Cignetti’s Hoosiers Look to Build on Historic 2024 Playoff Run
After a season that reshaped expectations for Indiana football, head coach Curt Cignetti and the Hoosiers are charging full speed into the 2025 campaign with one clear goal: to prove last year wasn’t a fluke — it was just the beginning.
The Hoosiers made national headlines in 2024, finishing the regular season with a 10–2 record and earning their first-ever berth in the College Football Playoff. In a year filled with gritty wins, explosive offensive performances, and program-defining moments, Cignetti’s team captured the attention of the Big Ten — and the nation.
“We’re not satisfied,” Cignetti said during a spring press conference. “Last year was a step forward. Now, we want to become a program that lives in that conversation every year.”
Filling Big Shoes
The biggest question hovering over the Hoosiers heading into 2025 is how they’ll replace quarterback Kurtis Rourke, who led the team with over 3,000 yards and 29 touchdowns in 2024 — all while playing through a torn ACL. Rourke declared for the NFL Draft in January and is expected to be picked in the early rounds.
In his place, Indiana is running a heated quarterback battle during spring practice. Leading the competition is Fernando Mendoza, a transfer from Cal who has impressed early with his poise and arm strength. Grant Wilson, who transferred from Old Dominion, is also vying for snaps. Both are getting ample reps, and Cignetti has said the decision will be made “when someone clearly takes the reins.”
Transfers Fueling the Next Chapter
Part of Indiana’s 2024 success came from strong contributions by transfers, and the 2025 roster looks no different. Running back Roman Hemby (Maryland), tight end Holden Staes (Tennessee), offensive lineman Zen Michalski (Ohio State), and safety Louis Moore (Ole Miss) headline the list of talented newcomers.
“They’re experienced guys from big-time programs,” Cignetti noted. “They’re not just here to compete — they’re here to lead.”
Justice Ellison, who rushed for 848 yards and 10 touchdowns last season, has retired from playing but remains on staff as a quality control coach, continuing to add value from the sidelines.
Reinforcements on Defense
Defensively, Indiana will rely on veteran leadership and several key additions. With the return of Louis Moore and the expected emergence of younger talent in the secondary, the Hoosiers are aiming to tighten up a defense that was occasionally tested by high-powered Big Ten offenses.
Indiana’s 2025 recruiting class, ranked 43rd nationally, also brings fresh promise. Four-star safety Byron Baldwin and cornerback Chris McCorkle headline a group of 33 new scholarship players, many of whom are already participating in spring practices.
Schedule Loaded With Challenges — and Opportunity
Indiana’s 2025 schedule offers no easy road. The Hoosiers face tough away games against Iowa, Oregon, Penn State, and rival Purdue. But with six home games, including matchups against Illinois, Michigan State, UCLA, and Wisconsin, they’ll have ample opportunity to defend Memorial Stadium with the support of their growing fanbase.
The Spring Game, scheduled for Saturday, April 19, will offer the first live glimpse of what’s ahead.
The Standard Has Changed
Perhaps the biggest transformation isn’t the roster — it’s the mindset. Indiana football is no longer satisfied with mid-tier bowl games. Under Cignetti, the program now sees itself as a contender.
“We’ve raised the standard,” Cignetti said. “Now we’ve got to live up to it.”
If 2024 was the breakout, 2025 is the proving ground. And all eyes will be on Bloomington to see if the Hoosiers can keep climbing.
