Indiana football’s Curt Cignetti was a big Bob Knight guy, because of course

Indiana football head coach Curt Cignetti is preparing to lead the Hoosiers in their first-ever national championship game against Miami, scheduled for Monday at 7:30 ET. This achievement comes in only Cignetti's second season with the program, a significant turnaround for a team that had long struggled in college football. Under Cignetti's leadership, Indiana holds a perfect 15-0 record and secured its third Big Ten title, the first since 1967. The team advanced to the championship game following decisive victories over Alabama and Oregon in the College Football Playoff.

Cignetti, who previously coached at James Madison, Elon, and Indiana University of Pennsylvania, has drawn comparisons to the late Bob Knight, a legendary figure in Indiana sports history known for his basketball success. Despite rumors linking him to NFL coaching positions, including the Pittsburgh Steelers, Cignetti has stated his commitment to college football, dismissing any interest in a professional move. The championship game represents a historic opportunity for