The Herd with Colin Cowherd

3 & Out - Reaction to Fernando Mendoza & Indiana DESTROYING Oregon in CFP Semifinal

Jan 10, 2026
In a lively discussion, Jackson Groff, a producer and on-air contributor who attended the thrilling matchup, shares his firsthand reactions to Indiana's stunning win over Oregon in the semifinals. He and John Middlekauff examine Indiana's impressive season, comparing their growth to past college football powerhouses. They delve into the standout performance of quarterback Fernando Mendoza, discussing his NFL potential and how Indiana's coaching staff has been pivotal in their success. The duo also tackles the future of Miami's roster and the implications for Oregon's coaching.
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INSIGHT

Underdog Program Operating At Elite Level

  • Indiana's two-game obliteration of Alabama and Oregon felt like peak dominance despite fewer blue-chip recruits.
  • John Middlecoff argues system, coaching, and development can match programs loaded with five-stars.
INSIGHT

Fundamentals Over Five-Star Talent

  • John Middlecoff highlights Indiana's assignment-sound, fundamentally perfect play as the engine behind their success.
  • He credits coaching structure and rapid player development over raw recruiting rankings.
INSIGHT

Coaching Continuity Scales Program Success

  • Cignetti's staff-building and coordinator continuity fuel Indiana's rise and player development.
  • Middlecoff suggests those coordinators now command major salaries reflecting their impact.
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