In a pivotal moment for Indiana football, coach Curt Cignetti shared his insights on how the Hoosiers can secure a win against the Oregon Ducks in the Peach Bowl. The highly anticipated matchup is set for 7:30 PM on Friday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. During a press conference at the College Football Hall of Fame, Cignetti outlined several critical factors that could lead to victory.
While Oregon”s coach Dan Lanning focused on ball security and special teams, Cignetti emphasized a broader range of essential elements. “We discuss the same fundamentals every game,” Cignetti stated. “Control the line of scrimmage, establish the run, stop their run, pressure their quarterback, and protect our own. We lead the nation in turnover ratio and aim for explosive plays, with plus-12 for runs and plus-15 for passes.”
Cignetti continued, highlighting the importance of performing well in critical situations such as third and fourth downs, red zone efficiency, and the two-minute drill before halftime and at the end of games. “Each game, we focus on the same tasks,” he quipped, showcasing his confidence in the team”s preparations.
This season, the Hoosiers have consistently met Cignetti”s high expectations, reflected in their undefeated record and impressive rankings across various statistical categories. Offensively, Indiana ranks 11th in the FBS for rushing, averaging 220.7 yards per game. Despite some challenges in pass protection, Fernando Mendoza, the redshirt junior quarterback, has been sacked only 21 times in 14 games. The team excels on third down, converting 56.47% of attempts, although their fourth-down success rate sits at 50%.
In the red zone, Indiana has been particularly effective, ranking 17th in scoring rate at 91.18% and 14th in touchdown efficiency at 72.06%. Mendoza has shown poise in clutch situations, throwing game-winning touchdowns in crucial moments against teams like Iowa and Penn State.
Defensively, the Hoosiers have been formidable, ranking second in both scoring defense, allowing just 10.3 points per game, and total defense, yielding only 252.6 yards per game. Indiana”s run defense is particularly strong, permitting a mere 73.7 rushing yards per game. Under the guidance of defensive coordinator Bryant Haines, the Hoosiers have developed one of the most aggressive defenses in college football, achieving 118 tackles for loss and 42 sacks this season.
Moreover, Indiana”s secondary is known for its ability to create turnovers, with 17 interceptions, tying for the eighth-most in the FBS. The Hoosiers excel in critical defensive situations, limiting opponents to a mere 28.02% conversion rate on third downs and showing resilience on fourth downs.
Special teams also play a critical role in Indiana”s strategy. Kicker Nico Radicic has been outstanding, converting 16 of 17 field goal attempts and maintaining a perfect record on extra points, earning the Big Ten”s Kicker of the Year award. Indiana has also excelled in preventing significant returns, not allowing any punt return beyond 20 yards this season.
As the Hoosiers prepare to face a formidable opponent in Oregon, they will need to rise to the occasion once more. The stakes are high, and Cignetti”s experience and strategic focus will be crucial in guiding the team through this significant challenge.
