It’s been widely reported this week, but to no surprise that Nick Saban’s legacy is well-represented in the 2026 College Football Semifinals. Indiana’s Curt Cignetti, Oregon’s Dan Lanning, Miami’s Mario Cristobal and Ole Miss’ Pete Golding: Those are Saban’s former assistants at Alabama that became head coaches at Power 4 programs across the country. It’s no surprise that all four teams are strong on the offensive and defensive lines and they rarely beat themselves.

The first semifinal features two teams that were underdogs in the quarterfinals, but their performances have been far from underdog stature.

I received a text from a friend, “I’ve been waiting all my life for someone to jump that BULLS$%% play.”

This is excellent preparation and coaching and propelled the U to an upset against Ohio State.

Ole Miss has a quarterback that is as good as anyone in college. Chambliss’ 2nd half against Georgia was a legendary performance.

ML Prediction

These teams are evenly matched talent-wise and I don’t think there is a coaching edge. Both have two college playoff wins and Golding may be young in experience, but Ole Miss’ 2nd half adjustments against a top 3 coach in America provides them with all the confidence they need.

Ole Miss at Miami (FL) -3. The Pick: Ole Miss 24 Miami (FL) 20

Tariq Prediction

The battle of the underdogs will take place in Glendale Arizona. Most had Miami losing in the first round, including me, and many wrote off Ole Miss after Lane Kiffen’s departure.

There are a few things you can’t measure in sports, and life really; heart, motivation, determination, perseverance, confidence and belief. The heart of both teams, the motivation of the Rebels losing their head coach before a potential Natty run, the determination of Carson Beck and the Hurricanes. The perseverance of Trinidad Chambliss, who looked like a superstar on New Year’s, from Ferris State to the CFP Semifinals. The confidence and belief both teams have in each other is apparent.

With all that being said, who has the edge? Who’s ready for the moment? Will the defenses continue to dominate? Will Trinidad send Miami on vacation? Will the Hurricanes twist the Rebels?

This game comes down to big plays, very few mistakes and attention to detail.

Ole Miss at Miami (FL) -3 . The Pick: Ole Miss 27 Miami (FL) 21