The stage is set for a College Football Playoff National Championship that nobody saw coming: Indiana vs. Miami.
This isn’t just a feel-good story for local fans-it’s a matchup that has the entire college football world leaning in, curious to see how this unexpected showdown unfolds. And for both head coaches, Curt Cignetti and Mario Cristobal, this game is more than a shot at a title-it’s a defining moment.
Let’s start with Indiana. Under Cignetti, the Hoosiers have carved out a reputation for disciplined, mistake-free football.
They don’t beat themselves, and that’s a big reason why they’re here. Cignetti’s system is built on efficiency and execution, and his team has bought in completely.
It’s not flashy, but it’s effective-and right now, it’s championship-caliber.
On the other sideline, Cristobal’s Miami squad comes in with a bit more volatility. There’s talent, no doubt, but there are also questions-especially at the quarterback position.
Carson Beck has been the guy, and he’s earned that trust with his play. He’s every bit as capable as Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, and when he’s on, Miami can hang with anyone in the country.
But here’s where things get tricky for the Hurricanes: depth. Indiana has a built-in insurance policy with Alberto Mendoza, Fernando’s brother, waiting in the wings. If something were to happen to Fernando, Cignetti wouldn’t be scrambling-he’d be turning to a quarterback who knows the system and can keep the train moving.
Miami doesn’t have that same luxury. If Beck were to go down, Cristobal’s options behind him are far less proven.
That’s a tough spot to be in heading into the biggest game of the season. And while Beck is expected to start-and play well-his looming departure for the NFL Draft only adds to the urgency.
This is his last ride in college football, and Miami needs him to be at his best.
Looking ahead, the quarterback situation becomes even more pressing for Cristobal. With Beck moving on, the Hurricanes are staring down a 2026 season with no clear successor in place.
So far, the transfer portal hasn’t produced a ready-made replacement. Names like Sam Leavitt and Brandon Sorsby have been floated as possibilities, but nothing is locked in.
Meanwhile, Indiana is in a much more comfortable spot. Fernando Mendoza isn’t going anywhere, and that continuity gives the Hoosiers a major edge-not just in this game, but heading into next season. It’s the kind of stability that programs dream of, especially at the most important position on the field.
For now, though, all eyes are on the title game. Cristobal has one more shot with Beck, and he’s going to ride that as far as it’ll take him. Cignetti, on the other hand, has the luxury of depth and a team that’s been playing clean, confident football all year.
It’s a fascinating contrast in styles, preparation, and roster construction. And when the ball is kicked off, we’ll find out which approach wins out-and who walks away with college football’s biggest prize.