The Indiana Hoosiers captured their first-ever College Football Playoff National Championship on January 19, 2026, defeating the Miami Hurricanes 27-21 in a tense, hard-fought battle at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. This victory completed a historic undefeated 16-0 season for Indiana—the first perfect FBS season since 1894 Yale—and marked one of the most improbable turnarounds in college football history under head coach Curt Cignetti.
Cignetti, in his second season at Indiana, transformed a program long mired in mediocrity and record losses into national champions. The Hoosiers, led by Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza, overcame a physical Miami defense that delivered multiple heavy hits on Mendoza early, including controversial late shots that drew halftime criticism from Cignetti. In a sideline interview, he blasted officials for missing “three personal fouls on the quarterback… obvious personal fouls” on one drive, emphasizing player safety while allowing physical play but insisting on enforcement when lines are crossed.
Postgame, Cignetti’s tone shifted to pride and reflection. He praised his team’s discipline and composure amid Miami’s aggressive style, crediting their focus for navigating the game’s intensity. “It took a lot of guts,” he said, acknowledging Miami’s effort while highlighting Indiana’s resilience, including key fourth-down decisions and a late interception by Jamari Sharpe to seal the win. Mendoza’s diving touchdown run in the fourth quarter proved pivotal in maintaining control.
The game showcased Indiana’s complete performance: strong defense limiting Miami’s explosive plays, special teams contributions like a blocked punt return for a score, and Mendoza’s efficient passing and rushing. Despite frustrations over inconsistent officiating—particularly on hits to Mendoza that some analysts called targeting—the championship stood as a testament to integrity, hard work, and upholding standards.
Cignetti addressed broader concerns about the sport’s direction, stressing that player safety and consistent rule enforcement must prevail on college football’s biggest stage. “We stayed disciplined, focused, and professional,” he noted, proud that his players embodied the values the game claims to champion, even as frustrations lingered from perceived lapses.
This title not only etched Indiana into history but reinforced Cignetti’s belief: with commitment and the right culture, anything is possible—even turning the ultimate underdog into champions.
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