Miami opens as sizeable underdog to Indiana in CFP National Championship game
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It’s crazy what can transpire over 5 months’ time. Back in August, nobody would have been shocked to hear that Miami had found a way to reach the College Football Playoff National Championship game. Conversely, those same people — the bulk of them, anyway — believed Indiana was a 1-year, feel-good story.
Here in January 2026, though, it’s the Hoosiers who no one is surprised to see playing for a national championship, and the Hurricanes who are on the Cinderella run.
Following the conclusion of the CFP Semifinal contests, it’s clear that Las Vegas gives one team a big edge in the title game. Indiana opened as a 7.5-point favorite over Miami on BetMGM. The total for this game has been pegged at 48.5 points.
Curt Cignetti, a stoic force of nature, has cracked more beers than smiles on the Hoosiers’ march toward glory. Mario Cristobal took a page out of Cignetti’s playbook when celebrating Miami’s Fiesta Bowl triumph, knowing the importance of the game on tap. His mission — to restore his alma mater, which once reigned over the sport with unparalleled bravado, to its former heights — can be accomplished with 1 more victory.
Will Indiana cap off the greatest turnaround in college football history? Or will the “U” finally reclaim its throne atop the college football landscape? Only time will tell. Kickoff between the Hoosiers and Hurricanes is set for 7:30 p.m. E.T. on Jan. 19 (ESPN).
