INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 09: The College Football Playoff National Championship trophy is displayed on the field before the College Football Playoff National Championship game between the Georgia Bulldogs and the TCU Horned Frogs at SoFi Stadium on January 09, 2023 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
The 2025 college football season opened in Ireland. It now ends in South Florida with Indiana facing Miami for the national championship. Indiana enters as the clear No. 1 team. Miami seeks its first national title since 2001.
Indiana’s Rise Under Curt Cignetti
Indiana has transformed under Curt Cignetti. The Hoosiers were once the losingest program in FBS history. Cignetti changed everything in only two seasons. Indiana now stands 15‑0 and one win from a historic title. The program has never won a national championship.
Miami’s Return to National Prominence
Miami once dominated college football for two decades. The Hurricanes have not won a title since 2001. Mario Cristobal returned to rebuild his alma mater. Four years later, Miami is back in the championship spotlight. The Hurricanes enter the game with a 13‑2 record.
Key Team Metrics Entering the Title Game
Indiana averages 42.6 points per game. The Hoosiers allow only 11.1 points per game. Miami averages 31.6 points per game. The Hurricanes allow only 14 points per game. Both defenses rank among the nation’s best.
Three Battles That Could Decide the Game
This matchup features two elite defensive units. Indiana leads the nation in tackles for loss. Miami counters with a massive offensive line. The Hurricanes’ linemen outweigh Indiana’s front by 53 pounds per player. This trench battle may determine the game’s tone.
Indiana’s Dominant Playoff Run
Indiana crushed Alabama and Oregon in the playoff. The Hoosiers won those games by an average of 34.5 points. Their offense overwhelmed both opponents. Their defense controlled every quarter. If that trend continues, Indiana could secure its first title.
Miami’s Path to an Upset
Miami’s best chance comes from its pass rush. Hard Rock Stadium offers a familiar environment. The Hurricanes went 7‑1 at home this season. Their defense thrives on crowd energy and pressure. A strong start could create real chaos for Indiana.
Indiana’s One Close Call This Season
Indiana struggled against Ohio State in the Big Ten title game. The Buckeyes slowed Indiana’s rushing attack. Indiana produced only two explosive runs on 31 attempts. Miami owns a top‑seven rushing defense. This matchup could again limit Indiana’s ground game.
Miami’s Defensive Stars Could Shift the Game
Miami defensive ends Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor are game‑changers. Both can disrupt plays instantly. Indiana’s offensive line is solid but not elite. The Hoosiers rank No. 25 in pressure rate allowed. If Miami creates early pressure, the game could swing fast.
Final Thoughts on the Championship Clash
Indiana seeks its first national title. Miami aims to reclaim its historic identity. Both teams bring elite defenses and powerful storylines. This matchup promises intensity, physicality, and high stakes. The 2025 season ends with a showdown worthy of the moment.
