Goodman: Is the secret to Indiana’s success steroid use?

Indiana University's football team has experienced a rapid rise under head coach Curt Cignetti, reaching the College Football Playoff National Championship for the first time in the program's history. Speculation about the team's success being linked to performance-enhancing drugs has been addressed, with assurances that the NCAA conducts random drug testing for PEDs throughout the season and during bowl games.

Cignetti's team-building strategy focuses on utilizing the transfer portal effectively, bringing in experienced players who meet specific criteria, including high character and intelligence. Since his arrival from James Madison in 2024, Cignetti has recruited over 50 players through the portal, significantly improving the team's performance.

The Hoosiers are set to face Miami at Hard Rock Stadium, with the Hurricanes favored by 7.5 points. Indiana's success is attributed to Cignetti's modern approach to team building in college football's evolving landscape, emphasizing the need for immediate competitiveness and strategic recruitment from both high school and the transfer portal.