Miami Hurricanes quarterback Carson Beck drew attention after the National Championship loss to Indiana when he walked off the field without shaking hands with Fernando Mendoza.
Following Indiana’s 27-21 National Championship win, several Miami players remained on the field to congratulate Mendoza.
Running back Mark Fletcher Jr. was among those who sought out Mendoza in a show of sportsmanship.
As Saturday Blitz noted, Beck, however, kept his helmet on and headed straight to the locker room, skipping the traditional postgame handshake.
The moment quickly sparked reaction across social media, with fans and analysts labeling the decision disrespectful given the stage and circumstances.
NFL reporter Jon Root was among those who weighed in, calling the move out directly:
“Miami QB Carson Beck walking off the field without shaking Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza’s hand after the National Championship is classless.”
He added, “Losing is tough, but show some sportsmanship and congratulate your competitor.”
Other fans were even more blunt in their assessment of the postgame moment.
They questioned how it reflected on Beck moving forward:
“Carson Beck showed everyone who he really is after losing the national championship,” one fan wrote.
While emotions were understandably high after a last-minute interception sealed the outcome, many viewed the moment as a poor look.
“He just walked off the field. No handshake to the Indiana team or Fernando Mendoza. No class. NFL teams take note,” the fan added.
Beck’s Performance in the National Championship
On the field, Beck delivered a solid performance in the biggest game of the season.
He finished 19-of-32 for 232 yards, one touchdown, and one interception.
However, the interception sealed IU’s win as Miami attempted to mount a game-winning drive with under two minutes.
After a slow start, Beck was effective in the second half, keeping the Hurricanes in the game after multiple Indiana touchdowns.
His poise under pressure and ability to respond after early struggles were consistent with the maturity he showed throughout Miami’s College Football Playoff run.
Many doubted Beck throughout the season, but his playoff run at Miami will be remembered despite falling short.
Despite the late interception, Beck’s overall playoff performance reinforced why he is viewed as an NFL Draft prospect.
What’s Next for Carson Beck
With his college career now concluded, Beck now looks ahead to the next chapter.
He is widely considered a top prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft.
After transferring from Georgia to Miami, Beck revitalized his trajectory, leading the Hurricanes to a 13-3 record and a deep playoff run.
Carson Beck finished his college career with an impressive resume.
He posting a 37-6 record as a starter across his time at Georgia and Miami.
Beck also had over 11,000 passing yards and 87 total touchdowns over his three seasons as a starter.
NFL evaluators have taken note of his arm talent, pocket presence, and experience in high-pressure situations.
While the postgame moment has drawn criticism from fans, Beck’s full body of work remains the primary focus as he prepares for the draft process.
Carson Beck Faces Backlash for Postgame Disrespect After National Championship Loss