After an extensive season, the 2026 College Football Playoff National Championship has finally arrived.
This championship game features a showdown between two teams that have taken distinctly different routes to the final. Indiana, historically the sport’s all-time losingest team at the Division I level, aims to achieve a stunning turnaround with an unforgettable conclusion. Following an 11-2 record in his first season, coach Curt Cignetti has led the Hoosiers to an impressive 15-0 standing in his second season, entering the title match as the No. 1 seed. They’ve dominated the college football landscape, boasting an average victory margin of 34.5 points in their initial playoff games.
Meanwhile, Miami seeks to reclaim its place among the elite programs in college football. Known as “The U,” the Hurricanes secured five national championships during the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s, showcasing future NFL legends like Ray Lewis and Reggie Wayne. compared to to Indiana’s prowess, Hurricanes alum Mario Cristobal has steered his alma mater back to the championship game with a series of clutch plays. Miami was one of the last teams chosen for the playoff bracket and has either scored or thwarted a game-altering touchdown in the final minute of each of its three playoff matches.
though the Hoosiers are 7.5-point favorites on DraftKings, the Hurricanes will benefit from playing in familiar surroundings at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, where the championship will be held.
With ticket prices starting over $3,000, it’s evident that both fan bases have a strong desire to witness this title showdown. Here are some of the best sights and sounds from South Florida as we approach the 2026 championship game.
