Sports Illustrated’s Best Photos — Fernando Mendoza, Indiana Win CFP National Championship

Fernando Mendoza capped a Heisman Trophy season with Indiana’s first football national title. | Erick W. Rasco/Sports Illustrated

Star quarterback Fernando Mendoza and Indiana pulled off one of the unlikeliest turnaround in sports history Monday night, beating Miami 27-21 to win the College Football Playoff national championship. Sports Illustrated was on site at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, to capture the thrilling comeback. Here are some of our favorite images from the CFP national championship game.

Fernando Mendoza threw 16 of 27 passes for 186 yards in Indiana’s national championship victory over Miami. | Erick W. Rasco/Sports Illustrated

Simon Bruty/Sports Illustrated

Indiana’s defense forced a key interception against Miami quarterback Carson Beck in the game’s final moments. | Erick W. Rasco/Sports Illustrated

Indiana defensive lineman Tyrique Tucker recorded one tackle in the CFP national title game. | Simon Bruty/Sports Illustrated

Coach Curt Cignetti led Indiana to an undefeated season at 16-0. | Erick W. Rasco/Sports Illustrated

Simon Bruty/Sports Illustrated

Simon Bruty/Sports Illustrated

Indiana second-string running back Kaelon Black had some great runs against Miami. | Simon Bruty/Sports Illustrated

Erick W. Rasco/Sports Illustrated

Erick W. Rasco/Sports Illustrated

Erick W. Rasco/Sports Illustrated

Simon Bruty/Sports Illustrated

Indiana wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. led both teams in receptions (5) and receiving yards (71). | Erick W. Rasco/Sports Illustrated

Indiana won its first college football national championship Monday night. | Simon Bruty/Sports Illustrated

Fernando Mendoza celebrated with his father on the field. | Simon Bruty/Sports Illustrated

Erick W. Rasco/Sports Illustrated

Erick W. Rasco/Sports Illustrated

Sports Illustrated’s commemorative issue for Indiana football is on sale now. | Erick W. Rasco/Sports Illustrated

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