Indiana football reached its historic peak Monday night as the Hoosiers defeated the Miami Hurricanes 27–21 to win the 2026 College Football Playoff National Championship. Quarterback Fernando Mendoza guided Indiana to the first 16–0 finish since the Yale Bulldogs in 1894 and delivered the defining moment with a hard-nosed 12-yard touchdown run on fourth-and-five in the fourth quarter. After the final whistle, Mendoza shared an emotional embrace with his parents on the field, a scene that captured the human side of Indiana’s first national title and capped a season defined by resilience and composure.

Under the bright lights of the championship stage, the most lasting image of the night came after the final whistle. As confetti fell and the celebration swirled around him, Mendoza made his way to the stands to embrace his parents, sharing a quiet, emotional moment that cut through the chaos. It was a scene that reflected years of sacrifice and support, and one that humanized a championship defined by pressure and expectation.

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Mendoza’s performance earned him National Championship MVP honors, recognition that matched both the moment and the season. His decisive touchdown run came with Indiana clinging to a narrow lead, and his composure ensured the Hoosiers never trailed despite repeated pressure from the Hurricanes.

For the Hoosiers’ quarterback, the moment carried added meaning as he stood at the podium after the game. The recognition reflected more than a perfect season, while the embrace he shared with his parents moments earlier revealed the personal foundation behind Indiana’s championship run.

Mendoza emerged as both the emotional core and the competitive driving force behind the Hoosiers' first national championship celebration. His MVP performance, paired with a powerful moment shared with his family, reflected Indiana’s journey of excellence under pressure and a historic achievement rooted in unwavering support.