonna in Hollywood, has made numerous big plays for the Buckeyes, whether it’s a pass for a big gain or a third-down catch to move the chains. Hurricanes head coach Mario Cristobal had strong words for Smith during his media availability Monday.

• Turnover-free football is crucial for Carson Beck: Beck, who threw for just 103 yards on 20 pass attempts in windy conditions, didn’t commit a turnover against a ferocious Aggies defense. Not turning the ball over to give the Buckeyes extra possessions is crucial if the Hurricanes, currently listed as 9.5-point underdogs, want to advance in the bracket.