It seems like the entire state of Indiana is thinking one word: finally. In one week, the Indiana Hoosiers are heading to the College Football Playoff against the in-state powerhouse Notre Dame. These two teams have not matched up since 1991, and after a disappointing showing against Ohio State, Head Coach Curt Cignetti and the hoosiers are looking to get their record breaking season back on track with the program’s first ever playoff victory.
Indiana’s Historic Season
IU has built up an impressive resume with an 11-1 record this season. Coach Cignetti has completely transformed Indiana’s identity. Known for his success at James Madison, where he led his team to a 52-9 record, Cignetti not only brought tons of transfer players to Bloomington, but also a culture of discipline and belief.
Perhaps the biggest key to victory for the Hoosiers is senior quarterback Kurtis Rourke, a transfer from Ohio University. Rourke has been outstanding in Indiana’s offensive resurgence, throwing for over 3,000 yards alongside star receiver Elijah Sarratt and running back Justice Ellison. IU’s star-studded offense has rarely wavered, and has continued to impress as the second highest scoring offense in college football, putting up 43.3 points per game.
The Notre Dame Challenge
Notre Dame, who has had some impressive teams over the last five years, enters the matchup as the favorite. Notre Dame is playing at home with an 11-1 record and a reputation as one of college football’s blue-blood teams. The Irish are led by quarterback Riley Leonard, who has more than 14 touchdowns rushing and passing. Notre Dame also flexes their young and powerful defense, one that ranks third nationally in points allowed at only 13.6 points per game. For Indiana, who hasn’t faced a true defense other than Ohio State-who dominated in IU’s only loss of the season-the Fighting Irish present a formidable challenge.
What’s at Stake
The Sugar Bowl will host the winner of this showdown on January 1 against number two-seeded Georgia, with the winner advancing to the semi-finals. This isn’t just a regular game for IU football. This is a contest that could prove to all the doubters that Indiana football is legit and belongs with the best of the best in the nation.
As kickoff approaches, one thing is clear: this is Indiana’s moment. The Hoosiers aren’t just representing Bloomington, they’re representing every underdog football team who’s dreamed of making it to the big stage.
