Indiana Hoosiers win national championship over Miami Hurricanes

The Indiana Hoosiers are the 2026 College Football Playoff champions after holding off the Miami Hurricanes in an epic showdown… and completing a perfect 16-0 season!!

The Crimson and Cream – led by Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza — took a 10-0 lead in the first half… but Carson Beck and the Canes didn’t go down without a fight, clawing back in the second half as both teams traded scores.

With IU leading 27-21 in the final two minutes, Beck had a chance to lead his team down the field for a potential game-winning drive – but he threw it right into the hands of Jamari Sharpe… and the Hoosiers secured their first title in school history.

Mendoza went 16/27 for 186 passing yards through the air…he hit Omar Cooper Jr. five times for 71 yards, and connected with Charlie Becker four times for 65. He also had a crucial and breathtaking rushing touchdown.

The Miami quarterback had 232 yards, a touchdown and an interception in the losing effort… with Malachi Toney being his favorite target. He had 122 yards and a score on 10 receptions.

On the ground, Kaelon Black had 79 yards for the new champs… and Roman Hemby had 60 of his own.

It was super sweet for Mendoza – he grew up in Miami and tried to suit up for the Hurricanes in 2022… and he made sure to point out after the game that the program declined.