Overview
- No. 1 Indiana (15-0) seeks its first national title and a 16-0 finish behind Heisman Trophy quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who has 41 touchdown passes with mistake-free playoff performances.
- No. 10 Miami (13-2) plays in its home market after a defensive march through Texas A&M and Ohio State and a late rally to beat Ole Miss in the Fiesta Bowl.
- Betting markets list Indiana around -8.5 with a total near 47.5, reflecting national models and predictions that lean Hoosiers.
- The matchup focuses on trench play and styles: Indiana’s efficient, turnover-minded attack and disciplined defense against Miami’s front-driven defense and power rushing led by Mark Fletcher Jr.
- South Florida ties shape local interest, with numerous alumni on both sidelines—including Mendoza and Hurricanes standouts—while secondary-market ticket prices have held steady near $2,900–$3,100.