Curt Cignetti's Indiana success makes this a dirty word for coaches

Curt Cignetti's rapid success at Indiana University has reshaped expectations for college football coaches, emphasizing immediate results over long-term rebuilding. In just two years, Cignetti led Indiana from being one of the nation's weakest programs to the national championship game, challenging the traditional notion that coaches need several years to achieve success. This approach has diminished the patience once afforded to coaches, highlighting the impact of NIL deals and transfer opportunities in accelerating program turnarounds.

The success of Cignetti, who utilized key transfers like quarterback Fernando Mendoza, has set a precedent that pressures coaches to deliver quick improvements. The trend is evident as programs like Auburn and Michigan State have made swift coaching changes after short tenures without significant progress. In contrast, Miami's Mario Cristobal exemplifies how patience can pay off when paired with evident progress, achieving a breakthrough in his fourth season after initial struggles.

This shift in expectations is reflected across college football, where quick turnarounds are increasingly demanded by fans and boosters, who expect