Miami and Indiana Face Off in College National Championship Game
The 2025-2026 college football season has reached its peak, with the upcoming game between the Number 10 Miami Hurricanes and Number 1 Indiana Hoosiers. Both teams have prepared all season for this matchup. Miami is seeking another national championship, while Indiana goes for their very first one, creating major anticipation for the outcome.
Indiana has stood out all season with an undefeated record. The Hoosiers are 15-0 and have powered their way through the College Football Playoffs (CFP). In the Peach Bowl semifinal, Indiana defeated Oregon 56-22. The win was led by a dominant performance from quarterback Fernando Mendoza.
Meanwhile, Miami has had a surprising season with a 13-2 record. They won the Fiesta Bowl against Ole Miss in a close 31-27 game. Carson Beck scored a last-minute touchdown with 18 seconds left on the clock, securing their win and a spot in the championship.
This game is special and important to both teams for different reasons. Indiana would make history by winning their first national championship and completing an undefeated season. For Miami, it is a chance to win their sixth national title and bring the championship back home, their first since 2001.
“I think it should be a very good game with two quality opponents. As a die-hard Canes fan, I’m excited to see them play for a national championship and hopefully win another one,” said Brandon Giostra, a lifelong fan of the Miami Hurricanes.
The two teams have entirely different playing styles, making this matchup especially intriguing. Indiana is known for having a powerful team, while making smart plays rather than flashy ones. Fernando Mendoza has been a standout player all season and won the Heisman Trophy, becoming the first in the Hoosier program history to do so.
“I think the championship will be a great game because two really good teams are playing. I think Indiana is going to win because they have the Heisman winner, Fernando Mendoza, and they have a better team overall,” said sophomore Dwayne Davis.
In contrast, Miami relies on strength, using a physical, action-first style to overpower opponents. One standout player is Malachi Toney, who has earned respect at just 18 years old, having graduated early instead of finishing high school.
Both coaches have emphasized how much this game means to them and their players. Indiana’s head coach, Curt Cignetti, has transformed the team quickly and seeks his first national title. Miami’s head coach, Mario Cristobal, who won two titles as a player, now looks to guide his team to another title as their coach.
The kickoff is set for Jan. 19 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, the Canes’ home stadium. Fans across the country will be watching to see if Indiana completes its undefeated season or if Miami pulls off the upset. A win would give the Hurricanes their sixth national championship.
