Indiana Stuns Oregon 56-22 in Historic CFP Semifinal Win

A freshman wide receiver stopped to sign autographs in the tunnel while an Oregon player picked red and white confetti from his helmet, trying to make sense of what just happened.

Indiana University just achieved something that seemed impossible eight months ago. The Hoosiers crushed Oregon 56-22 at the Peach Bowl in Atlanta, keeping their perfect season alive and punching their ticket to the national championship game.

Over 75,000 fans packed Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and the sea of red made it clear who owned the building. Oregon quarterback Dante Moore admitted he thought the red in the stands was just the stadium seats. He was wrong.

The game turned electric on the very first play. Indiana cornerback D'Angelo Ponds intercepted Moore's pass and returned it for a touchdown. The crowd erupted, and Oregon never recovered.

By halftime, Indiana led 35-7. The Hoosiers defense forced three turnovers in the first half alone, turning each mistake into points. Ponds finished as the game's defensive MVP, and his smile said everything about how special this moment felt.

Quarterback Fernando Mendoza put on a clinic, completing 17 of 20 passes for five touchdowns without a single turnover. Combined with his performance against Alabama in the previous round, Mendoza became the first player in college football playoff history to throw three or more touchdowns while completing at least 85% of passes in multiple playoff games.

Coach Curt Cignetti has transformed Indiana football in just one season. The program with the country's largest living alumni base finally has something extraordinary to celebrate together.

The Ripple Effect

This victory means more than a spot in the championship game. Indiana has never experienced anything like this in its football history. Fans who watched decades of losing seasons now get to witness their team compete for a national title.

The Hoosiers have outscored their last two playoff opponents 94-25, proving they belong among college football's elite. Students, alumni, and fans across the state are experiencing a moment they'll remember forever.

Young players like freshman Davion Chandler are creating memories that will inspire future generations of Indiana athletes. The boy waiting for an autograph in the tunnel represents thousands of kids who now believe anything is possible.

Indiana faces their championship opponent in two weeks, carrying the hopes of an entire state that's waited over a century for this moment. The confetti has been swept away, but the magic of this season continues.