BREAKING: The Indiana Hoosiers have made history, clinching their first-ever undefeated regular season with a commanding 56-3 victory over archrival Purdue on Friday night at Ross-Ade Stadium, West Lafayette. This remarkable achievement puts Indiana at 12-0 for the first time in program history, solidifying their place among college football’s elite.
Head coach Curt Cignetti expressed disbelief at the transformation of a program long considered one of college football’s most challenging. “This is something that a lot of people probably thought couldn’t happen,” he stated. “When you have commitment and a plan, anything’s possible.” The Hoosiers’ historic regular season follows a previous undefeated finish in 1945 (9-0-1), marking a significant ascent for the team.
The win not only secured the Old Oaken Bucket trophy but also set Indiana on a path to the Big Ten Championship on December 6. Cignetti, who took over the program in winter 2023, attributed the success to the collective effort of players, coaches, and staff. “This team will always be the first team in Indiana history to go undefeated in the regular season,” he declared.
Senior center Pat Coogan rallied the team before the game, motivating players with a passionate speech about their journey. Quarterback Fernando Mendoza reflected on Coogan’s words, emphasizing the unique blend of transfers and former players, all united in their quest for victory. “We have a chance to be 12-0,” Mendoza stated, and they did not disappoint.
The Hoosiers’ defense was led by senior linebacker Aiden Fisher, who emphasized the team’s unity. “Everybody just wants to win,” he said, highlighting the importance of embracing individual roles. Senior defensive end Stephen Daley, who previously faced struggles at Kent State, thrived in Indiana’s system, contributing significantly to the team’s defensive success.
Cignetti approached the game with uncertainty about his team’s killer instinct but was rewarded when they not only delivered but dominated. “They lit cigars in the visiting locker room,” Cignetti noted, allowing the team to celebrate their historic win for 24 hours before turning their focus to the next challenge.
The Hoosiers are now poised for a shot at the Big Ten Championship and a potential run for the College Football Playoff. Mendoza stressed the importance of maintaining focus, stating, “We’ve got to keep on going harder.” Fisher echoed this sentiment, already looking ahead to future games. “We know we have something special with this team.”
As Indiana prepares for the championship, the excitement is palpable. Fans and players alike are eager to see how far this historic season can take them. The Hoosiers have proven they are no longer the underdogs; they are contenders on the national stage.
