Indiana's national title sparks statewide jubilation after unexpected football win

Indiana defeated Miami to win a national championship in football, and large, jubilant crowds filled Assembly Hall and Kirkwood Avenue in Bloomington.

Indiana captured a national championship football victory over Miami at Hard Rock Stadium, and the result set off widespread celebrations in Bloomington. Fans gathered for a sold-out watch party at Assembly Hall and filled nearby bars and streets. The emotional reaction reflected the football program's rapid turnaround after years of losing records. The scene combined chants, rooftop gatherings and fireworks as people marked the title. What happened: - Indiana beat Miami in the national championship game, with a late interception ending Miami's last bid. - Head coach Curt Cignetti's on-field countdown was shown to fans in Bloomington and drew an enthusiastic response. - Assembly Hall offered a 14,000-seat watch party that sold out quickly and was joined by packed crowds on Kirkwood Avenue and local bars. - Key fourth-quarter plays, including a touchdown from Charlie Becker after a critical first down, helped secure the win. - Celebrations in the city included chants, rooftop crowds and fireworks, with students, alumni and residents taking part. Summary: The title produced broad celebration in Bloomington and highlighted the rapid rise of Indiana's football program after seasons of struggle. The gatherings brought together students, alumni and local residents in large, vocal crowds. Undetermined at this time.