Coming off a statement win, the Indiana Hoosiers sit at a perfect 6-0. And the Hoosiers are no fluke, because Curt Cignetti’s squad remains as balanced as possible. While the offense hums at 502.8 YPG, ranking 4th nationally, the defense? “We were tremendous. You know, TFLs, sacks… Second half, gave up 3 points, had 2 interceptions,” said Cignetti after silencing Oregon. Even David Pollack couldn’t help but admit, “Indiana was good, man.”

Now, while it looks like that fiery intro speech, “I win. Google me,” wasn’t just talk, the HC knows there are concerns, too. On October 13, ahead of the game against MI State, when asked why Indiana’s WRs aren’t rotating like last year, Cignetti shot straight. According to Michael Niziolek, Indiana beat writer, Cignetti stated, “Last year, we had a lot of experience and depth,” he said. It simply translates to what the Hoosiers are missing this season.

However, a year ago, the WR room had some serious firepower. Elijah Sarratt and Omar Cooper Jr. were young but fearless playmakers. Then Miles Cross brought 132 career catches, while Myles Price had 199 plus grabs and now flashes that same talent in the NFL. More importantly, Ke’Shawn Williams and Donaven McCulley were right in the mix. But now the situation is uncommon.

Therefore, Pollack summed it up best, stating, “Indiana still has a lot of things that have to go right for them.” He’s not wrong because that old rotation now looks like a luxury. That’s why Cignetti said, “We just had more experienced depth, guys that had done it successfully at this level. Our backups now are a little younger, still developing. But they’ve done well when they get in there, for sure.”

So while Cooper, Sarratt, and E.J. Williams continue to make waves, freshmen like Myles Kendrick, Davion Chandler, and Lebron Bond are still blooming. But beyond the lack of experience, there was another concern affecting the WR unit’s depth. These young players need time to bloom and should be nurtured carefully. Yet, controlling injuries remains a cause of concern for Pollard.

“Specifically, the injury bug, they just can’t afford to get guys nicked up,” warned Pollack. “They don’t have the depth.” And that proved true. As senior WR Tyler Morris went down with a non-contact knee injury in spring camp, ending his 2025 season before it even began. Despite that, don’t count this group out. Even with depth concerns, this WR unit keeps lighting up scoreboards.

Remember, in the game against the Ducks, QB Fernando Mendoza’s lone TD came late in the 4th quarter, connecting on an 8-yard strike to Sarratt? Now, with concerns surfacing about the WR unit, what is Curt Cignetti’s mindset heading into the Michigan State game?

Curt Cignetti stays composed despite WR concerns

The Hoosiers are undefeated after toppling Oregon 30-20 on the road. Their No. 3 ranking in this week’s AP poll marks the highest spot the program has ever reached. But for Curt Cignetti, the past is behind them. “Rip off the rearview mirror, so to speak,” he said.

“Total focus on Michigan State. The key now is our response coming off this game… when you prepare properly, it breeds confidence and brings out your best.” So, where does Michigan State stand in the conference right now?

In conference play, MI State stands at 0-3 after three losses. Despite that, Cignetti isn’t leaving anything to chance. “Playing a good football team this week in Michigan State,” said Cignetti. “They had two hard-fought losses on the road against USC and Nebraska… but they’ve got a lot of good players, great coaches. I really respect Coach Smith.” However, the Hoosiers have history on their side.

Last season, IU dominated Michigan State 47-10. To cap it off, they have won three of the last five matchups. Although home turf has been a different story. But the Hoosiers haven’t beaten the Spartans in Bloomington since 2016. Now, this Saturday, Cignetti faces a tough test. And we’ll see if the Hoosiers can keep their winning streak alive.