In a stunning display of resilience and determination, the No. 2 ranked Indiana Hoosiers captured the Big Ten Championship by defeating the top-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes 13-10 in Indianapolis on March 15, 2025. This victory marks Indiana’s first conference title since 1967 and caps an extraordinary turnaround under head coach Curt Cignetti, who has transformed the program from the Football Bowl Subdivision’s losingest team to a legitimate championship contender in just over two years.
Cignetti, who took the reins of the Hoosiers in 2023, emphasized from day one that he would not accept moral victories. His ambitious vision for the program has quickly borne fruit, culminating in an impressive record of 24 wins and only two losses. The only defeats came against national championship contenders last season, Ohio State and Notre Dame.
A Historic Victory
The Hoosiers’ triumph over Ohio State ended a 30-year losing streak against the Buckeyes, a feat that ignited celebrations among fans and players alike. As the trophy presentation unfolded, Cignetti humorously remarked, “I think we were a year late,” reflecting on the rapid success he has brought to the program.
Indiana’s journey this season has been remarkable. With a perfect record of 13-0, they are the last unbeaten team in major college football. Their victory on Saturday not only secured the Big Ten title but also ended Ohio State’s 16-game winning streak. The Hoosiers have also achieved significant milestones this year, including defeating then No. 3 Oregon, which halted the nation’s longest active regular season winning streak.
Quarterback Fernando Mendoza played a pivotal role in the championship game, showcasing resilience after sustaining an injury on the first play. He delivered a critical 17-yard touchdown pass to Elijah Sarratt, giving Indiana a lead midway through the third quarter. Mendoza sealed the victory with a remarkable 33-yard completion to Charlie Becker on a crucial third down, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure.
Recognition and Future Aspirations
Following the championship, Mendoza’s performance has put him in contention for the prestigious Heisman Trophy, making him the first Indiana player since 2001 to be named the Big Ten’s top quarterback. Cignetti also earned his second consecutive Big Ten Coach of the Year Award, solidifying his status as a transformative leader.
The Hoosiers’ success has raised expectations not just within their program but across college football. With a solid foundation in scoring offense and defense, they are poised to make a significant impact as they head into the playoffs. Cignetti’s leadership has cultivated a winning mentality, steering Indiana away from its troubled past and instilling confidence in a team that now believes they can achieve greatness.
As linebacker Isaiah Jones articulated, “It means a lot, we played for each other. For any of the doubters out there, this was the final nail in the coffin.” With a promising future ahead, the Indiana Hoosiers are ready to embark on a new chapter in their football history, one that may redefine their legacy as a competitive force in the NCAA landscape.
