Will Indiana’s dream season under first-year coach Curt Cignetti continue? The No. 5 Hoosiers (10-0, 7-0 Big Ten) are set to face No. 2 Ohio State (9-1, 6-1) this Saturday, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Indiana aims to break a staggering 28-game losing streak against the Buckeyes at Ohio Stadium, a challenge that looms large in the history of Indiana football.
Indiana’s uphill battle
The last time Indiana triumphed over Ohio State was on October 8, 1988, when they secured a resounding 41-7 victory. Since then, the Hoosiers have been unable to find a way to overcome the Buckeyes, who have dominated the series since 1991. This upcoming matchup is not just another game; it represents a pivotal moment in Indiana’s football history. Can they finally turn the tide?
Understanding the streak
The Buckeyes’ current 28-game win streak against Indiana is the longest active streak against a single opponent in the FBS. The record for the most consecutive wins against one opponent is held by Notre Dame, which achieved 46 straight victories over Navy from 1964 to 2006. Ohio State has not only won these games but has done so with an average margin of 22.8 points per game, showcasing their dominance. In fact, only five of those encounters have been decided by single digits.
When was Indiana’s last victory against Ohio State?
The Hoosiers’ last victory against the Buckeyes remains a cherished memory for Indiana fans. That day in 1988, star running back Anthony Thompson ran wild, racking up 190 yards and scoring four touchdowns. Indiana led 28-0 at halftime, a performance that solidified their place in the annals of college football. Under coach Bill Mallory, the Hoosiers finished that season with an impressive 8-3-1 record, a significant achievement for the program.
Who is Anthony Thompson?
Anthony Thompson is a name that resonates deeply in Indiana football lore. He holds the school record for rushing yards with 5,299 and touchdowns with 67. In 1988 alone, he amassed 1,686 rushing yards and 26 touchdowns, a feat that earned him a second-place finish in the Heisman Trophy voting in 1989, just behind Houston’s Andre Ware. His legacy is a reminder of what Indiana football can achieve.
Ranked Ohio State-Indiana games since 1991
Since 1991, Ohio State and Indiana have faced off as ranked teams on only three occasions. The most recent encounter was on November 21, 2020, when the No. 3 Buckeyes edged out No. 9 Indiana in a thrilling 42-35 shootout. Ohio State built a commanding 35-7 lead, but Indiana’s quarterback Michael Penix Jr. nearly orchestrated a remarkable comeback, throwing for 491 yards and five touchdowns. However, Ohio State’s defense held strong in the final moments to secure the victory.
Memorable matchups
Another notable clash occurred on November 13, 1993, when No. 5 Ohio State narrowly defeated No. 19 Indiana 23-17. Raymont Harris led the Buckeyes with 162 rushing yards, while Joey Galloway contributed with a touchdown reception. This game showcased Indiana’s resilience, but ultimately, Ohio State’s talent proved too much to handle.
Will Indiana end Ohio State’s win streak this year?
As the Hoosiers prepare for this monumental showdown, fans are left wondering: can they finally end the Buckeyes’ lengthy win streak? This matchup promises to be a classic Big Ten slugfest. Ohio State boasts the top defense in the FBS, allowing just 10.3 points per game, while Indiana ranks seventh, giving up 13.8 points per game.
Moreover, this game features the top two passers in the Big Ten. Indiana’s Kurtis Rourke leads the conference with a passer rating of 182.7, while Ohio State’s Will Howard is close behind at 181.9. Both quarterbacks have excelled in their respective systems, making this a must-watch battle.
The game will also spotlight Indiana’s Mikail Kamara, who leads the Big Ten with 9.5 sacks. Will he be able to disrupt Ohio State’s offense and create turnovers? Additionally, how will the absence of Ohio State’s center, Seth McLaughlin, due to injury, affect their game plan?
Ohio State vs. Indiana: Year-by-year results
To truly appreciate the magnitude of this rivalry, let’s take a look at the year-by-year results since 1991. The Buckeyes have consistently dominated, with notable victories including:
- Sept. 3, 2023: No. 3 Ohio State 23, Indiana 3
- Nov. 12, 2022: No. 2 Ohio State 56, Indiana 14
- Oct. 23, 2021: No. 5 Ohio State 54, Indiana 7
- Nov. 21, 2020: No. 3 Ohio State 42, No. 9 Indiana 35
As we look ahead to Saturday’s game, it’s clear that Indiana has a mountain to climb. But with a perfect season on the line and the chance to rewrite history, the Hoosiers will undoubtedly bring their A-game. Will they finally break the streak, or will Ohio State continue their reign? Fans are eagerly awaiting the answer!
