How Indiana broke college football
The New York Times • • general
Key Points:
- Indiana's football program has undergone a remarkable transformation under head coach Curt Cignetti, going from a Big Ten basement dweller to a national championship contender with a 26-2 record and playoff wins over Alabama and Oregon in just two years.
- This rapid success has intensified pressure across college football for programs to compete for championships annually, fueled by increased roster turnover via the transfer portal and heightened fan impatience.
- Indiana's turnaround is supported by a significant increase in football spending, with its budget more than doubling from under $24 million in 2021 to over $61 million in 2025, enabling high-profile transfers like Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza.
- The evolving landscape means coaches now prioritize program resources and financial commitment when
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