Indiana University claims first college football national championship: View from inside Assembly Hall

Indiana University’s football program reached a huge milestone Monday night, securing its first national championship with a 27–21 victory over the Miami Hurricanes in the College Football Playoff National Championship. The win capped a perfect 16–0 season and drew thousands of fans to a watch party at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall, where the tension and release of the game unfolded in real time.

A city tuned in

Fans began lining up outside Assembly Hall well before the 7:30 p.m. kickoff, despite subfreezing conditions. Temperatures hovered between 10F° and 14F° and the wind chill made it feel colder. But the turnout reflected the magnitude of the moment for a program long removed from the national spotlight.

Inside, the crowd was a sea of Indiana’s red and white. Championship merchandise sold quickly as the final minutes of the game approached, and towels distributed for the event were already being claimed as souvenirs. The crowd reflected a mix of community members—students, alumni, and longtime Bloomington residents—drawn together by a shared investment in the outcome.

Orderly celebration

Event security and Assembly Hall staff maintained a visible but measured presence throughout the night. Crowd control was firm, though staff members reacted alongside fans during pivotal plays during the game. Organizers confirmed that contingency plans were in place if the crowd attempted to rush the floor, including protection of the basketball goals.

The watch party remained largely orderly from start to finish.

Riding the game

The game itself kept the crowd on edge, especially during the second half as Miami narrowed the gap and mounted sustained pressure. Reactions inside the hall mirrored the momentum on the field—quiet tension during Miami’s advances, followed by explosive cheers when Indiana answered.

Among the crowd was the youngest fan of the night: Ruby wore a little red jumper and was sucking on a pacifier. Remarkably well behaved throughout the roller-coaster of emotions, Ruby embodied the spirit of a new generation of Indiana supporters.

When the final whistle confirmed Indiana’s victory, the left gradually rather than erupting chaotically out of the building. Many fans lingered briefly, taking in the moment before dispersing into the city. Those looking to continue celebrating headed toward Kirkwood Avenue in downtown Bloomington.

Photos: Assembly Hall Jan. 19, 2026

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