This game was over from the first play.
Indiana dominated from the jump and never stepped off the gas pedal in a 56-22 win over Oregon in the College Football Playoff semifinal on Friday night to set up a date with Miami in the national title game.
Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza threw for 177 yards — on 17-of-20 passing attempts — and five touchdowns in a nearly flawless effort for the Hoosiers. Running back Kaelon Black added two scores on the ground.
Oregon quarterback Dante Moore, viewed as the projected No. 2 pick in the NFL draft behind Mendoza, struggled to get things going. On the first play after the opening kickoff, the signal-caller threw a pick-six, setting the tone for the Ducks’ ugly night. He then fumbled twice in what was an brutal first half.
Indiana is now one win away from completing a magical season.
