Indiana’s Atlanta College Football Playoff takeover shows why more playoff games need to be on campus

Indiana University secured a decisive 56-22 victory over Oregon in the 2026 Peach Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, advancing to the national championship game. The announced attendance was 75,604, predominantly made up of Indiana fans, creating a significant home-field advantage despite being a neutral site. The Hoosiers' fans filled the stadium with enthusiastic support, contributing to a high-energy atmosphere that Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza credited with impacting the game. Mendoza noted the absence of pre-snap penalties that had plagued their previous encounter with Oregon, thanks to the Hoosier fans’ presence.

Indiana’s triumph marks a significant moment for the program, traditionally not associated with national championship contention. Their fans' enthusiasm was evident throughout Atlanta, from local venues to the stadium itself, underscoring the passion and excitement surrounding the team’s unexpected success.

The game reignited discussions on hosting playoff games at college campuses rather than neutral sites. The unique and intense atmosphere provided by Indiana fans in Atlanta highlighted the potential