MIAMI — After a hard-fought battle, Indiana football coach Curt Cignetti spoke to the media following his team”s 27-21 victory over Miami in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game held at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. Here are the highlights from Cignetti”s postgame press conference.
Curt Cignetti: “It was a hard-fought game. I want to give a lot of credit to Miami. It was a true gut check for us, but we found a way to win. This victory speaks volumes about our players” resilience. Winning the National Championship just two years into our tenure is a remarkable achievement. It comes down to our people and our plan. I can”t emphasize enough the importance of our senior leadership and the commitment from our entire staff, including our strength and conditioning team, and the support from President Whitten and Scott Dolson. I should mention that our NIL situation is not what many assume it to be, so let”s dismiss that idea (laughter). This team has overcome numerous challenges, battling through tight games, and finishing the season at 16-0. Many doubted that Indiana could achieve this, but here we are, national champions, which I believe is one of the greatest sports stories ever told. I am incredibly proud of our players and staff, and tonight is a monumental occasion for us.”
When asked about his decision to call a field goal attempt with nine minutes left in the game, Cignetti explained, “We had gone for it on fourth down earlier in the game, and we were facing some protection issues. I didn”t feel confident about kicking a field goal at that moment, especially since we had a quarterback draw in place specifically for that situation. Our line executed well, and it was a critical play that helped us maintain momentum.”
Reflecting on his father, who was a well-respected coach, Cignetti shared, “I thought about him after the game. When we transitioned from FCS to FBS, he was in a coma, and we won that first game decisively. My family told him about the win, and he smiled. After he passed, we had a significant comeback win that I hope he was able to see. He was a great role model, and I feel fortunate to have had him as my father.”
Regarding the special teams” performance, Cignetti praised players like Mikail Kamara, who made key plays throughout the season. “Mikail blocked a punt during the game, showcasing the importance of our starters contributing on special teams. His instincts were crucial when he decided to make a play,” he noted.
Cignetti also addressed the broader implications of their victory, saying, “We have sent a message to the sports community that with hard work and the right personnel, anything is achievable. The landscape of college football has changed, and while we may not have eight first-round draft picks, our team”s unity and effort were more significant than individual talent.”
He concluded by discussing the impact of this championship on perceptions of Indiana football: “Now, we are national champions. Indiana”s football history has had its ups and downs, but there has been a shift in focus towards football. We have leadership that values the sport, and our fan base is incredibly supportive. This victory will change how people view our program, and we need to keep striving for improvement.”
As Cignetti looked ahead, he acknowledged the challenges of maintaining success and the importance of building connections with the team. He stated, “I will cherish the relationships I have developed with these players. This team was exceptionally close, and moments like our comeback against Penn State were pivotal.”
In closing, Cignetti reflected on his journey, noting, “I have always wanted to coach at this level, but I never truly believed it would happen. This moment is a testament to perseverance and dedication.”
