FRESNO STATE, MIAMI (OHIO) SET FOR DESERT SHOWDOWN TUCSON, Ariz. (Interstat) — A pair of teams on divergent late-season trajectories will meet in the desert when the Fresno State Bulldogs face the Miami (Ohio) Redhawks at Arizona Stadium on Saturday, Dec. 27, 2025. Fresno State (8-4) enters having won three of its final four regular-season games, capped by a commanding 41-14 road victory over San Jose State on Nov. 29. The Bulldogs’ offense found balance in that win, with running backs Elijah Gilliam (92 yards, 2 TDs) and Brandon Ramirez (47 yards, 1 TD) leading a potent ground attack. Miami (Ohio) (7-6) looks to rebound from a 23-13 loss at Western Michigan on Dec. 6 that snapped a two-game winning streak. The Redhawks’ quarterback play was inconsistent in the defeat, with Henry Hesson and Thomas Gotkowski combining to complete just 14 of 37 passes. Jordan Brunson provided a bright spot with 59 rushing yards and a touchdown. The Bulldogs, under second-year coach Jeff Tedford, have shown resilience, bouncing back from a mid-season shutout loss to San Diego State with strong defensive performances. Their season includes a notable road win at Oregon State in September. The Redhawks, led by veteran coach Chuck Martin, have been streaky, alternating wins and losses over their final seven games. Their offense has been explosive at times, scoring 45 points against Ball State and 44 against Eastern Michigan, but was held to 20 points or fewer in four of their six losses. According to National Statistical’s game simulator, Fresno State is projected to win a close contest, 30-26. However, oddsmakers list Miami (Ohio) as a 5.5-point favorite, with an over/under total set at 41.5 points. The neutral-site game at the home of the Arizona Wildcats presents a unique setting for both programs. Fresno State will rely on its momentum and more consistent season record, while Miami (Ohio) aims to leverage its status as the betting favorite and salvage a winning record with a postseason victory. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. MST. The game will be televised on ESPN.