What Time Do the Miami Hurricanes Play Today? Getting Ready for the Big Game

What Time Do the Miami Hurricanes Play Today? Getting Ready for the Big Game

If you're asking what time do the miami hurricanes play today, you’re probably buzzing with that specific kind of nervous energy only a Canes fan knows. It’s Sunday, January 18, 2026. The air in South Florida is thick with anticipation, and honestly, it’s not just because of the humidity.

We are currently in the eye of the storm.

If you are looking for a kickoff time for right now—today, Sunday—there isn't one. The No. 10 Miami Hurricanes football team is actually gearing up for the biggest game in twenty years, but it doesn't happen until tomorrow. However, there is a massive schedule of events happening today that you'll want to keep on your radar if you're trying to soak up every bit of this National Championship atmosphere.

The Short Answer: When Do the Canes Take the Field?

The Miami Hurricanes do not play a game today, Sunday, January 18. Their next game is the College Football Playoff National Championship against the No. 1 Indiana Hoosiers.

That game kicks off tomorrow, Monday, January 19, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. ET.

💡 You might also like: Cómo entender la tabla de Copa Oro y por qué los puntos no siempre cuentan la historia completa

It's happening right in our backyard at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. If you're watching from home, it’ll be broadcast on ESPN.

But wait. Just because there isn't a game "today" doesn't mean the Hurricanes aren't active. This Sunday is basically the "Day Zero" of the championship. There are massive fan events at the Miami Beach Convention Center and Lummus Park that are basically mandatory for anyone wearing orange and green right now.

What’s Happening in Miami Today?

Since you've got the itch for Canes action, you should know that Sunday is actually a huge day for the program off the field. Mario Cristobal and the staff are basically under lockdown, but the fans are everywhere.

  • Playoff Fan Central: This is running from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. today at the Miami Beach Convention Center. It's free. If you want to see the trophy or get some autographs, that’s where you go.
  • Head Coaches News Conference: This actually happened earlier this morning at 9 a.m. Cristobal and Indiana’s Curt Cignetti did the final press rounds. The vibe? Business-like.
  • Championship Tailgate & Playlist Live: Tonight at Lummus Park, they’ve got the massive concert series going from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. It's the last big party before the serious business starts tomorrow night.

Honestly, it feels a bit surreal. A few years ago, we were wondering if we'd ever see the U back in this position. Now, we're 24 hours away from a sixth ring.

📖 Related: Ohio State Football All White Uniforms: Why the Icy Look Always Sparks a Debate

What About Basketball and Other Sports?

Sometimes when people ask what time do the miami hurricanes play today, they’re looking for the hoops schedule. The hardwood Canes are having a wild season of their own.

The Men's Basketball team just played yesterday, Saturday the 17th, in a tough road game against Clemson. They lost a close one, 69-59, which snapped a pretty impressive winning streak.

Because they played yesterday, they are off today. Their next matchup is a massive rivalry game:

  • Opponent: Florida State Seminoles
  • Date: Tuesday, January 20, 2026
  • Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
  • Location: Watsco Center, Coral Gables

If you’re a fan of the Olympic sports, the Men’s Tennis team had a double-header yesterday where they absolutely crushed North Florida and Buffalo. They don't have a match scheduled for today either.

👉 See also: Who Won the Golf Tournament This Weekend: Richard T. Lee and the 2026 Season Kickoff

The National Championship Matchup: What to Expect

Since tomorrow is the main event, let's talk about why everyone is searching for the game time. This isn't just another game. The Hurricanes (13-2) are the No. 10 seed, playing the role of the "home underdog" against a 15-0 Indiana team that hasn't blinked all year.

The odds opened with Miami as a +8.5 point underdog. Most people think Indiana’s offensive efficiency is too much, but they haven't played in the Hard Rock when it’s shaking.

Key Info for Tomorrow’s Game:

  • Kickoff: 7:30 p.m. ET (Monday, Jan 19)
  • Channel: ESPN (Main broadcast with Fowler and Herbstreit)
  • Radio: 560 WQAM or ESPN Radio
  • Weather: Expected to be a beautiful 63°F at kickoff.

You've probably noticed that the city is different this week. There’s a "Takeover" event today at the Palm Tree Club in North Bay Village. It’s basically a massive pre-game for the pre-game. If you’re looking to find other fans today, that’s the spot.

Practical Steps for Canes Fans Today

If you're in town and looking for something to do since there isn't a game on the schedule for this Sunday afternoon:

  1. Head to Miami Beach: The Playoff Fan Central is worth the trip just for the exhibits. It closes at 6 p.m., so move fast.
  2. Gear Up: If you don't have your National Championship merch yet, the campus bookstore and the pop-up shops at the Convention Center are stocked, but they are getting picked over quickly.
  3. Check the Apps: Make sure you have the Miami Hurricanes app updated. With the game being at the Hard Rock, parking passes and tickets are 100% digital and the traffic updates for tomorrow will start rolling in tonight.
  4. Plan Your Commute: If you are going to the game tomorrow, remember that the "Championship Tailgate" at the stadium opens at 11 a.m. Monday. Traffic in Miami Gardens is going to be a nightmare starting around 2 p.m. tomorrow.

It’s a great time to be a Cane. Enjoy the calm before the storm today. Tomorrow, we go for number six.

Actionable Next Steps: Check your digital ticket wallet now to ensure your CFP National Championship passes are loaded and ready for tomorrow's 7:30 p.m. kickoff. If you're attending the fan events today, aim to arrive at the Miami Beach Convention Center before 3 p.m. to beat the late-afternoon rush.