Two contrasting narratives collide in the 2026 College Football Playoff National Championship on Monday, January 19, 2026. No. 1 Indiana Hoosiers (15–0) — a historic undefeated Big Ten title team — face the No. 10 Miami Hurricanes (13–2) at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla. The game kicks off at 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN. With the Hoosiers laying 7.5 points and the total sitting at 47.5, what’s the smart bet in tonight’s Miami vs. Indiana national championship game?
Miami vs. Indiana Game Information
-
Date: Monday, January 19, 2026
-
Kickoff: 7:30 p.m. ET
-
Location: Hard Rock Stadium — Miami Gardens, FL
-
TV: ESPN (Chris Fowler, Kirk Herbstreit & sideline reporters)
Miami vs. Indiana Betting Odds
| Team | Spread | Total | ML |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miami | +7.5 | 47.5 | +260 |
| Indiana | -7.5 | 47.5 | -320 |
Who Is The Public Betting
| Team | % of Bets | Open | Current |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miami | 31% | +7.5 | +7.5 |
| Indiana | 69% | -7.5 | -7.5 |
Numbers update frequently — check the latest splits on our college football public betting chart before placing any bets.
Team Overviews
Indiana Hoosiers (15–0)
-
Conference: Big Ten
-
Coach: Curt Cignetti
-
AP/Coaches/CFP Rank: No. 1
-
Indiana capped a perfect season with dominant playoff wins, including a standout performance over Oregon in the CFP semifinals. The Hoosiers lead the nation in efficiency on both sides of the ball and boast a remarkable margin of victory across the season.
-
Key Players:
-
QB Fernando Mendoza — Heisman Trophy winner and offensive catalyst (41+ TDs, elite efficiency).
-
Additional dynamic playmakers on offense and a stingy defense that ranks among the best nationally.
-
Miami Hurricanes (13–2)
-
Conference: ACC
-
Coach: Mario Cristobal
-
Rank: No. 10 in AP/CFP
-
Miami rebounded from two regular-season losses thanks to a strong finish and a gritty playoff run, including a Fiesta Bowl semifinal victory over Ole Miss.
-
Key Players:
-
QB Carson Beck — Experienced leader guiding an explosive offense.
-
Miami’s defense brings athleticism and championship experience, aiming to disrupt Indiana’s rhythm.
-
Key Notes & Storylines
-
Historic Run: Indiana has flown under the radar but enters as a legitimate title contender with undefeated authority from Week 1 through the CFP.
-
Miami’s Path: The Hurricanes overcame midseason setbacks and a controversial playoff selection to reach the championship.
-
Offense vs. Defense Matchup: Indiana’s high-powered offense faces Miami’s opportunistic defense — a matchup of contrasting styles.
-
Coaching Spotlight: Cignetti’s rapid rise from program underdog to national title leader vs. Cristobal’s established wealth of coaching experience.
-
Weather/Neutral Site: While technically a quasi-home environment for Miami, Hard Rock Stadium’s large neutral crowd limits a pure home-field advantage.
Indiana vs. Miami Prediction
Final Score Projection: Indiana 38, Miami 24
Analysis: Indiana’s blend of elite quarterback play, offensive efficiency, and defensive discipline should wear down Miami over four quarters. Miami has the talent to keep it close early, but Indiana’s depth and consistent execution position them to win and cover the spread. The Hoosiers cut down explosive plays from Miami and manage the clock well, pulling away in the late second half. Expect Indiana to secure its first national title and cap a perfect season with a signature statement win.
Spread Pick: Indiana -7.5
Total Pick: Over 47.5
Responsible Gaming
For help, visit our Responsible Gaming page or the National Council on Problem Gambling.
Affiliate Disclosure
We may receive affiliate commissions if you sign up through links on our site. Read our Affiliate Disclosure.