The Indiana Hoosiers had a tough time during the 2023 season, wrapping up with a disappointing record of 3-9 under head coach Tom Allen. Because of their struggles, they ended up at the bottom of the FBS rankings, which led to Allen being let go after the final game. The team brought in a new head coach, Curt Cignetti, who had a solid reputation for turning around struggling programs. When he was asked about himself, he famously said, “I win; Google me.” This got a few raised eyebrows, and he seemed a bit overconfident, as if he didn’t quite grasp the challenges of leading Indiana. Just to put things in perspective, the last time the Hoosiers won a trophy was way back in 1967—when folks were still watching games on black-and-white TVs! 

The head coach really proved the doubters wrong when Indiana ended the 2024 season with an impressive 11-2 record and made the playoffs for the first time! What’s even cooler is that Cignetti’s team managed to beat both Washington and Michigan, the two squads that faced off in the 2023 national championship game. Of course, Cignetti had some serious talent in Kurtis Rourke, who transferred in from Ohio. Rourke totally crushed it, throwing for 3,042 yards and racking up 31 touchdowns. But now the team’s in a bit of a pickle since he’s moved on to the NFL, and there are some worries about the quarterback situation this season.

If you ask Cignetti, he has roped in a very underrated QB in Fernando Mendoza, who will be coming after a 3,000+ yard season with the California Golden Bears. The head coach, when asked if the QB would be a threat, was all in praise for Mendoza. “I think with him, you’re going to get some of it without even calling it. You know, like we’re having a big discussion on the quarterback draw, and when you look at our pocket passes and how many times he runs for a big game.” The head coach even praised the passing ability that Mendoza brings to the table.

“He’s got good movement, quick release, and can make all the throws. He’s accurate, also. Throws the ball on a run really well. So, yeah. Well, we move him around a little more than we do.” The QB rushed for 105 yards at California last year and scored 12 touchdowns. In Cignetti’s offense, the player will be expected to thrive, as his arm strength is unworldly, and he can make decent short-yardage runs, too. Something we didn’t see with Rourke last year.

In addition to his skills as a quarterback, he brings a new dimension to the team. Unlike traditional pocket passers, he can execute more run-pass option (RPO) plays, allowing Mike Shanahan to overload the defense and create a numerical advantage for the offense. Mendoza will also play a key role in directing the run game, helping backs like Roman Hemby and creating space for play-action passes. His quick decision-making and rapid release will provide a significant competitive edge to an already elite offense.

Curt Cignetti signs a big portal addition for the WR room

We all know how NIL and the transfer portal have nearly disrupted the dynamics of college football right now. On the one hand, we have power teams like Oregon, Texas, and Ohio State with their endless financial backing, and on the other hand, are the programs that are succumbing to poaching done by NIL money by the teams. This was something Curt Cignetti couldn’t just silently watch, and he decided to put in some moves in the portal.

The head coach himself has roped in a transfer prospect in Jonathan Brady after the team lost their top WR, Tyler Morris. Hayce Fawcett reported on his May 3 IG post. “Cal transfer WR Jonathan Brady has committed to Indiana.” The player arriving from Cal provides a wealth of experience and talent.

The wide receiver totaled 1,320 receiving yards over three seasons at New Mexico and Cal. Moreover, standing at 5’10” and 180 lbs, the player provides the type of pace and agility that Cignetti will require. Brady will have one year of eligibility remaining as he comes into the WR room to provide depth. The core already has Omar Cooper Jr. (594 yards in 2024) and Elijah Sarrat (957 yards in 2024), and the addition of Brady will undoubtedly be a boost for the team.