History will be made between Indiana and Miami tonight in Miami Gardens, Florida — and not just because one will emerge victorious in the 2026 College Football Playoff championship.
It’s because, as NBC Sports college football insider Nicole Auerbach writes, the outcome is guaranteed to have an enormous impact on either program while also speaking volumes about the current state of the sport.
A victory by top-seeded Indiana would be its first and punctuate one of the most remarkable turnarounds in sports history with a 16-0 season (the first since Yale in 1894).
The losingest team in college football before the arrival of “unicorn” coach Curt Cignetti barely two years ago, the Hoosiers jaw-droppingly have become the blueprint for overnight success in the transfer and NIL era.
Meanwhile, the bruising march to a hometown title game by 10th-seeded Miami has been a reclamation of past glory. “The U” can win its sixth national championship but the first since 2001 for a proud program that has produced a plethora of dynamic and legendary NFL superstars such as Michael Irvin, Ray Lewis and Ed Reed (the defensive anchor of the 2001 team).
Many of those luminaries will be cheering on their alma mater in person tonight as another renowed alum, head coach Mario Cristobal, tries to join elite company. Cristobal could become one of the few to win a national title as a player and coach — and the first Cuban-American to guide a championship team in history.
In a playoff marked by some spectacular storylines, compelling comebacks and memorable heroics, this looms as the most intriguing matchup yet.
Picture-perfect day here in Miami. pic.twitter.com/vO7R5Gxtd6
— Nicole Auerbach (@NicoleAuerbach) January 19, 2026
Follow along below for our live coverage here with updates before, during and after the big game.
How to watch Indiana vs. Miami in the CFP championship
- Kickoff: 7:30 p.m. ET
- Where: Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida
- TV: ESPN (pregame from 5-7:30 p.m.)
- Announcers/reporters: Chris Fowler, Kirk Herbstreit, Holly Rowe, Molly McGrath
- Other networks: ESPN2 (Field Pass), ESPNU (Film Room), ESPNEWS (Skycast), ACCN (Field Pass), ESPN Deportes (Spanish)
Indiana-Miami national championship live updates
Complete stats wrapup and some final numbers ...
Click here for the 27-page final book that recaps all the drives, plays and statistics in Indiana’s 27-21 victory over Miami in the College Football Playoff National Championship.
Here are a few key individual performances and team categories:
Indiana: Fernando Mendoza 16 of 27 passing, 186 yards, 117.1 rating; Kaelon Black, 17 carries for 79 yards; Roman Hemby 19 carries for 60 yards; Omari Cooper Jr. five catches for 71 yards, Charlie Becker four catches for 65 yards.
Miami: Carson Beck 19 of 32 passing, 232 yards, TD, INT, 124.3 rating; Mark Fletcher Jr. 17 carries for 112 yards, 2 TDs; Malachi Toney, 10 catches for 122 yards, TD.
Total yards: Miami 342, Indiana 317
Penalties: Miami seven for 60 yards, Indiana five for 38 yards
Total plays: Miami 53, Indiana 72
First downs: Miami 15, Indiana 20
Third downs: Miami 3 for 11, Indiana 6 for 15
Fourth downs: Miami 1 for 1, Indiana 2 for 2
Sacks: Miami 3, Indiana 1
#NewProfilePic pic.twitter.com/zlYKSUvCWj
— Indiana Football (@IndianaFootball) January 20, 2026
Mario Cristobal on Miami falling just short
“That’s a really resilient, tough, really a special group of human beings. They’ve been elite competitors. They’ve been the best thing that’s happened to the University of Miami and the community in 25 years. I love them. They love each other.
“They turned around a program that … I’m really at a loss for words. Let’s just say it’s very real. We let one slip away. Credit to Indiana. Great football team. Realy tremendous amount of respect for them. Our guys never stopped battling. We gave ourselves a chance to win all the way to the end and didn’t get it done. For those coming back, a tremendous foundation, standards has been set. It’s a brotherhood that lasts forever. It’s a really difficult time, though.
“I’m really proud of our guys and really, really proud to be a Miami Hurricane. Nothing to feel sorry about or for, just pick it up and go from here. Those guys in there are legitimate champions. We didn’t get it done tonight. We’re not the national champions. But we’re champions.”
Full interview:
“I love them … they turned around a program … I’m at a loss for words.”@CanesFootball's Mario Cristobal on the message he shared with his team ❤️ pic.twitter.com/LrfJFrpzM7
— ACC Network (@accnetwork) January 20, 2026
Postgame quotes from Curt Cignetti
“It took a lot to get here. I tell you what it took to come out ahead in this game was a lot of guts.
“I give Miami a lot of credit, they played really hard. We Couldn’t get anything done, couldn’t protect the quarterback at all. Made a few plays and adjustments, made the interception when we had to, and Mendoza had a great run. Took some chances, found a way.
CIGNATTY 🏆 pic.twitter.com/pu2bHJ26X3
— Big Ten Football (@B1Gfootball) January 20, 2026
“We won the national championship at Indiana University! It can be done. I’m so happy for our fans. Words can’t describe it.”
On Fernando Mendoza: “He is so tough. He got hit, he had no time. He keeps getting back up. Just a great competitor. I can’t say enough great things about him.”
The Hoosiers just completed the first 16-0 season since 1894. Two seasons ago, Indiana was 3-9
— PFF College (@PFF_College) January 20, 2026
Curt Cignetti: Google Him🚬 https://t.co/ide0NkpYtP pic.twitter.com/OFjE8JelJh
Fernando Mendoza: ‘I’d die for my team’
The quarterback’s description of his touchdown was nearly as spellbinding as what he did to accomplish it:
“I had to go airborne. I’d die for my team. Whatever they need me to do, take a shot from the front, back or whatever. I’ll die for my team out there. I know they’ll do the same for me. ... Shoutout to the Miami defense.”
Full interview:
MR. HEISMAN IS A CFP NATIONAL CHAMP😤#CFBPlayoff #NationalChampionship pic.twitter.com/F4FVncOEg2
— College Football Playoff (@CFBPlayoff) January 20, 2026
Quick postgame recap as Indiana wins 27-21
Click here for a summary of some key moments, stats and what Curt Cignetti and Fernando Mendoza said afterward:
Roman Hemby was in shock after the game. Couldn’t believe he’s a national champion. pic.twitter.com/B7X6T5GMfX
— Nicole Auerbach (@NicoleAuerbach) January 20, 2026
Sharpe makes an interception to seal it for IU!
Miami native Jamari Sharpe likely has sealed the national championship for Indiana, which withstood a nail-biting final drive by quarterback Carson Beck.
With the Hurricanes having moved 34 yards in five plays to the Indiana 41, Sharpe picked off a pass by Beck that was intended for Keelan Marion but seemed to be underthrown.
There’s an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty on Sharpe, but the Hoosiers can kneel the clock out from their 3-yard line.
Hoosiers settle for a field goal
Indiana responded with a score, but the door was left open because of a critical penalty.
On a second and 1 from the Miami 14, Indiana virtually could have sealed the game with a first down, but Carter Smith was penalized for a false start.
Indiana was unable to convert on two runs afterward and kicked a field goal for a 27-21 lead with 1:42 left.
Miami, which has scored touchdowns on consecutive possessions, will have a shot.
Indiana +3️⃣
— College Football Playoff (@CFBPlayoff) January 20, 2026
📺ESPN pic.twitter.com/UAGPBSdfXK
Indiana comes back swinging
This truly has the markings of a heavyweight fight as these teams just keep throwing haymakers when it seems they should be out on their feet.
Needing another play under pressure, Ferndnao Mendoza again finds his favorite third-down target Charlie Becker with another patented back-shoulder throw.
The 19-yard completion on third and 7 puts the Hoosiers on the Miami 33, and Roman Hemby rushes for 10 yards on the next play to take it the 2-minute timeout on the Miami 23.
Indiana leads 24-21 with 2:00 left in the College Football Playoff National Championship game.
Malachi Toney’s moment
Miami’s sensational freshman, who technically still should be in high school, scores on a 22-yard scamper to continue an outstanding fourth quarter.
TONEY THROUGH TRAFFIC 🚦
— College Football Playoff (@CFBPlayoff) January 20, 2026
📺ESPN pic.twitter.com/OP4fq6nLGC
That caps an eight-play, 91-yard drive that took only 2:34.
Indiana leads 24-21 with 6:37 to play.
Miami refusing to yield
Consecutive strikes by Carson Beck have kept the Hurricanes in the game.
On third and 10 from the Miami 15, Alex Bauman made a 22-yard reception.
On the next play, star wide receiver Malachi Toney made a 41-yard catch and run to the Indiana 21.
Mendoza makes the run of his life!
After burning its second timeout while deciding to go for it on fourth down again, the Heisman Trophy winner again pays off the gamble.
On fourth and 4 from the Miami 12, Fernando Mendoza rumbles all the way to the end zone on a quarterback draw that might be the gutiest call of the season.
According to PFF, Mendoza’s “worst” attribute is his mobility, but it didn’t matter on that star turn! He took two shots from Miami’s bruising defenders and somehow spun out of trouble and then dove into the endzone while taking another hit.
Big time players make big time plays in big time moments
— PFF College (@PFF_College) January 20, 2026
Fernando Mendoza is built for this🗣️pic.twitter.com/cwIPXyBfvo
Indiana leads 24-14 with 9:18 remaining.
A clutch catch for IU
On fourth and 5 from the Miami 37, Curt Cignetti keeps his offense on the field, and Fernando Mendoza delivers with a major assist from Charlie Becker.
The star wideout somehow corrals a back-shoulder throw while falling down and stays inbound to keep the drive alive with a 19-yard reception.
CHARLIE BECKER.
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) January 20, 2026
WHAT A CATCH. pic.twitter.com/scWj58qlg2
Fourth quarter odds check
Courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook:
Moneyline: Indiana (-330) Miami FL (+240)
Spread: Indiana -3.5
Total: 41.5
Another Fletcher TD for Hurricanes
The fourth quarter opens with a 3-yard walk-in for Mark Fletcher Jr., who now has 109 yards on 16 carries.
With nearly a full quarter left to play, Indiana leads 17-14.
Mark Fletcher Jr. scores again and Miami trails 17-14
— ESPN Insights (@ESPNInsights) January 20, 2026
Miami is looking to become the 3rd school to win a BCS/CFP Championship after trailing by 10+ entering the 4th quarter...
2018 Alabama: trailed 20-10, won 26-23
2017 Clemson: trailed 24-14, won 35-31#CFPInsights
Miami on the move at end of third
The Hurricanes have responded to the Hoosiers’ second touchdown with their best drive of the game.
Starting on its 19-yard line, Miami has moved to 78 yards in nine plays with a critical third-down conversion on a 24-yard pass to CJ Daniels.
Special teams magic propels Hoosiers
Struggling on offense in the third quarter, Indiana turned to its defense and special teams for points
That's the first blocked punt returned for a touchdown in CFP history. https://t.co/PCEXoi5uIt
— Indiana Football (@IndianaFootball) January 20, 2026
After pinning Miami on its 7-yard line and forcing a three and out, Mikail Kamara blocked a punt by Dylan Joyce. Isaiah Jones recovered the ball for a touchdown and a 17-7 lead with 5 minutes left in the third quarter.
— Nicole Auerbach (@NicoleAuerbach) January 20, 2026
Miami defense shining
The Hurricanes are teeming with NFL talent on the pass rush, and Fernando Mendoza is learning the hard way.
After stopping Miami deep in their territory, Indiana got the ball on its 43-yard line but went three and out despite the great field position. The possession started with an 8-yard sack by Akheem Mesidor, who forms a potent combo with edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr.
MENDOZA GOES DOWN AGAIN 🚨
— College Football Playoff (@CFBPlayoff) January 20, 2026
📺ESPN pic.twitter.com/IfaAGOgIxy
Miami has three sacks in the third quarter while holding the Hoosiers to only 11 yards.
Mendoza has been sacked a season-high five times.
We gotta fight!!! pic.twitter.com/bfbxO7FCjw
— Michael Irvin (@michaelirvin88) January 20, 2026
Tough drop for the Hoosiers
Trying to answer Miami’s first score, the Hoosiers had a short four-play driver stopped when the usually sure-handed Elijah Sarratt (who calls himself “Waffle House” for being always open) bobbled a pass on third down.
Indiana elected to punt from the Miami 49 yard line on fourth and 3, giving Carson Beck and Miami another shot.
Updated odds as game tightens
The Miami touchdown had a significant impact on the odds. Courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook, just before the midpoint of the third quarter, it’s:
Moneyline: Indiana (-360), Miami FL (+260)
Spread: Indiana -6.5
Total: 37.5
Hurricanes strike quickly for TD
Mark Fletcher Jr. puts Miami on the board with the longest run of his career, a 57-yard touchdown on second and 5.
It’s a new ballgame as Indiana’s lead has been cut to 10-7 with 11:06 left in the third quarter.
FREIGHT. TRAIN. FLETCHER.
— Miami Hurricanes Football (@CanesFootball) January 20, 2026
📺: @espn #GoCanes | #NationalChampionship pic.twitter.com/qdb8Pk24wF
Another costly penalty for Miami
A 15-yard facemask on Armono Blount extends an Indiana drive after the Hurricanes had stuffed the Hoosiers on the first three plays of the second half, including a sack of Mendoza by Akheem Mesidor.
The Hurricanes have committed four penalties for 41 yards, but they still were able to force the Hoosiers to punt a few plays later.
Regroup and refocus #GoCanes | #NationalChampionship pic.twitter.com/HhTfkZxxWi
— Miami Hurricanes Football (@CanesFootball) January 20, 2026
Second half under way
Indiana starts with the ball.
Miami now has cornerback Xavier Lucas, who missed the first half because of a targeting penalty in the Fiesta Bowl.
Halftime odds
According to DraftKings Sportsbook:
Moneyline: Indiana (-1300), Miami FL (+700)
Spread: Indiana -14.5
Total: 31.5
No question that the oddsmakers anticipate the defensive struggle to continue — and to Indiana’s advantage.
Cignetti calls out the officials!
Never one to mince words, Indiana coach Curt Cignetti didn’t hold back when asked by ESPN’s Holly Rowe about the hits on Fernando Mendoza.
“Well, there were three personal fouls on the quarterback not called in one drive,” Cignetti said. “That need to be called because they’re obvious personal fouls. I’m all for letting them play, but when you cross the line, you’ve got to call it. They were black and white calls.”
At halftime, his Hoosiers are in front 10-0.
Here were Mario Cristobal’s thoughts at halftime:
"We gotta play Hurricane football."
— ESPN College Football (@ESPNCFB) January 20, 2026
Miami head coach Mario Cristobal to @MollyAMcGrath after the first half against Indiana. pic.twitter.com/cRRGDOu9yF
Doink! Miami misses FG attempt before halftime
The Hurricanes’ best drive yet (nine plays, 43 yards) comes up empty.
Carson Davis pushed a field goal attempt from 50 yards, nailing the right upright and leaving Indiana ahead 10-0 with 33 seconds to play.
The only saving grace for Miami was that Indiana seemed to get confused on clock management and lost 15 seconds while trying to get in position for a field goal. The half ended on a Mendoza Hail Mary that fell incomplete.
DOINK ❌
— College Football Playoff (@CFBPlayoff) January 20, 2026
📺ESPN pic.twitter.com/wUS78FciUr
Critical fourth down conversion for Miami
In danger of punting after three plays for the fourth consecutive drive, Miami coach Mario Cristobal gambles on going for it on fourth and 1 from the Hurricanes’ 34.
Mark Fletcher Jr. had carried the previous three plays for 9 yards and been stopped for no gain on third down. But Miami went again to Fletcher, who picked up the first down by a foot (and drew a patented side eye from Indiana coach Curt Cignetti, who thought his defense held).
The play seemed to energize Miami as Carson Beck connected for a 25-yard pass to Malachi Toney, the Hurricanes’ biggest play of the game.
Griding drive ends in Indiana touchdown
It’s all Hoosiers now as fullback Riley Nowakowski bowls in for a 1-yard touchdown that caps a 14-play, 85-yard march that chewed up 6 minutes, 28 seconds.
With six minutes left in the second quarter, the pressure has shifted to Miami and Carson Beck to start finding some answers on offense, where the Hurricanes have gone three and out three conseuctive times.
This angle of Riley Nowakowski's touchdown 🔥 pic.twitter.com/Leqp5lS5rw
— ESPN College Football (@ESPNCFB) January 20, 2026
What a burst for Kaelon Black
The Indiana running back extends a drive by blasting up the middle for a gain of 20 yards on third and 8 to the Miami 23.
On the next play, Mendoza completed his first pass to wide receiver Charlie Becker, who scampered down the sidelines while breaking two tackles to the end zone. After initially ruled a touchdown, the call was overturned when replays showed Becker stepping out at the 5-yard line.
After review, Indiana's TD is called back after Charlie Becker stepped out of bounds pic.twitter.com/gjJKElYGKd
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) January 20, 2026
Miami had Indiana stopped on third and 13, but star edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. was ruled offside for the Hurricanes.
Updated odds after the first quarter
According to DraftKings Sportsbook,
Moneyline: Indiana (-330), Miami FL (+240)
Spread: Indiana -7.5
Total: 36.5 (the over/under started at 47.5, so a 3-point first quarter had a significant impact)
Indiana 3-0 after first quarter
In an expectedly physical game, the story so far has been defense.
The Hoosiers finally got to Miami quarterback Carson Beck on a sack by star linebacker Aiden Fisher, forcing the second consecutive three and out for Miami.
But the Hurricanes hung tough, dropping Roman Hemby for a loss of 6 yards on first down and forcing Indiana into fourth and as the first quarter ended.
Miami's offense had just five 3-and-outs in its last nine games and have had two already in its first three series.
— Kirk Bohls (@kbohls) January 20, 2026
Missed targeting call?
Miami, which already is missing a starting cornerback Xavier Lucas for the first half because of a targeting penalty in the Fiesta Bowl, might have been fortunate to avoid another personal foul.
Replays showed that Fernanda Mendoza (after handing off) took a hit to the head from Jakobe Thomas. who led with the crown of his helmet and left the Indiana quarterback with a bloody lip.
This is a targeting foul. The QB clearly no longer has the ball, which is obvious to the defender, making him defenseless. There is forcible contact to the head/neck area and it's with the crown of the helmet. It violates both targeting rules. https://t.co/Hko2t228pC
— Terry McAulay (@tjmcaulay) January 20, 2026
Indiana coach Curt Cignetti made his (angry) feelings known to the officials.
Bad miss by the officials: https://t.co/vBl40sBCi4
— Nicole Auerbach (@NicoleAuerbach) January 20, 2026
Indiana leads 3-0 with 2:42 left in Q1
In 12 plays, Mendoza marches Indiana down to the Miami 16 before nearly throwing an interception on a pass to Charlie Becker in the end zone (Romanas Frederique Jr. had the coverage).
Nicolas Radicic booted a 34-yard field goal to put Indiana ahead 3-0 with 2:42 left in the first quarter.
Indiana strikes first and takes a 3-0 lead
— ESPN Insights (@ESPNInsights) January 20, 2026
Teams to score first are 9-1 in this year's College Football Playoff. The only loss was by Oklahoma in the first CFP game of the season#CFPInsights
Hoosiers on move into Hurricanes territory
After Indiana starting the drive with a holding penalty, Mendoza connects with Cooper on a 25-yard strike on first and 20. Then after a false start, the Heisman winner picks up another first down on a 10-yard pass to Elijah Sarratt to the Miami side of the field.
Mendoza, the level-headed Miami native who seemed amped up just before kickoff, seems to be in rhythm.
Feeling like a good night for the under?
Miami quickly goes three and out as Carson Beck misfires on third and 5 despite having plenty of time. The game remains scoreless as the midpoint of the first quarter approaches.
(The over/under was 47.5, by the way.)
Indiana punt after a first down, 0-0 with 10:00 left in Q1
Fernando Mendoza and Amari Cooper Jr. hooked up on an early first down for 11 yards, but the Hoosiers stalled out quickly deep in their own territory.
So far, these vaunted defenses have shown up.
A Miami ‘home game?’ Uhhh, not really!
The national championship might be in Miami Gardens, Florida, but Hoosiers fans have turned Hard Rock Stadium into a sea of red (as they have in traveling en masse each game of the CFP).
I think the crowd is at least 60-40 Indiana tonight.
— Nicole Auerbach (@NicoleAuerbach) January 20, 2026
Miami punts after brief drive, 0-0,12:16 left in Q1
The Hurricanes managed a first down with fabulous freshman wide receiver Malachi Toney, but the Hoosiers then held.
Indiana stopped Toney on third down, forcing the Hurricanes to punt.
Hesiman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoaz wll lead the Hoosiers on the field for the first time.
Indiana wins the coin toss
The Hoosiers elect to defer until the second half, so the Hurricanes will receive.
Brief one-question interviews with both coaches followed the coin toss.
Curt Cignetti: We’ve got to be balanced on offense. They’re good and are going to make their share of plays. We just have to make one more.”
Mario Cristobal said Miami has to “make it a one-moment mentality for every single play.”
PREDICTIONS!
NBC Sports college football insider Nicole Auerbach has Indiana winning 37-17 (which sounds about right to this fellow Big Ten graduate).
Curiously, the ESPN pregame desk tilted toward Miami with Desmond Howard, Nick Saban and Marcus Freeman all taking the Hurricanes. (As the Notre Dame coach, Freeman said he wanted to avolid giving Miami motivation for the Fighting Irish’s game next November. Saban told Freeman he never made those predictions when he worked as a studio set analyst during his legendary coaching career, but Freeman joked that he was forced to make a pick.)
Pat McAfee was the only ESPN analyst to pick Indiana.
My official prediction: Indiana 37, Miami 17.
— Nicole Auerbach (@NicoleAuerbach) January 20, 2026
UPDATE: Somehow, the 10th-seeded team has become the trendy pick to win over the undefeated top seed in the country?
The ACCN picks are in 🍿@EddieRoyalWR Miami@EricMacLain Miami
— ACC Network (@accnetwork) January 20, 2026
Jimbo Fisher: Miami@TomLuginbill Indiana@MarkRicht: Miami pic.twitter.com/4CqUdAn14e
Mendoza vs. Beck in the quarterback matchup
The next stop for Indiana’s Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza, who grew up less than a mile from Miami’s campus, is the NFL draft. With Oakland Raiders braintrust Mark Davis and Tom Brady at the game, the national chamipnoship could be the steppingstone to being the top pick.
Per the PFF ratings, Mendoza is listed as “a solid NFL starter” at a 7.94 rating based on these categories: decision making 8/10, poise 8/10, touch 8/10, velocity 8/10, accuracy 8/10, distance 7/10, pocket management 8.5/10, progressions 8/10, mechanics 9/10, mobility 6/10 (his weakness).
For Miami quarterback Carson Beck, this is his third shot at a national championship after winning two at Georgia as a backup. His career with the Bulldogs ended with a torn UCL in his right throwing elbow in the 2024 SEC Championship. After sugergy, he transferred to Miami and has shored up his pro quarterback prospects. PFF ranked Beck fourth among the quarterbacks in the CFP semifinal QBs but put a high value on his accuracy.
Players to watch for Miami
The Hurricanes might have the fiercest defense in the nation with the twin terror of edge rushers Akheem Mesidor (seven sacks, 12 tackles for loss) and Rueben Bain Jr. (4.5 sacks, 7.5 tackles for loss) stuffing opponents at the line. Miami also has a star secondary with defensive backs Jakobe Thomas (70 tackles, five INTs, TD) and Bryce Fitzgerald (15 tackles, six INTs), and a solid linebacker corps with Mohamed Toure (73 tackles, three for loss, two sacks) and Wesley Bissainthe (63 tackles, 2.5 for loss, INT).
In his sixth year, quarterback Carson Beck (3,072 yards, 25 touchdowns, 74.7% completions) coolly has become the veteran master of late game-winning drives in his comeback season from major elbow surgery, relying heavily on wide receiver Malachi Toney (84 catches, 970 yards, seven TDs).
Running backs Mark Fletcher Jr. (685 rushing yards, 10 touchdowns), CharMar Brown (469 rushing yards, seven TDs) and Girard Pringle Jr. (378 rushing yards, four TDs) have benefited from a line led by first-team All-American Francis Mauigoa.
Destiny awaits. #GoCanes | #NationalChampionship pic.twitter.com/qVHNwhorCK
— Miami Hurricanes Football (@CanesFootball) January 20, 2026
Players to watch for Indiana
Heisman Trophy quarterback Fernando Mendoza directs college football’s most efficient offense, completing 73% of his passes for 3,349 yards, 41 touchdowns and only six interceptions. He has a trio of star receivers in Elijah Sarratt (62 catches, 802 yards, 15 TDs), Omar Cooper Jr. (64 catches, 866 yards, three TDs) and Charlie Becker (30 catches, 614 yards, four TDs).
The Hoosiers also have relied on a three-pronged backfield attack of Roman Hemby (1060 rushing yards, seven TDs), Kaelon Black (961 rushing yards, 10 TDs) and Khobie Martin ( 505 rushing yards, six TDs) that runs behind a physical offensive line.
The process stays the same. pic.twitter.com/Go9wjXdoNm
— Indiana Football (@IndianaFootball) January 19, 2026
The defense is led by linebackers Rolijah Hardy (98 tackles, eight sacks), Aiden Fisher (93 tackles, 9.5 for a loss) and Isaiah Jones (15.5 tackles for loss, seven sacks). The secondary is anchored by cornerback D’Angelo Ponds (56 tackles, INT) and safety Louis Moore (six INTs, 81 tackles).
Fisher and Ponds are among the 13 players who followed coach Curt Cignetti from James Madison to Indiana.
Brief coaching profile: Miami’s Mario Cristobal
The Miami native and former Hurricanes player was on the famous champinoship teams of coaches Jimmy Johnson and Dennis Erickson.
After becoming the first Cuban-American head coach in FBS history, Cristobal has gone 96-78 in 13 seasons as a head coach at Miami, Oregon and Florida International.
He is 34-18 through four seasons at Miami, which was awarded its first CFP berth on Dec. 7, 2025 — four years to the day that Cristobal was hired.
Mario Cristobal was raised on two things: hard work and the Miami Hurricanes 🙌 @aadelsonESPN sits down with the head coach of @CanesFootball to talk about his journey back home. pic.twitter.com/0iZweRoZoP
— ACC Network (@accnetwork) January 19, 2026
Brief coaching profile: Indiana’s Curt Cignetti
Close your eyes while listening to the Hoosiers’ head coach, and you might imagine hearing the echoes of Bob Knight, the cantankerous legend who led Indiana’s basketball team to three national championships.
Cignetti, 62, might not have Knight’s credentials yet, but his famous proclamation (“I win. Google Me”) does hold up. In the four seasons before his arrival, Indiana had 15 wins combined — the same total as this unbeaten season so far.
It continues a pattern of success for Cignetti, who has a 145-37 record in 15 seasons as a head coach without a losing record — Indiana (26-2), James Madison (five seasons, 52-9, first top 25 ranking), Elon (two seasons, 14-9, made FCS playoffs both seasons) and Indiana University of Pennsylvania (53-17, three Div. II playoff appearances).
50 years ago, the Indiana basketball team went undefeated and won a national title.
— Nicole Auerbach (@NicoleAuerbach) January 12, 2026
Back in November, I talked to Curt Cignetti about it, with his football team chasing perfection.
"Can we equal the achievement of the (1976) basketball team? I guess we're going to find out. " pic.twitter.com/ICsVRzx8Tf
Indiana celebs can show out, too!
We already have seen a lot of Indiana alum Mark Cuban on the sidelines during pregame (perhaps too much so for Miami fans, who vociferously booed the “Shark Tank” host).
The former Dallas Mavericks owner is far from the only celebrity who went to college in Bloomington, though. Another famous Indiana alums: producer Ryan Murphy, Journalist/former Today Show host Jane Pauley, author Suzanne Collins.
Hoosier alum Mark Cuban talks to @jess_sims about how hyped he is for the natty 🤩 pic.twitter.com/vchpq8MayD
— College GameDay (@CollegeGameDay) January 19, 2026
The Miami connections
With Ed Reed, Michael Irvin and Ray Lewis among the many famous alums who have been attending the Hurricanes’ playoff run, you might be able to assemble a Hall of Fame squad from just those wearing street clothes on the sideline of “The U” tonight:
Ed Reed and Xavier Testrepo on the field pregame for the #NationalChampionship pic.twitter.com/N29tDGRJvb
— Miami Hurricanes On SI (@CanesCentralSI) January 19, 2026
But the Miami Hurricanes also are a favorite for many of the beautiful people in South Florida, whose celebrities also figure to turn out in force for the big game. Among the famous who attended school in Coral Gables: Actor and professional wrestler Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, musician Gloria Estefan, and late actor Ray Liotta.
DJ Khaled & Fat Joe are in the building for the #CFBPlayoff National Championship 🎤 pic.twitter.com/eBBfoM6Rqz
— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) January 19, 2026
As our intrepid insider reports from on the spot in South Florida, it can make for quite the scene on the Hurricanes sideline:
I am currently standing five feet from Tim Tebow, who is chatting with Marco Rubio, and to my other side it’s Michael Irvin chatting with Stephen A. Smith.
— Nicole Auerbach (@NicoleAuerbach) January 19, 2026
A lot going on at the moment on the Miami sideline.
Miami injury updates
Head coach Mario Cristobal said he expects to have defensive linemen Ahkeem Mesidor and Ahmad Moten after both were injured (and returned) during the Hurricanes’ victory in the Peach Bowl. Cornerback OJ Frederique should be ready for the final after being injured in the Cotton Bowl and missing the semifinal game.
Regular starting defensive back Xavier Lucas will be on the bench for the first half because of a targeting penalty in the Fiesta Bowl win over Ole Miss.
Indiana injury updates
Coach Curt Cignetti said defensive lineman Stephen Daley will remain sidelined because of a freak right leg injury suffered in a postgame celebration of the victory in the Big Ten Championship game over Ohio State. But Indiana has dominated in two consecutive wins without Daley, and every key player should be available.
“We came out really good, and everybody that played in the last game will play in this game,” Cignetti said.
One hour away!
A friendly reminder that the big game starts at 7:30 p.m. at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.
ESPN has coverage.
(Pssst: Based off the clock that has been running on the pregame broadcast, it seems as if the kickoff actually will be closer to 7:45 p.m.)
🚨1 HOUR UNTIL THE CFP NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP 🚨#CFBPlayoff #NationalChampionship pic.twitter.com/w91Cap2pqy
— College Football Playoff (@CFBPlayoff) January 19, 2026
Miami’s path to the title
The Hurricanes, who have won seven consecutive, are the lowest-seeded at-large team in the field (controversially chosen over Notre Dame after failing to reach the ACC championship).
First-round: Beat seventh-seeded Texas A&M 10-3
Quarterfinals: Beat second-seeded and defending national champion Ohio State 24-14
Semifinals: Beat sixth-seeded Mississippi 31-27 in the Peach Bowl
Indiana’s path to the title
The Hoosiers have made history as the only team with a first-round bye to have won through two years of the expanded 12-team playoff.
Quarterfinals: Beat ninth-seeded Alabama 38-3 in the Rose Bowl
Semifinals: Beat fifth-seeded Oregon 56-22 in the Fiesta Bowl
Hoosiers vs. Hurricanes head-to-head all time
This is the first meeting in nearly 60 years for a series that’s 1-1.
The Hurricanes won 14-7 at home on Oct. 22, 1966. In a game also played at Coral Gables, Florida, Indiana won the first matchup 28-14 on Oct. 24, 1964.
Here come the walk-in shots!
From “Mr. Heisman” Fernando Mendoza to the Hurricanes’ collection of NFL talent, the photos and video are rolling in on social media.
Time to compare game faces and judge who seems loose or tight an hour before kickoff!
Hoosiers at Hard Rock. pic.twitter.com/VMn9cv9Z94
— Indiana Football (@IndianaFootball) January 19, 2026
Mr.Heisman himself 🫡#CFBPlayoff x #NeverDaunted pic.twitter.com/25FkaCyCe5
— College Football Playoff (@CFBPlayoff) January 19, 2026
Time to work. #GoCanes | #NationalChampionship pic.twitter.com/Xl3BWV9Jlo
— Miami Hurricanes Football (@CanesFootball) January 19, 2026
Made in Miami. Built for this moment. #GoCanes | #NationalChampionship pic.twitter.com/tsVHNUdZz3
— Miami Hurricanes Football (@CanesFootball) January 19, 2026
Pregame thoughts of Mario Cristobal
In the interest of equal time, here’s what the Hurricanes coach told Molly McGrath, who asked how stepping onto the field felt different tonight vs. all the previous times for the Hurricanes on their home turf.
“Right now we’re in process mode, so we’re in that 1-0 mindset,” Cristobal said. “When you’re battle-tested like our team has been, they look forward to each and every opportunity. They’re fired up and ready to go. Every single day, every waking minute around our team, we feel more and more trust and confidence around each other.”
A home game at a neutral site?
It’s tough to avoid giving the crowd edge to the Miami Hurricanes, who literally are playing at home — and have embraced such a golden opportunity to outnumber the opposition:
PACK HARD ROCK STADIUM AND DEFEND OUR HOME TURF‼️
— Miami Hurricanes Football (@CanesFootball) January 9, 2026
MAKE IT AN ASYLUM‼️
Important ticket info: https://t.co/YmyV5Rj5SM pic.twitter.com/VJWTkn3lD4
DEFEND HOME TURF! 🙌
— Miami Hurricanes Football (@CanesFootball) January 12, 2026
Canes Family, wear ORANGE for the NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP! 🟠#GoCanes | @CFBPlayoff pic.twitter.com/oWy5eNDQAw
But lest anyone has forgotten, the Hoosier State has been traveling quite well in its past two games. The Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, and the Peach Bowl in Atlanta, Georgia, were awash in Indiana red:
It's not our home stadium, but it is our home crowd.
— Indiana Hoosiers (@IUHoosiers) January 10, 2026
Hoosier Nation SHOWED OUT. pic.twitter.com/P5k06yROpt
Regardless of which team’s allegiance is more evident tonight, there’s no doubt of the impact on securing a ticket.
On the secondary market, the get-in price for tonight’s game currently is just under $4,000.
“We have the whole city behind us.”@CanesFootball WR Malachi Toney tells @NicoleAuerbach what’s it’s like playing a National Championship game at home and how he’s been able to star in the biggest moments as a freshman. #GoCanes pic.twitter.com/tKwQqLU4Px
— College Sports on SiriusXM (@SXMCollege) January 19, 2026
Miami projected starting lineup
These were the starters in the victory over Ole Miss, but there’ll be one important caveat tonight for the Hurricanes: Starting defensive back Xavier Lucas will be on the bench for the first half because of a targeting penalty in the Fiesta Bowl win.
OFFENSE (Position, number, name): WR 0 Keelan Marion; RB 4 Mark Fletcher Jr.; WR 7 CJ Daniels; WR 10 Malachi Toney; QB 11 Carson Beck; OL 52 James Brockermeyer; OL 61 Francis Mauigoa; OL 70 Markel Bell; OL 73 Anez Cooper; OL 78 Mattthew McCoy; TE 87 Alex Bauman.
DEFENSE (Position, number, name): DB 0 Keionte Scott; LB 1 Mohamed Toure; DL 3 Akheem Mesidor; DL 4 Reuben Bain Jr.; DL 5 Justin Scott; CB 6 Xavier Lucas; S 7 Zechariah Poyser; DB 8 Jakobe Thomas; DB 24 Ethan O’Connor; LB 31 Wesley Bissainthe; DL 99 Ahmad Moten.
The Hurricanes have arrived. #GoCanes | #NationalChampionship pic.twitter.com/7EuQ1SPi3Y
— Miami Hurricanes Football (@CanesFootball) January 19, 2026
Indiana projected starting lineup
This will be official closer to kickoff, but these are the names you can expect to hear on the opening series tonight:
OFFENSE (Position, number, name): RB 1 Roman Hemby; WR 13 Elijah Sarratt; QB 15 Fernando Mendoza; TE 37 Riley Nowakowski; OL 62 Drew Evans; OL 65 Carter Smith; OL 67 Kahlil Benson; OL 74 Bray Lynch; OL 75 Zen Michalski; OL 78 Pat Coogan; WR 80 Charlie Becker.
DEFENSE (Position, number, name): LB 4 Aiden Fisher; DB 5 D’Angelo Ponds; DL 6 Mikail Kamara; DB 7 Louis Moore; DB 12 Devan Boykin; LB 21 Rolijah Hardy; DB 22 Jamari Sharpe; LB 46 Isaiah Jones; DL 91 Dominique Ratcliff; DL 95 Tyrique Tucker; DL 97 Mario Landino.
Ready for the squad. pic.twitter.com/hjXqeHg52k
— Indiana Football (@IndianaFootball) January 19, 2026
Cignetti speaks!
Indiana arrived at the stadium ahead of Indiana, and it didn’t take long for Hoosiers coach Curt Cignetti to roll into his trademark cliches in a pregame interview with ESPN’s Holly Rowe.
“We had a great day yesterday,” Cignetti said. “I like where we’re at, and now we’ve got to prove it on the field.
“We’ve got to get settled in, and take it one play at a time. Eleven guys doing their job, playing our game. One play at a time. Fast and relentless. Smart, disciplined, poised. Not affected by success or failure. This is going to be a physical game. Our discipline and consistency need to be the winning edge.”
His no-nonsense mannerisms and style rarely change. You can Google him to confirm it.
Buses are on the move
A little more than two hours before kickoff, the coaches and players were shown during the pregame show being loaded onto buses for the short trip to Hard Rock Stadium, where we should be getting those iconic “walk-in” shots soon.
Hoosiers at Hard Rock. pic.twitter.com/VMn9cv9Z94
— Indiana Football (@IndianaFootball) January 19, 2026
And speaking of ...
Time to work. #GoCanes | #NationalChampionship pic.twitter.com/Xl3BWV9Jlo
— Miami Hurricanes Football (@CanesFootball) January 19, 2026
Game odds
Indiana opened as a touchdown favorite and consistently has remained there. As of two hours before kickoff, DraftKings Sportsbook had the spread at Indiana by 8.5 points.
This detailed preview from Eric Froton and the Rotoworld Bet Staff has a bevy of stats, trends and predictions.
