The Miami Hurricanes came into the 1991 Cotton Bowl in a unique situation for the ‘Canes in that era- they were not playing for a national championship. Since 1983, Miami had played for the title five times over seven seasons. But 1990 was different, however, as the ‘Canes had dropped their season opener to BYU in Provo 21-28, and then lost to Notre Dame in South Bend 20-29. 16 points separated the Hurricanes from playing for yet another national title.
Teams in that situation can usually take two routes: dominate the game and defend your honor or come out flat an uninspired in a losing effort.