How Curt Cignetti built college football's best staff

Curt Cignetti's coaching acumen is driving Indiana's unexpected success in college football. Known for identifying and nurturing coaching talent, Cignetti has built a cohesive and successful program by surrounding himself with loyal assistants, many of whom have followed him from previous coaching positions at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP), Elon, and James Madison. His key deputies, offensive coordinator Mike Shanahan and defensive coordinator Bryant Haines, have been with him for over a decade, exemplifying Cignetti's focus on loyalty and development.

Under Cignetti's leadership, Indiana's coaching staff has achieved notable results, including a nation's best plus-21 turnover margin. The team is recognized for its strong defense, ranking second in several national defensive categories. Cignetti's approach to coaching involves not only developing players but also nurturing young coaching talent, as seen with former staff members like Miami's defensive coordinator Corey Hetherman, who previously worked under Cignetti.

Cignetti's methods, emphasizing efficiency and