Miami Gardens, Florida, January 12, 2026
The top-ranked Indiana Hoosiers will face the No. 10 Miami Hurricanes in the College Football Playoff National Championship. Indiana, making its inaugural title game appearance, boasts an undefeated season. Miami seeks its first championship since 2001. The game, scheduled for January 19, will take place in Miami Gardens, Florida, and features standout performances from both teams’ quarterbacks. This rematch carries historical significance, having met twice before in the 1960s.
Jacksonville, FL – Indiana Hoosiers Set to Face Miami Hurricanes in Upcoming CFP National Championship
The No. 1 Indiana Hoosiers are preparing to take on the No. 10 Miami Hurricanes in the 2025 College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship on January 19, 2026, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. This historic matchup marks Indiana’s first appearance in a national title game, while Miami is looking to capture its first championship since 2001.
Indiana’s Path to the Championship
Indiana earned its place in the national championship after an impressive 56-22 victory over No. 5 Oregon in the Peach Bowl semifinal. Quarterback Fernando Mendoza showcased his skill with five touchdown passes on 17 of 20 attempts. The Hoosiers’ defense and special teams were crucial, taking advantage of three first-half turnovers and a blocked punt to build an early lead. Running back Kaelon Black added to the scoring with two rushing touchdowns, marking a historic 15-0 season for Indiana.
Miami’s Journey to the Title Game
The Miami Hurricanes made their way to the championship game by narrowly defeating Mississippi with a score of 31-27 in the Fiesta Bowl semifinal. Quarterback Carson Beck threw for 268 yards, complemented by two touchdown passes and a rushing touchdown. Running back Mark Fletcher contributed significantly with 133 rushing yards and a touchdown, while wide receiver Keelan Marion was a key target, catching seven passes for 114 yards and a touchdown. Miami’s defense maintained pressure on Mississippi’s high-powered offense, limiting scoring opportunities.
Key Matchup Details
This championship game bears personal significance for Indiana’s quarterback, Fernando Mendoza, who hails from Miami and attended Christopher Columbus High School. His return to familiar territory adds an exciting narrative to the matchup as he seeks to culminate a standout season that includes winning the Heisman Trophy.
Both teams have displayed remarkable performances throughout the season. Indiana’s offense is particularly noteworthy, averaging 461 yards per game, including 242.7 passing yards and 218.3 rushing yards. Their defense is no less impressive, allowing only 260.9 yards per game. Conversely, Miami’s offense averages 408.3 yards per game, with 254.6 passing yards and 153.7 rushing yards, while their defense allows 292.6 yards per game.
Historical Context
This matchup will mark the third encounter between Indiana and Miami, having faced each other twice in the 1960s. Each team has recorded one win in those previous matchups, making this game not only a rematch but also a significant milestone for both programs as they compete for their first national championship.
Looking Ahead
As the championship game approaches, fans and analysts are eager to see how these two talented teams will stack up against one another. With both squads exhibiting dynamic offenses and resilient defenses, the contest promises to deliver a thrilling experience. The outcome will not only crown a national champion but also mark a defining moment in the histories of both Indiana and Miami football.
FAQ
When is the 2025 CFP National Championship game?
The game is scheduled for January 19, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. EST.
Where will the championship game be played?
The game will take place at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.
Which teams are competing in the championship game?
The No. 1 Indiana Hoosiers will face the No. 10 Miami Hurricanes.
What is the significance of this matchup?
This is Indiana’s first appearance in a national title game, while Miami aims to secure its first championship since 2001.
Who is Fernando Mendoza?
Fernando Mendoza is Indiana’s quarterback, a Miami native, and the 2025 Heisman Trophy winner.
What is the historical record between Indiana and Miami?
Indiana and Miami have met twice before, each team winning one game in the 1960s.
Key Features of the 2025 CFP National Championship Game
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Teams Competing | No. 1 Indiana Hoosiers vs. No. 10 Miami Hurricanes |
| Game Date and Time | January 19, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. EST |
| Location | Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida |
| Indiana’s Record | 15-0, first appearance in a national title game |
| Miami’s Record | 13-2, aiming for first championship since 2001 |
| Notable Player | Fernando Mendoza, Indiana’s quarterback and 2025 Heisman Trophy winner |
| Historical Matchups | Two previous meetings in the 1960s, each team with one win |
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