The stage is set for the College Football Playoff National Championship, where the Miami Hurricanes and the Indiana Hoosiers will clash for the sport’s top honor. This marquee matchup is headlined by two quarterbacks who took very different paths to this moment, embodying the modern era of college football. For Miami, Carson Beck, the former Georgia Bulldog, has been the catalyst for their title run. His decision to transfer to Miami has paid off spectacularly, with his Carson Beck stats in the CFP showcasing a quarterback in complete command of the offense, leading the Hurricanes’ high-powered attack. On the other sideline, Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, whose Miami roots run deep, has been a model of efficiency. The question of how old is Fernando Mendoza is answered by his status as one of the older, more experienced players on the Hoosiers’ roster, providing steady leadership. In the CFP semifinals, Fernando Mendoza stats were remarkable, with the QB completing all but five of his passes, demonstrating pinpoint accuracy under pressure.
The coaching narratives are equally compelling. Miami’s defense, orchestrated by coordinator Corey Hetherman, faces a unique challenge against an Indiana offense led by coordinator Mike Shanahan. While the name sparks curiosity, this Mike Shanahan is not directly related to the famed NFL coaching family, but he has crafted a potent scheme that has carried Indiana to the brink of a title. For Hetherman, this game is a full-circle moment, pitting him against a program and a friend on the biggest stage. On the other side of the ball, Indiana’s defensive line is anchored by a ‘freak of nature’ in Mario Landino, whose rapid rise has been a key storyline for the Hoosiers’ physical front.
The atmosphere will be electric, fueled by passionate fanbases. In Coral Gables, local businesses like pizza shops are bracing for a championship crowd, while superfans show off impressive collections of Hurricanes memorabilia. The spirit of the university is embodied by its beloved mascot, Sebastian the Ibis. The Miami mascot, representing the storm-resilient bird, is a central figure in UM traditions and will be a visible symbol of Hurricane pride throughout the game. The broader sports world is also watching, as Indiana basketball superstar Caitlin Clark has thrown her full support behind the football team, putting aside old collegiate rivalries with a classy message of encouragement for the Hoosiers.
Adding to the pre-game intrigue is the status of broadcasting legend Lee Corso. After retiring from his regular role on College GameDay, there was speculation about whether Lee Corso would make an appearance at the national championship. The iconic analyst has made his decision, opting not to attend this year’s event, though fans will forever associate his spirited picks with the biggest games of the season. His absence marks the end of an era for the broadcast, but the focus remains squarely on the field where a new champion will be crowned. This game is more than just a title decider; it’s a testament to the impact of the transfer portal, with Beck and Mendoza headlining the sport’s biggest game and signifying a broader trend that is reshaping college football rosters.