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No. 1 Indiana Enters CFP After Big Ten Upset as Mendoza Wins Heisman

A transfer-driven rebuild under coach Curt Cignetti accelerated by NIL spending has turned a perennial loser into a contender.

Overview

  • Indiana is undefeated and holds the No. 1 seed, with its College Football Playoff game set for New Year's Day.
  • Curt Cignetti received an eight-year, $90 million contract extension as the university prioritizes retention.
  • The athletic department reported more than $60 million in 2024 football spending, with donor support including alum Mark Cuban.
  • Roster construction relied on the transfer portal, highlighted by 13 arrivals from James Madison and quarterback Fernando Mendoza from Cal.
  • Under Cignetti, the Hoosiers are 24-2 without a home loss after entering the season as the losingest program in Division I.