How Indiana broke college football

Indiana University's football program has undergone a dramatic transformation under head coach Curt Cignetti, shifting from a struggling team in the Big Ten to a national championship contender. Over the past two years, the Hoosiers have achieved a remarkable 26-2 record, including significant playoff victories against powerhouses like Alabama and Oregon. This rapid turnaround is attributed to several factors including strategic utilization of the transfer portal, increased financial investment in the football program, and Cignetti’s leadership.

Indiana's football budget has expanded from under $24 million in 2021 to over $61 million in 2025, demonstrating a significant commitment to improving the program. This financial commitment allowed Indiana to attract high-profile transfers, such as Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza. The changes have sparked discussions across college football about the feasibility of rapid program turnarounds and increased expectations for other programs.

The success at Indiana has also highlighted the shifting dynamics in college football, where financial resources and strategic use of transfers can quickly alter a