Indiana Hoosiers head coach Curt Cignetti has issued a bold call to action for his seniors ahead of the pivotal Old Oaken Bucket game against Purdue this Saturday. As the Hoosiers aim to cap off their record-breaking 10-1 season, Cignetti emphasized the stakes, urging the team to deliver an “exclamation point” on their historic campaign.
A Season for the Record Books
Under Cignetti’s leadership, Indiana has achieved its greatest football season in school history, entering the College Football Playoff conversation for the first time. A win against Purdue could solidify their CFP hopes, while a loss would almost certainly derail them.
“This Group Must Be Remembered”
Speaking on the Inside Indiana radio show, Cignetti praised the seniors for their hard work and leadership but stressed that their legacy hinges on Saturday’s performance.
> “We’ve got one game left in this season. We need to put an exclamation point on this regular season, or this group won’t be remembered quite as fondly as they could be. That must get done,” Cignetti said.
High Stakes and Potential Rewards
A decisive victory could position Indiana for the Big Ten Championship Game, contingent on Ohio State and Penn State losing their final games. An emphatic win would also boost their standing with the CFP selection committee.
> “An emphatic win would almost certainly cement the Hoosiers’ place in the College Football Playoff field,” Cignetti noted.
Senior Leadership at the Forefront
Cignetti highlighted the contributions of veteran players, particularly quarterback Kurtis Rourke. Describing Rourke as a “steady Eddie,” Cignetti credited him with being a pivotal force in Indiana’s success.
> “Kurtis was looking for an opportunity on a bigger stage. He came in, tasted success, and built off every game. He’s meant so much to this football team,” Cignetti said.
Rallying the Fans
Cignetti also called on Indiana fans to brave the cold and pack Memorial Stadium, emphasizing the importance of a home-field advantage. Despite the Thanksgiving break and frigid 30-degree temperatures forecasted for kickoff, the game is officially sold out.
> “We really need to get the students back. It’s got to be loud. It’s got to be a winning edge for us,” he urged.
“A Lot of This Book Left to Be Written”
Cignetti expressed confidence in the team’s ability to rise to the occasion, hinting that this historic season could extend into even greater accomplishments.
> “If it’s a 12-chapter book or 14, 15, 16 chapters… I think there’s a lot of this book left to be written,” Cignetti concluded.
With a sold-out crowd, high stakes, and senior players leading the charge, the Hoosiers are poised to make history—or risk seeing their remarkable season fade from memory.
