Atlanta, Jan 10, 2026: No. 1-ranked Indiana Hoosiers delivered a stunning, statement performance in the College Football Playoff Peach Bowl, dismantling the No. 5 Oregon Ducks 56-22 to book their first-ever berth in a national championship game. With the victory, Indiana improved to a perfect 15-0 and will now face the No. 10 Miami Hurricanes on January 19 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.
The tone was set immediately. On the very first play from scrimmage, Indiana cornerback D’Angelo Ponds intercepted Oregon quarterback Dante Moore and returned it for a touchdown, igniting the Hoosiers and deflating the Ducks. From that moment on, Indiana never looked back, controlling the tempo and direction of the game on both sides of the ball.
Mendoza Delivers a Heisman-Worthy Masterclass
Quarterback Fernando Mendoza, this season’s Heisman Trophy winner, produced a near-flawless performance. He completed 17 of 20 passes for 177 yards and threw five touchdown passes, carving through Oregon’s defense with precision and poise. His command of the offense kept Hoosiers in complete control throughout the contest.
Running back Kaelon Black added two rushing touchdowns, giving the Hoosiers a balanced and relentless attack. Indiana’s offense moved efficiently, while the defense applied constant pressure, forcing mistakes and keeping Oregon off balance from start to finish.
A Historic Moment for Indiana Football
The decisive Peach Bowl win marks a watershed moment in Indiana football history. The program, long considered an underdog on the national stage, has now reached the national championship game for the first time ever.
This triumph caps a dream season that has already included a Big Ten Championship and a dominant 38-3 victory over Alabama in the Rose Bowl quarterfinal. What began as a promising campaign has transformed into one of the most remarkable seasons in college football history.
Oregon Falters Under Pressure
Oregon entered the semifinal with momentum, but the Ducks struggled to find rhythm against Indiana’s aggressive defense. Three first-half turnovers proved costly, and the absence of key running backs further disrupted their offensive flow.
Though Oregon managed a late score, the outcome had long been decided. Indiana’s 34-point margin reflected the gulf between the two teams on the night, bringing the Ducks’ impressive 2025 run to a sudden halt.
Eyes on the Championship
With this victory, Hoosiers now stands one win away from completing a perfect season and capturing its first national title. Miami advanced to the final after a 31-27 Fiesta Bowl win over Mississippi, setting up a marquee championship showdown.
Hoosiers enters the title game as one of the most formidable teams in recent memory, powered by elite quarterback play, a suffocating defense, and unwavering confidence built over an undefeated campaign.
Key Stats from the Peach Bowl
- Final Score: Indiana 56, Oregon 22
- Indiana Record: 15-0 (undefeated)
- Fernando Mendoza: 5 passing touchdowns
- Kaelon Black: 2 rushing touchdowns
Summary
Indiana’s historic Peach Bowl victory showcased everything that has defined its remarkable season—dominant defense, clinical offense, and star performances led by Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza. The Hoosiers not only overwhelmed a top-ranked Oregon side but also secured the program’s first trip to a national championship game.
Now, with one final hurdle remaining, Indiana prepares for a defining clash against Miami, with the chance to complete a perfect season and etch its name forever into college football history.