Jamal Roberts opened the 2026 College Football Championship Game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, with a stirring performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” setting the tone for a historic night in college football. The matchup marked the first national championship appearance for the Indiana Hoosiers, who faced off against the Miami Hurricanes on one of the sport’s biggest stages.
Standing at center field, Roberts cut a sharp figure in a black suit as he delivered the anthem with poise and restraint. He was joined by American Sign Language performer Maria Pernalete, whose expressive interpretation added another layer of meaning to the moment. Staying true to the song’s traditional melody, Roberts infused the performance with his signature soulful tone, elevating the emotion of the anthem’s powerful lyrics.
Viewers were quick to praise the performance, calling it “magnificent” and hailing it as “one of the best renditions we’ve ever heard.”
Roberts rose to national prominence as the winner of American Idol Season 23, defeating finalists John Foster and Breanna Nix. His breakout cover of Tom Odell’s “Heal” not only captivated audiences but also topped Billboard’s Hot Gospel Songs chart.
A P.E. teacher and father of three, Roberts made American Idol history by earning more public votes than any contestant before him. Since his victory, he has continued to build momentum, earning high-profile opportunities that reflect his growing influence in music.
Roberts now joins an elite group of artists who have performed the national anthem at the college football championship, including Fantasia, Natalie Grant, Pentatonix, and Grammy nominee Coco Jones.