Crain & Cone Miami vs. Indiana PREDICTION w/ On3’s J.D. Pickell | National Championship
Jan 14, 2026
J.D. PicKell, an On3 analyst known as 'the Pickler,' joins the discussion to preview the highly anticipated national championship between Indiana and Miami. He emphasizes Miami's need to utilize their skill players in one-on-one matchups and discusses the importance of winning third downs. The hosts delve into tactical insights, such as Miami's pass rush and the significance of first-down yards. As they make their predictions, J.D. confidently backs Indiana, while Blain insists Miami can pull an upset with their physical style.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Miami Skill Players Decide The Game
- Miami's skill players must consistently win one-on-one matchups to keep the game close.
- If Miami's receivers and after-the-catch play click, the fourth quarter becomes very uncomfortable for Indiana fans.
Control Turnovers, Penalties, And Possession
- Avoid losing the turnover, penalty, and time-of-possession battles versus Indiana.
- Win those three areas and you force Indiana off schedule and reduce Mendoza's impact.
First-Down Yards Reveal Who's In Control
- Yards per play on first down reveals who stays on schedule and sets up manageable third downs.
- First-down success shows whether the run game or RPOs are creating space for Mendoza and the perimeter game.