Mendoza, Hoosiers cap perfect season, win first national title

ESPN • January 20, 2026 • general

Key Points:

Indiana completed a historic 16-0 season by defeating No. 10 Miami 27-21 at Hard Rock Stadium, securing the school's first national title and marking one of the greatest turnarounds in college football history.
Quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza led the Hoosiers with a crucial fourth-down touchdown run and a 12-play, 75-yard drive late in the game, becoming the first player since 2020 to win both the Heisman and national championship in the same season.
Indiana's defense made key plays, including a blocked punt returned for a touchdown—the first in College Football Playoff history—and an interception in the final minute to seal the victory.
Despite Miami's talent advantage