Indiana University achieved a historic milestone on March 15, 2025, by defeating the top-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes 13-10 to secure the Big Ten Championship. Under the leadership of head coach Curt Cignetti, the Hoosiers transformed their football program, marking their first conference title since 1967. This victory not only crowned Indiana as the Big Ten champions but also solidified their status as a legitimate contender for the national championship in the upcoming playoffs.
Cignetti’s vision for Indiana football was clear from the outset. He emphasized a culture of winning and rejected the notion of moral victories. In just 737 days, he took a program once known for its struggles and turned it into a powerhouse. After taking the reins, Indiana experienced a remarkable turnaround, achieving a school-record 11 wins in his first year. Many doubted whether the Hoosiers could maintain that momentum, but they have exceeded expectations this season, finishing with an undefeated record of 13-0 and becoming the last unbeaten team in major college football.
The championship win against Ohio State not only ended the Buckeyes’ 16-game winning streak but also marked Indiana’s first victory over them since 1988. This achievement reflects a complete turnaround for a program that had previously been the Football Bowl Subdivision’s losingest team. Along the way, Indiana also defeated the then No. 3 Oregon, ending the nation’s longest active regular-season winning streak.
The game was highlighted by a standout performance from Fernando Mendoza, who became the first Hoosier quarterback to be named the Big Ten’s top quarterback since 2001. Despite suffering an injury on the first play, Mendoza showcased his resilience, delivering a perfectly placed 17-yard touchdown pass to Elijah Sarratt that gave Indiana a crucial lead. He later sealed the game with a 33-yard pass to Charlie Becker on third down, further solidifying his place as a key player in Indiana’s success.
Cignetti’s bold approach was evident throughout the championship game, as he opted to play aggressively rather than conservatively. “I wasn’t going to play not to lose,” Cignetti stated, highlighting his commitment to a winning mentality. His leadership has resulted in an impressive record of 24-2 over his two years at the helm, with the only losses coming against Ohio State and Notre Dame—both of which were contenders in the national championship.
Indiana’s defense played a pivotal role in the victory, effectively stifling Ohio State’s offense and preventing them from finding the end zone. As the Hoosiers enter the playoffs, they boast both the top-ranked offense and defense in the country, a testament to the comprehensive approach that Cignetti has implemented.
The significance of this championship extends beyond the victory itself. Linebacker Isaiah Jones expressed the team’s united spirit, stating, “We played for each other.” This triumph serves as a powerful message to skeptics who doubted Indiana’s ability to compete at this level.
With the Hoosiers now poised for a playoff run, they are ready to take on their next challenge. Cignetti’s leadership and the dedication of the players have transformed a program that was once overlooked, and they are determined to prove that their success is more than just a fleeting moment.
As Indiana prepares for the playoffs, the football community will be watching closely to see how far this revitalized program can go. The journey from the bottom to the top has been extraordinary, and the Hoosiers are ready to make their mark in college football history.
