Miami RB Mark Fletcher Jr. throws punch at Indiana player after Hoosiers' national championship game win
The aftermath of Monday night's College Football Playoff National Championship was marred by an on-field altercation, as Miami running back Mark Fletcher threw a punch at Indiana defensive lineman Tyrique Tucker following the Hoosiers' 27-21 victory.
The incident, captured on video and aired on ESPN's SportsCenter, occurred amid the postgame confusion on the field at Hard Rock Stadium. The specific provocation remains unclear. Fletcher had previously shown sportsmanship, congratulating fellow Miami native and Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza after the game.
Fletcher was a standout performer in the loss, rushing for 112 yards and two touchdowns on 17 carries, including a critical 57-yard scoring run. The junior had announced his intention to return to Miami for his senior season in 2026.
The unsportsmanlike incident casts a shadow over an otherwise dramatic contest and will likely draw scrutiny from conference and NCAA officials.
