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2h ago

Indiana Wins First National Title With 27-21 Victory Over Miami to Complete 16-0 Season

Curt Cignetti’s two-year overhaul turned a long-struggling program into a champion behind Heisman quarterback Fernando Mendoza.

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Jan 19, 2026; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) celebrates with wide receiver Charlie Becker (80) after scoring a touchdown against the Miami Hurricanes during the second half of the CFP National Championship college football game at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Grace Hollars-USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images
Jan 19, 2026; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) carries the ball for a touchdown against the Miami Hurricanes in the fourth quarter during the College Football Playoff National Championship game at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • Fernando Mendoza powered the Hoosiers with a fourth-down, 12-yard rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter and is widely projected to be the No. 1 pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.
  • Indiana’s special teams and defense delivered decisive moments, including Mikail Kamara’s blocked punt that Isaiah Jones returned for a touchdown and Jamari Sharpe’s interception with 44 seconds left.
  • The title game was played at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium with the Hurricanes designated as the visitors, and ticket demand surged with a reported get‑in price near $3,652 a day before kickoff.
  • Curt Cignetti improved to 27-2 over two seasons as Indiana became the first major-college team since 1894 Yale to finish 16-0, securing the program’s first national championship.
  • Cignetti criticized officials at halftime over uncalled personal fouls on Mendoza during a physical game in which the quarterback was bloodied, while increased alumni support, including new football contributions from Mark Cuban, highlighted the program’s NIL-era rise.