A Team With a Dream

Miami kicked off the year on a high note with a home victory against Notre Dame, setting its sights on finishing the season at Hard Rock Stadium for the national championship. It’s been quite a journey—after some tense moments, Miami pulled off three remarkable upsets to reach the title game.

Now, they have an opportunity to wrap things up with a national championship right at home.

But they’ll face a formidable challenge from Indiana State. The Sycamores have enjoyed an impressive season under coach Curt Cininetti, making the College Football Playoff last year and earning the No. 1 seed this time after defeating Ohio State in the Big Ten Championship. Following a decisive win over Alabama in the Rose Bowl, Indiana made its way to the championship game with a commanding performance against Oregon, winning 56-22.

As a result, Fernando Mendoza is on the verge of clinching the Heisman Trophy and might even be eyeing the top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

First things first, though—let’s figure out who will take home the championship.

Running back Mark Fletcher Jr. has stood out throughout the College Football Playoff. After racking up 172 yards in Miami’s win over Texas A&M and another 90 against Ohio State, he added 133 yards against Ole Miss. While he hasn’t found the end zone on the ground yet, aside from a touchdown reception against the Buckeyes, he’s definitely been reliable for the Hurricanes.

But Miami has more tricks up its sleeve, particularly with speedy receiver Malachi Toney, who’s caught two touchdown passes in the last three games. Quarterback Carson Beck has faced skepticism since his transfer from Georgia, yet he rose to the occasion with a game-winning scramble against Ole Miss.

The Hurricanes boast strong offensive tackles as well, with right tackle Francis Mauigoa—who could be the first offensive tackle taken in the 2026 NFL Draft—and left tackle Markelle Bell, who has performed well in the run game.

Things won’t be easy for Indiana’s defense, featuring standout players like defensive linemen Michael Kamara and Daniel Ndukwe, alongside linebackers Lolija Hardy and Isaiah Jones, plus versatile safety Devan Boykin.

Key Matchup: Fletcher and Miami’s offensive line will be squarely focused on Indiana’s formidable front. Keeping Mendoza off the field might be crucial for Miami’s chance at victory.

When Indiana Has Possession

The spotlight is on Fernando Mendoza, a Heisman Trophy winner who threw 32 touchdown passes throughout the regular season. He showcased his skills in the Big Ten Championship and delivered three touchdowns in the Rose Bowl against Alabama. Coming into the title game, he added five more touchdown passes against Oregon, showing off some serious prowess.

And, he’s not alone. He has reliable receivers like Elijah Surratt and EJ Williams, who can catch almost anything thrown their way, along with deep threat Charlie Becker. Then there’s Omar Cooper Jr., the top receiver of the team, whose incredible toe-tap touchdown was key in the dramatic comeback against Penn State. This makes for a really threatening receiving corps.

On the ground, Indiana’s duo of Roman Hemby and Kaylon Black have also been effective, forming a nearly flawless offense through the playoffs and much of the season.

However, Miami’s defense poses a significant challenge. Ruben Bayne Jr. could very well be the first pass rusher drafted in 2026, and defensive end Akheem Mesidor isn’t far behind in potential, according to draft analysts.

Perhaps the most intriguing player for Miami’s defense is slot cornerback Keontae Scott. Known primarily for his cover skills, he has also been a potent blitzer, with five sacks this season. He’s forced several crucial plays, even if he didn’t finish the game against Ole Miss.

Key Matchup: Mendoza vs. Scott. It’s not the typical one-on-one matchup, but Miami might look to let Scott pressure Mendoza and create opportunities for turnovers, which could be pivotal.

In the end, both teams carry great ambitions, yet only one can take home the championship.

What Miami has accomplished to reach this point is remarkable, and their defense could certainly give Indiana some headaches.