Curt Cignetti, Indiana reinvented how to build national championship roster
On3 • • sports
Key Points:
- Curt Cignetti led Indiana to a College Football Playoff national championship in just two years without relying on five-star recruits or top-25 signing classes, emphasizing experienced players and strong evaluation skills.
- Indiana's roster, valued under $20 million, is significantly less costly than competitors like Ohio State and Miami, highlighting Cignetti's focus on player roles, mental focus, and production over bidding wars for hyped talent.
- The program secured elite quarterback Fernando Mendoza via transfer and NIL investment, demonstrating a strategic commitment to key positions essential for championship success.
- Cignetti's background includes coaching under Nick Saban at Alabama and head coaching roles at smaller programs, refining his ability to build winning, well-evaluated teams with
