If Indiana football were Ohio State, there’d be no debate about No. 1 | Opinion

Indiana football has been dominating the college football scene, leaving many to question why the national polls have not yet reflected this success. The Hoosiers, under the guidance of Coach Curt Cignetti, have had a remarkable run, winning 16 games and 33 out of 35 this season. Last year, they achieved the greatest turnaround in Big Ten history and made a significant impact in the 2024 season, and their performance in 2025 has only continued to improve.

Despite this stellar performance, the Hoosiers are still being ranked lower in pre-season polls, leading to speculation about the reasons behind the hesitation. Some suggest it may be envy or a perceived brand issue, while others argue that Indiana still faces the stigma of being a lesser-known program. However, Coach Cignetti and his team have proven that they can overcome these obstacles with smart coaching, talent evaluation, and player development.

They have managed to recruit elite players and transform the team into a powerhouse, achieving unprecedented success.