College Football Check-in

The college football national championship consists of the best two teams going head-to-head after a long and competitive season. No.1 Indiana vs No.10 Miami will face off at Hard Rock Stadium on January 19th. Indiana stormed through the playoffs with an astonishing record of 15-0, powered by Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza. Miami also had a good season, led by quarterback Carson Beck and their amazing defense. This marks Miami’s first championship appearance since 2002. The evening is set to be a thrilling and unpredictable championship game.

As for local talent, Virginia Tech had an underwhelming season, going 3-7 and losing to one of their rivals, UVA, in their final game, 7-27.  VT just hired former Penn State coach James Franklin, and the hire has helped the program with their recruiting. Several 4 and 5-star players are committing to play for the former Big 10 coach. The University of Virginia had a successful season, with a 10-2 record, leading the ACC. Lastly, Maryland (UMD) started with an impressive 4-0 record to start the year before going 1-7 in the Big Ten, recently losing to MSU. However, Maryland may be looking forward to a great season next year with a strong recruiting class, led by recent pick-up, the number 1 player in the nation, Zion Elee of St. Frances Academy.

The best players across college football this season have been Ohio State wide receiver Jermiah Smith, Ohio State safety Caleb Downs, Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, and Notre Dame running back Jermiah Love–three players you’re likely to see in the NFL in the next few years. That being said, Fernando Mendoza was the clear frontrunner to win the Heisman Trophy. Fernando Mendoza had an amazing season, acquiring a 71% CMP rate, throwing 33 touchdowns, and throwing for 3,000 yards.

The 2026 National Championship kicks off on Monday, January 19th, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. You can tune in on ESPN+.