Indiana and Miami are gearing up to face each other for the national championship next week, with both teams bringing impressive stats and a rich history to the title game.
On January 9, 2026, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, along with linebacker Aiden Fisher and wide receiver Elijah Sarratt, celebrated their victory by hoisting the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl Trophy after defeating the Oregon Ducks in the College Football Playoff Semifinal.
Mendoza had initially considered attending Yale, where he was impressed by the school”s historic achievements, including the Heisman Trophy wins in the 1930s. Despite Yale”s storied past, he chose to lead the Hoosiers, who now aim for a similar undefeated season by claiming the FCS national championship.
In terms of turnovers, both teams have shown resilience, with Indiana losing only one fumble this season, while Miami has lost three. This places Indiana among the elite with the fewest fumbles lost.
Statistically, Indiana has outscored its opponents by 237 points in the first half of games this season and 236 points in the second half, leading the nation in second-half scoring. Meanwhile, Miami leads all teams with 47 quarterback sacks, while Indiana is tied for second nationally with 45.
Time of possession also favors both teams, as Miami averages 33 minutes and 42 seconds per game, closely followed by Indiana at 33 minutes and 17 seconds.
No team has ever completed a season with an 8-0 record against AP-ranked opponents, but Miami is in a position to change that. The Hurricanes have defeated seven ranked teams this season, showcasing their strength against formidable opponents.
Historically, Miami has been a powerhouse in college football, having appeared in the top 5 of the AP polls 213 times compared to Indiana”s 18. Miami”s current streak of 33 consecutive poll appearances ranks them among the top teams in the nation.
As the championship approaches, Mendoza is poised to add to his legacy, having already thrown 41 touchdown passes this season, placing him just behind the all-time leaders at Indiana.
On the Miami side, receiver Malachi Toney is on the verge of breaking the single-season record for receptions, needing just one more catch to reach 100.
The outcome of the Indiana versus Miami game will not only determine the national champion but also likely crown the winner as the top team in the final AP Top 25 rankings.
