Indiana is enjoying a remarkable season, boasting an impressive 10-0 record and holding the No. 5 spot in the College Football Playoff rankings as they gear up for a crucial Week 13 clash against Ohio State. The anticipation is palpable as the Hoosiers prepare to face the formidable No. 2 Buckeyes. A victory in this matchup would not only be historic—marking Indiana’s first win over Ohio State since 1988—but it would also likely secure the Hoosiers a place in the Big Ten title game.
The mastermind behind Indiana’s success
The driving force behind Indiana’s success is none other than head coach Curt Cignetti, who was brought on board in December 2023. At 63 years old, Cignetti has transformed the Hoosiers into a powerhouse, demonstrating his ability to lead at the highest level of college football. But how did he get here?
Cignetti’s journey to this point has been anything but conventional. Before taking the helm at Indiana, he spent decades honing his craft as an assistant coach, including a stint with the legendary Nick Saban at Alabama. In a bold move, he took a pay cut and accepted a demotion to pursue his dream of becoming a head coach.
Curt Cignetti’s coaching journey
Cignetti’s coaching career began in 1983 at the University of Pittsburgh, where he served as a graduate assistant. Over the next two decades, he bounced around various collegiate programs, including Davidson, Rice, Temple, and NC State, where he made a name for himself as a quarterbacks and tight ends coach.
His time at Alabama from 2007 to 2010 was a significant highlight. As part of Saban’s first staff, Cignetti played a crucial role in developing future stars like Julio Jones and Mark Ingram. The Tide experienced tremendous success during his tenure, including a national championship in 2009.
From Division II to FBS
In 2011, Cignetti took on his first head coaching position at the Division II Indiana University of Pennsylvania. There, he revitalized a struggling program, leading the Crimson Hawks to a remarkable 53-17 record over six seasons. His success at IUP opened doors to further opportunities, including head coaching roles at Elon University and James Madison University.
At Elon, Cignetti quickly turned the program around, leading the Phoenix to their first playoff appearances in years. His time at James Madison was even more impressive, as he guided the Dukes to multiple conference championships and playoff berths, culminating in a successful transition to the FBS level.
Why did Curt Cignetti leave Alabama?
Cignetti’s decision to leave Alabama, a coveted position for many coaches, was driven by his desire to take the reins as a head coach. After more than two decades as an assistant, he felt it was time to step into a leadership role, even if it meant moving down a division.
This decision wasn’t easy, especially with a family to support. Cignetti’s wife, Manette, recalls the challenges they faced, including a significant pay cut. But Cignetti was determined to make it work, believing in his ability to succeed as a head coach.
Curt Cignetti’s impressive coaching record
Cignetti’s track record speaks volumes about his coaching prowess. His overall record, which includes Indiana’s current undefeated season, stands at an impressive 129-35. Throughout his career, Cignetti’s teams have reached the postseason nine times and finished ranked in the Top 25 another nine times.
Here’s a look at his coaching record at various institutions:
| Years | School | Record |
|---|---|---|
| 2011-2016 | Indiana University of Pennsylvania | 53-17 |
| 2017-2018 | Elon University | 14-9 |
| 2019-2023 | James Madison University | 52-9 |
Cignetti’s ability to build winning programs has made him a sought-after coach in college football, and his current success at Indiana has only solidified his reputation.
What’s next for Cignetti and the Hoosiers?
As Indiana prepares for their monumental matchup against Ohio State, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The Hoosiers are not only fighting for a victory but also for a chance to make history and secure a spot in the Big Ten title game.
With Cignetti at the helm, fans are optimistic about what the future holds for Indiana football. His recent contract extension, which reportedly pays him $8 million per year, reflects the school’s commitment to building a winning program. This deal positions him as the highest-paid employee in Indiana’s history and ensures that he will have the resources needed to continue elevating the Hoosiers.
In just a short time, Cignetti has transformed Indiana into a serious contender in college football. His journey from assistant coach to head coach is a testament to his dedication and passion for the game. As the Hoosiers look to maintain their perfect record, one thing is clear: the future is bright for Indiana football under Curt Cignetti’s leadership.
