Indiana Wins National Championship, Holds Off Miami 27–21

Game Recap

Indiana finished the job Monday night.

The Hoosiers beat Miami 27–21 in the 2026 College Football National Championship, closing out a perfect 16–0 season and earning the first national title in program history.

Indiana controlled the game early, taking a 3–0 lead after the first quarter and going into halftime up 10–0. The Hoosiers didn’t score quickly, but they were steady, stringing together long drives and keeping Miami’s offense on the sideline.

The game turned midway through the third quarter when Indiana blocked a Miami punt and recovered it with 5:04 remaining, a play that swung momentum. By the end of the quarter, Indiana had stretched the lead to 17–7.

Miami made it interesting in the fourth, cutting into the deficit and forcing Indiana to answer. The Hoosiers did just that, scoring 10 points in the final quarter and sealing the game with a late interception to close out the win. Miami finished with more total yards (342–317), but Indiana was better in the key moments.

Player of the Game

Fernando Mendoza did what Indiana needed him to do.

The Hoosiers quarterback finished 16 of 27 for 186 yards, didn’t turn the ball over, and added a rushing touchdown. Mendoza didn’t throw a touchdown pass, but he stayed in control, converted key third downs, and managed the clock late as Indiana protected its lead.

Honorable Mention: Charlie Becker
Becker’s stat line was modest — four catches for 65 yards — but his impact was not. Two of his receptions came in critical situations and required difficult, contested catches to keep drives alive. Those plays helped Indiana control possession when Miami was trying to swing momentum.

Turnovers, Penalties, and Time of Possession

Miami made the mistakes Indiana didn’t.

The Hurricanes had two turnovers, starting with the blocked punt in the third quarter. Later, with Miami driving late in the game, Indiana came away with a game-sealing interception. Indiana finished the night turnover-free.

Miami was flagged seven times for 60 yards, while Indiana had five penalties for 38 yards. The difference showed up in field position and stalled drives.

Indiana also controlled the clock, holding the ball for 36:24 compared to 23:36 for Miami. That gap limited Miami’s opportunities and allowed Indiana to close out the game on its terms.

Final Thoughts

Indiana didn’t win this game with flash. It won it with patience, ball security, and control.

The Hoosiers dictated tempo, avoided mistakes, and capitalized when Miami gave them openings. Miami showed fight in the fourth quarter, but the early deficit and turnovers were too much to overcome.

For Indiana, this one won’t be about style points. It’ll be remembered because it ended with a national championship — the first in program history.