Indiana just completed one of the most improbable seasons in college football history, finishing 16–0 and winning its first national championship. On this episode of The Walk-On Redshirts, we break down how the Hoosiers beat Miami, the plays that decided the title game, and why this championship represents a turning point for the sport.

We dive into Fernando Mendoza’s defining performance, Curt Cignetti’s program-altering impact, what Miami did right and what ultimately cost them, and what Indiana’s title means in the new College Football Playoff era.

This was not a fluke. This was history.

The College Football Playoff National Championship is set: Miami Hurricanes vs Indiana Hoosiers.

Indiana has reached this point by doing everything right—protecting the football, converting third downs, and playing efficient, mistake-free football. Miami thrives on pressure, speed, and forcing opponents into chaos. So the question is simple: how do you beat a team that doesn’t make mistakes?

In this episode, we break down the full national championship matchup, including:

• What changed from Indiana vs Oregon this time around

• Miami’s ability to pressure Fernando Mendoza and create turnovers

• Why third down efficiency may decide the title

• The importance of starting fast for Miami

• How Indiana controls games without needing explosive plays

• Historical context for large national championship spreads

• Final picks and keys to the game

One team needs to create mistakes.
The other just needs to avoid them.

The College Football Playoff is down to four, and the trenches are deciding everything.

We recap Round 2 of the CFP, breaking down Indiana’s dominance over Alabama, Miami overwhelming Ohio State at the line of scrimmage, Ole Miss surviving a thriller against Georgia, and Oregon shutting out Texas Tech. From missed field goals to quarterback composure, the margins are shrinking fast.

Then it’s full CFP Semifinal previews:
• Indiana vs Oregon in the Peach Bowl
• Miami vs Ole Miss in the Fiesta Bowl

We dive into trench matchups, quarterback play, key stats, and game scripts that will decide who moves on to the national title.

No fluff. No gimmicks. Just playoff football being decided up front.

Follow The Walk-On Redshirts for weekly college football breakdowns all postseason long.