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Former Miami Hurricanes Defensive Game-Changer Recalls Iconic Pick
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- Former Miami Hurricanes Defensive Game-Changer Recalls Iconic Pick
(Jerome Miron-Imagn Images)
MIAMI, Fla. – In the 2025-26 College Football Playoffs, there are several memorable Miami Hurricanes moments. You can pinpoint Mark Fletcher Jr.'s 56-yard dash against Texas A&M, Bryce Fitzgerald's game-winning interception, and Carson Beck 's touchdown against Ole Miss.
However, they might not compare to Keionte Scott's 72-yard pick-six – the fourth-longest return yardage in College Football Playoff history – against the Ohio State Buckeyes . The Hurricanes were severely doubted entering the Cotton Bowl quarterfinal matchup. Regardless of all the outside noise, the team never trailed in a 24-14 outing.
Before Scott's big play, Ohio State star wide receiver Jeremiah Smith caught a 56-yard pass to get the Buckeyes in scoring territory – already facing a 7-0 deficit. The very next play, the Hurricanes star cornerback responded.
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In an interview on the Caps Off Podcast, Scott relived the moment:
"We had the momentum up to [the Smith catch]," he said. "They come out of the huddle, we get the play call, and my heart just gets so warm. I'm like, 'What is this feeling?' They come out and I just knew it was my moment. When you watch the clip, watch my eyes. I don't think I knew who was [across from me]. All throughout the week, we're hearing 'Four strong, tight end motion in front screen.'
Smith was lined up directly from Scott. He was assigned to block, but the 24-year-old managed to get around with a simple move.
"I don't want to give it [away] because he's going to cut me off," Scott added. "I start scooting over to the right a little bit. It's like I'm giving him the outside presence. As soon as the tight end moves, I just start smiling."
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Scott revealed he was dealing with a hand injury – sustained from the first-round matchup against Texas A&M. He described it as a "perfect" pass for him to catch. While running down the field, Scott stared down Ohio State's sideline. He mentioned looking at an alumnus and sticking his tongue out at him.
Scott reached the end zone, spun the football, and hit the Jim Thorpe award pose – despite not winning it.
"I felt like from that moment, the game was over," he said.
Even though it was just one season, Scott will likely live on as one of the Hurricanes' most memorable players. The play is among the many symbols of "The U" returning to its former glory. Scott is now a member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers , starting a new chapter in football.
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Anthony Aguirre is the Miami Hurricanes beat writer for Roundtable Sports. Contact info: alexagmu@gmail.com | 305-987-3290 | Follow on Instagram/X: @AnthonyA_Sports
