Miami receives mostly good news in initial availability report ahead of Cotton Bowl

It's a relatively short list for Miami.
2025 College Football Playoff First Round Game - Miami v Texas A&M
2025 College Football Playoff First Round Game - Miami v Texas A&M | Tim Warner/GettyImages

Miami and Ohio State will release updated availability reports the next two nights, but the first "three days out" report is in, and it's a relatively short list for the Hurricanes.

The College Football Playoff requires teams to publish availability reports three days out, plus updates Monday and Tuesday night, with a final update due 90 minutes before kickoff.

Miami availability (initial report)

Miami listed three players as out: defensive back Damari Brown, linebacker Malik Bryant and wide receiver Daylyn Upshaw. Defensive lineman Donta Simpson is listed as doubtful.

Brown is the most notable name on that list because he has started games at corner this season, and his absence impacts Miami's depth in the secondary. Safety Zachariah Poyser and linebacker Mohamed Toure are expected back after being nicked up against Texas A&M. Toure gained some recognition last week after trying to force his way back on the field after being visibly shaken up late in the game.

Ohio State availability (initial report)

Ohio State's report is longer, but it features just one regular starter in question. Right guard Tegra Tshabola is listed as doubtful, along with defensive tackle Ahmed Tounkara.

The Buckeyes listed six players as probable: offensive lineman Devontae Armstrong, safety Cody Haddad, wide receiver De'Zie Jones, running back Anthony "Turbo" Rogers, defensive tackle Will Smith Jr., and safety Deshawn Stewart.

Ohio State listed four players as out: defensive end Logan George, safety Malik Hartford, quarterback Mason Maggs and wide receiver Quincy Porter.

What to watch for next

These are availability designations, not detailed injury descriptions, and they can change quickly this week.

The No. 10 Hurricanes and No. 2 Buckeyes meet Wednesday, Dec. 31 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, in the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic. Kickoff is slated for 6:40 p.m. CT (7:40 p.m. ET) on ESPN. 

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