Indiana football coach Curt Cignetti addressed the media following his team”s impressive 27-24 victory over Penn State on Saturday at Beaver Stadium. This win marked a significant achievement for the No. 2 ranked Hoosiers.
Cignetti expressed immense pride in his players, stating, “I am super proud of our team and our players. They refused to lose even in the most challenging moments when it seemed impossible. With only a minute left and no timeouts on the two-yard line, we hadn”t been productive offensively for some time. Our quarterback had taken numerous hits, yet we made incredible plays and scored at the end. It truly is a game of inches, and this team refused to lose.” He continued, acknowledging that while there would be things to improve upon in the tape review, it was still a remarkable victory.
When discussing the final drive, Cignetti mentioned, “At that point, I focused on coaching Mike. He doesn”t need much coaching, but I wanted to help him get the ball out quickly and into a rhythm. We executed some effective seam routes, and Mike performed admirably. Fernando endured numerous hits but maintained his composure and made crucial plays towards the end.”
The coach highlighted key contributions from players like Charlie Becker, who made significant catches during the game. “Charlie made fantastic plays when we needed him,” Cignetti noted. “We left many opportunities on the field today in our passing game, but that is something we will address tomorrow.”
On the performance of his offensive line, Cignetti remarked, “We struggled up front, which disrupted our quarterback”s rhythm. It”s challenging to play quarterback without proper protection. We need to keep the quarterback in sync, and when he releases the ball quickly, good things happen.”
Reflecting on the drive that sealed the victory, he said, “We had one last big run left in us when many had likely counted us out. After Fernando was sacked on first down, I”m sure many in this room had given up on us. But we executed a great drive.”
When asked about his confidence in quarterback Fernando, Cignetti explained, “I coach according to the game”s circumstances. It”s crucial to use timeouts effectively and give us the best chance to succeed. Players need to make plays on the field, and we were able to complete passes when it mattered most.”
Regarding the reviewed touchdown by Omar Cooper, Cignetti stated, “At that moment, I was preparing the next call and trying to understand the field position. I believe the officials handled the situation very well. Once we confirmed it was a touchdown, we needed to get the extra point unit ready.”
As the game progressed and challenges mounted, Cignetti reassured his players by saying, “We will find out what we are made of.” He emphasized the importance of staying focused as they entered the last drive, recalling similar situations from fall camp where they had succeeded.
When asked about the exceptional catch made by Omar Cooper in the back of the end zone, Cignetti admitted, “I need to review the play on tape. It was an outstanding catch, and keeping that toe in bounds requires a special talent.”
With two games remaining in the season, Cignetti was asked about Fernando”s potential Heisman candidacy, to which he responded, “I don”t think about that. Our focus is on developing him into the best player he can be.”
Overall, Cignetti”s reflections encapsulate not only a thrilling victory but also the resilience and determination of his team as they continue to strive for success.
