Indiana University Hoosiers Football Team Honored for 2026 National Championship and Undefeated Season

Alright, let's talk about something that's probably not going to impact your grocery bill or your commute, but it's still pretty cool. This resolution is all about giving a big shout-out to the Indiana University Hoosiers football team. They just wrapped up an absolutely stellar 2026 season, clinching the College Football Playoff National Championship. We're talking a perfect 16-0 run here, which is a modern-era record. They beat the University of Miami Hurricanes 27-21 in the championship game on January 19, 2026, and along the way, they took down four top-10 ranked opponents. They also snagged the Big Ten Conference Championship, the Rose Bowl, and the Peach Bowl. For the first time ever, they even hit number 1 in the Associated Press poll. This isn't legislation that changes laws or creates new programs; it's a formal pat on the back from the legislative body.

Celebrating Gridiron Glory

This resolution isn't just about the team as a whole; it shines a spotlight on some key players and the coaching staff. Head Coach Curt Cignetti gets a nod for leading the team to this national title in only his second year. Quarterback Fernando Mendoza is highlighted as the game's Offensive MVP, a consensus All-American, and the 2025 Heisman Trophy winner—pretty impressive. On the defensive side, Mikail Kamara was named the Defensive MVP of the championship game. And up front, offensive lineman Carter Smith was recognized as the top offensive lineman in the Big Ten and also a consensus All-American. It's a way for the legislative body to officially acknowledge their hard work and success, making sure these individual achievements get their due.

The Whole Hoosier Family

The resolution also makes sure to spread the love beyond just the players and coaches. It points out that the team's offense led the nation in scoring and the defense was incredibly stingy, only allowing 56 points across four postseason games. But it also recognizes that this kind of success isn't just about what happens on the field. The Indiana University Marching Hundred, the cheerleaders, students, faculty, alumni, and fans are all given credit for their support. Think of it like a company celebrating a major milestone—it's not just the CEO and the product developers, but everyone from customer service to the folks in the mailroom who contributed. Finally, the resolution asks for official copies to be prepared and sent to the President of Indiana University, Pamela Whitten; the athletic director, Scott Dolson; and Coach Curt Cignetti. It's a nice gesture, essentially a formal, framed certificate of congratulations.