by In a close game against the Miami Hurricanes, 27-21, Indiana secured its first-ever championship title. They also finished the season with a historic 16-0 record, becoming the first major college team in CFP history to do so.
At the start of the game, the Hoosiers had momentum. They were strong on offense and defense, allowing Miami only 3 of 3 consecutive drives, and only 18 yards and 1 first down by the start of the second quarter.
Indiana was already taking the lead against Miami with a 34-yard field goal attempt made by Nico Radiac. The Hoosiers did get a touchdown early on, but it was flagged as being out of bounds. A touchdown was made, though, at the 3rd and goal by Riley Nowakowski, giving Indiana that 10-point lead against Miami.
By halftime, Indiana had outgained Miami with 169 total yards and 11 first downs, with Miami only holding 69 total yards and three first downs.
In the third quarter, Miami’s plays changed, making them stronger offensively against Indiana. Running back Mark Fletcher Jr. scored a 57-yard rushing touchdown, allowing the team to catch up to Indiana.
Determined not let Miami catch up, Indiana’s defensive lineman, Mikali Kamara, blocked a punt, letting his teammate, Isaiah Jones, recover the ball for a touchdown.
Indiana quarterback and Heisman winner, Fernando Mendoza, had a great play during the fourth quarter. During the last nine minutes of the game, Mendoza ran the ball before weaving through players at the first and goal and diving in towards the end zone.
At the one-minute mark, Miami could’ve had a chance to tie the score with having the ball; however, defensive back Jamari Sharpe took advantage of an underthrown ball by Miami quarterback Carson Beck, making it the game-winning catch for Indiana.
Going from being known as the team who has the most losses in college football to winning a national title, Indiana’s record breaking season will be a story told throughout college football.
