College Football Playoff Semifinals Conclude with National Championship Preview
Sydney, 9 January 2026 – The 2025-26 College Football Playoff semifinals wrapped up on Thursday and Friday, setting the stage for the national championship game between Indiana and Ole Miss on 19 January at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.
Semifinal Results and Highlights
The Fiesta Bowl saw Ole Miss defeat Miami 39-34 in a thrilling overtime matchup, while the Peach Bowl featured Indiana’s dominant 38-3 victory over Oregon. These results advanced the Rebels and the Hoosiers to the title game, where they will compete for the 2026 College Football Playoff National Championship.
Ole Miss, led by their strong defence and offensive plays, edged out Miami in a game that went into overtime. Indiana showcased their offensive prowess, holding Oregon to just three points in a one-sided affair. The national championship promises to be a clash of contrasting styles, with Indiana’s high-powered attack against Ole Miss’s resilient defence.
Key Facts and Standings
| Team | Record | Semifinal Result |
|---|---|---|
| Indiana | 13-0 | Defeated Oregon 38-3 (Peach Bowl) |
| Ole Miss | 11-1 | Defeated Miami 39-34 (Fiesta Bowl) |
| Oregon | 11-1 | Eliminated |
| Miami | 10-2 | Eliminated |
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the College Football Playoff National Championship?
The championship game is scheduled for 19 January 2026, at 7:30 pm EST, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, and will be broadcast on ESPN.
Who are the favourites heading into the national championship?
Indiana enters as the top seed with a perfect 13-0 record, but Ole Miss has shown resilience in close games. Analysts are split, with Indiana’s offence seen as a potential edge.
How has the playoff format changed for this season?
The 2025-26 season features a 12-team playoff, with the top four receiving byes to the quarterfinals. Teams are not reseeded after rounds.