As the countdown to the College Football Playoff national championship ticks down, there’s a fun subplot that’s caught fans’ attention - and it involves none other than Caitlin Clark.
Yes, that Caitlin Clark - the Indiana Fever superstar and one of the most electrifying names in basketball. Turns out, she’s got a rooting interest in Monday night’s title game, and it all started with a wide receiver, a dog, and a TikTok.
Indiana Hoosiers receiver Elijah Sarratt recently revealed that he named his dog “CC” - a nod to Clark herself. The gesture didn’t go unnoticed. Clark jumped into the comments of Sarratt’s TikTok with a simple but supportive message: “Hope he scores 3tds Monday night.”
That’s the kind of crossover energy college football fans didn’t know they needed, but it’s here - and it’s awesome.
Now, let’s get to the big stage.
When and where is the College Football Playoff national championship game?
The national championship kicks off at 7:30 p.m. ET on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, under the lights of Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. It’s the final chapter of a long, grueling season - and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
How to watch the national championship
ESPN will carry the main broadcast, with Chris Fowler on play-by-play, Kirk Herbstreit providing analysis, and sideline reports from Holly Rowe and Molly McGrath. It’s the network’s top crew for the biggest game of the year.
If you’re looking for something a little different, ESPN2 will feature the “Field Pass” broadcast led by Pat McAfee - expect plenty of energy and unfiltered reactions. Meanwhile, ESPNU will offer the “Skycast,” and ESPN News will have the “Command Center” feed, giving fans multiple ways to experience the game from different angles.
So whether you’re tuning in for the Xs and Os, the big plays, or just to see if Elijah Sarratt makes Caitlin Clark’s wish come true, Monday night has something for everyone. The lights are bright, the stakes are massive, and the stage is set.