Sports
Indiana’s Journey: From Basketball School to Football Powerhouse Is Now Complete
An Unlikely Champion: Indiana Hoosiers’ Historic Football Triumph
MIAMI — He was finally able to smile.
As red and white confetti rained down onto the field at Hard Rock Stadium Monday night, Indiana head coach Curt Cignetti, known for his stern demeanor, grinned widely at his players and coaches. They had achieved what many believed was impossible—becoming national champions.
This was the Hoosiers, a team that entered the season with the most total losses in college football history. Over 120 seasons, they had only three bowl victories, the last dating back to 1991. But all the doubts and historical baggage faded away as they clinched a 27-21 victory against Miami, completing one of the most remarkable turnarounds in sports history.
Cignetti couldn’t contain his excitement, proclaiming, “We’re 16-0, national champions at Indiana University, which I know a lot of people thought was never possible. It probably is one of the greatest sports stories of all time.”
A Culture Shift
Cignetti’s contribution to the Hoosiers extended beyond strategy; he transformed the culture of the football program. Attracting the right talent was pivotal, particularly bringing in 13 players from his previous school, James Madison, and star quarterback Fernando Mendoza.
Mendoza, who had already secured the Heisman Trophy as the best player in college football, rose to the occasion once again. He completed 16 of 27 passes for 186 yards, but his most critical moment came late in the fourth quarter. Down by three points and facing a daunting fourth-and-four on Miami’s 12-yard line, Cignetti decided to go for it rather than kick a field goal—a bold move that would ultimately pay dividends.
The Game-Changing Play
Mendoza took the snap, tucked the ball, and began an electrifying run. He evaded several defenders, bouncing off potential tackles, and leaped into the end zone, all while absorbing a tough hit. This audacious play not only exemplified his athleticism but also showcased his competitive spirit.
“Fernando, I know he’s great in interviews and comes off as the All-American guy, but he has the heart of a lion when it comes to competition,” Cignetti emphasized. “That guy competes like a warrior … Can’t say enough about his effort on that play and our team finding a way to get it done.”
Mendoza echoed his coach’s sentiments, acknowledging the effort of his teammates. “It wasn’t the perfect coverage for it, but I trust my linemen and everybody in that entire offense. That entire team had a gritty performance today.”
The Hoosiers’ Sleeping Giant
Indiana has long been considered a sleeping giant in college football. With the largest alumni base in the nation—over 800,000 living Hoosiers—the potential for revival has always been there, especially with the financial backing from affluent supporters.
The advent of new Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rules enables student-athletes to profit from their personal brand through sponsorships and endorsements. This shift has significantly impacted programs like Indiana that can attract recruits and transfers through financial incentives.
Billionaire Mark Cuban, a high-profile supporter, commented before the title game that this season had exceeded all expectations. He expressed confidence in the leadership at Indiana, stating, “As long as Coach Cig, (Athletic Director) Scott Dolson, and (President) Pam Whitten are the trio at the top, we’ll be good.”
Building for the Future
Looking ahead, changes are again on the horizon for the Hoosiers. Mendoza is expected to announce his decision to enter the NFL draft, likely positioning himself as the No. 1 pick. Meanwhile, at the quarterback position, Indiana has already secured Josh Hoover, the former TCU standout who threw for over 3,400 yards last season.
Cignetti’s recruiting efforts have been fruitful, securing more than a dozen commitments from top transfers, including former Michigan State wide receiver Nick Marsh and former Wisconsin offensive lineman Joe Brunner. According to On3’s Team Transfer Portal Index, the Hoosiers are currently ranked No. 1 for transfers next season, signaling that this year’s success is no fluke.
Voices from the Past
Amidst this resurgence, the long-time play-by-play voice of Indiana men’s basketball and football, Don Fisher, reflects on the journey. Having witnessed the program’s tumultuous history since 1973, Fisher understands the weight of the moment.
“For me, it does, there’s no question. I’ve been doing this for 53 years now and I’ve been a part of three national championship basketball teams and now I’ve got an unbeaten (football) champion,” he remarked. “In football, nobody ever thought it could happen — and it has.”
The triumph of the Hoosiers is not just a win on the field; it’s a testament to resilience, investment, and the unmistakable thrill of rewriting history.
Sports
How to Watch the CFP Championship: Time, Expectations, and More
Indiana Receiver Elijah Sarratt: Crafting a New Legacy
At the heart of Indiana’s football resurgence this season is wide receiver Elijah Sarratt, a name that’s quickly becoming synonymous with clutch plays and game-changing moments. Under the broad spectrum of college football, where skill meets theatricality, Sarratt’s journey showcases not just talent, but the evolution of a football philosophy—one inspired by the greats.
A Glimpse at Inspiration
Imagine a young player hunched over in the locker room, eyes glued to a screen showcasing NFL legend Aaron Rodgers. For Sarratt, watching Rodgers finesse back-shoulder fade passes to the renowned receiver Davante Adams ignited a light bulb moment. Why not adapt that exact play with his own quarterback, Fernando Mendoza? This simple question set the stage for an innovative connection that would change the course of their season.
Learning from the Best
Sarratt’s admiration for Adams goes beyond mere appreciation; it’s about emulating successful techniques. “Adams does a great job of getting the release off the ball, and then around 12, 14 yards, Aaron Rodgers just throws a laser,” Sarratt notes. The imagery he conjures illustrates not just the mechanics of the throw, but the sheer artistry involved. By employing a similar strategy, Sarratt recognized his own strengths. His ability to create separation at the line gave him confidence that he could successfully execute the play.
With the self-given nickname “Waffle House” as a reminder of his readiness—“because I’m open 24/7”—Sarratt embodies the spirit of a receiver always poised for action. Whether it’s in practice or the high-stakes moments of a game, he’s prepared to seize the opportunity.
Collaboration with Mendoza
After witnessing what could be a breakthrough in their playbook, Sarratt approached Mendoza. His eagerness showed not just in conversation but in action. “Same day after practice, we got a couple reps in, just trying to work it, be similar with how [Rodgers and Adams] were,” he recalled.
This willingness to experiment is a hallmark of modern football. Both players understand that communication is crucial. Sarratt emphasizes, “I try not to be picky. I just try to tell him to let me get my hands on it, and he does a great job putting it on the money.” This kind of rapport is essential, transforming practice reps into reliable in-game executions that can turn the tide.
Season of Success
The results of their collaboration speak volumes. As of now, Sarratt has tallied an impressive 62 receptions for 802 yards and 15 touchdowns. Not only does this place him among the top in the nation, but it also highlights a specific highlight reel filled with clutch back-shoulder fades from Mendoza. These moments of brilliance are what college football fans live for—plays that can decide the outcome of a game in the blink of an eye.
What makes Sarratt’s performance particularly compelling is the awareness of timing and precision required for these plays. When the stakes are high and defenses tighten, the back-shoulder fade becomes an invaluable tool, allowing receivers like Sarratt to leverage their speed and agility against defenders.
Anticipation in the Air
As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike will keenly watch for Sarratt and Mendoza to execute this critical play. It’s not just about catching a pass; it’s a dance of chemistry, timing, and trust between a quarterback and a receiver. When it’s the climax of the game, expect Sarratt to emerge, ready to make yet another game-defining reception.
In a landscape punctuated by sheer athleticism and strategic plays, Elijah Sarratt stands as a testament to innovation in football, showing that sometimes, looking to the past can inspire the champions of tomorrow.
Sports
Saints Sports Weekly: CSS Women Upset Ranked Bethel Team – Duluth News Tribune
St. Scholastica Women’s Basketball: A Tale of Resilience and Strategy
Exciting Comeback Against Bethel
In a thrilling showdown at Reif Gym in Duluth, St. Scholastica’s women’s basketball team pulled off an impressive comeback against the No. 21-ranked Bethel University. Trailing by 12 points in the fourth quarter, the Saints surged back to clinch a 65-63 victory. With just 8:59 left on the clock, CSS was down 53-41, but a 10-0 run fueled by Evie Schmitz’s two 3-pointers and Kloey Lind’s close-range buckets ignited the crowd and tied the game at 57 with just under three minutes remaining.
Schmitz was a standout player, scoring 13 of her total 20 points in that dynamic fourth quarter. Her third trey gave the Saints a lead they wouldn’t relinquish, pushing the score to 60-59. Despite a tense finish, with CSS forced to protect a slim lead against an aggressive Royals defense, Schmitz and her teammates held firm, and the Royals couldn’t get a shot off as the clock expired. Ava Haus, contributing significantly, posted a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds, helping CSS improve to an 11-4 overall record and 6-2 in the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC).
Dominance Over Macalester
Just days before their thrilling game against Bethel, the Saints showcased their prowess in a decisive 62-48 victory over Macalester. Leading 39-22 at halftime, St. Scholastica maintained control, demonstrating impressive teamwork and shooting efficiency. Schmitz and Haus each made five 3-pointers, scoring 22 and 19 points respectively, reaffirming their reputation as an offensive powerhouse. This win served as a crucial momentum-builder as they prepared for the upcoming match against Gustavus Adolphus.
A High-Scoring Affair Against Bethel
The men’s basketball team also made waves by defeating Bethel in a commanding fashion, scoring 93 points in a game marked by stellar shooting. The Saints shot over 58% from the field, led by Koy Nelson’s explosive 25 points. Despite an early deficit, CSS found their rhythm and built a substantial halftime lead of 45-32. Jayden Brown and Davion Butler provided vital support with 15 and 18 points, respectively, ensuring the Saints maintained a steady lead throughout the second half.
Women’s Hockey Struggles Against Concordia
While the women’s basketball team celebrated victories, St. Scholastica’s women’s hockey team faced a challenging weekend against Concordia-Moorhead. The Cobbers swept the series at Mars Lakeview Arena, winning both games 5-3 and 5-2. On Friday night, Gabby Gamst’s second goal gave the Saints a brief lead in the third period, but the Cobbers mounted an impressive comeback, scoring three unanswered goals. Makenzie Cole’s efforts in the net, with 34 saves, were commendable, yet it wasn’t enough.
The story repeated itself on Saturday, with the Saints again taking a lead but failing to maintain it as Concordia scored three goals in a four-minute span during the final period. Cole tallied 27 saves, but St. Scholastica was unable to break their losing streak in MIAC play, now sitting at a record of 5-9-1.
Men’s Hockey Challenges on the Road
Meanwhile, the men’s hockey team faced adversity during their road trip to Moorhead. Losing 6-2 on Friday and 4-1 on Saturday, it was a tough outing for the Saints. The team struggled early in Friday’s match, with the Cobbers quickly taking control, extending their lead to 6-1 by halfway through the game. Saturday offered a glimmer of hope as Hunter Hanson scored first, but once again, the Cobbers displayed dominance with four unanswered goals.
As they look ahead, both the women’s and men’s hockey teams will aim to regroup and harness the intense spirit from their basketball counterparts as they prepare for their next challenges.
St. Scholastica’s athletic programs continue to embody resilience, skill, and determination, with hopes of turning the tides in upcoming games.
Sports
Is Blake Corum Playing Tonight? Analyzing Rams RB’s Slow Start Against the Bears
Blake Corum’s Performance: A Deep Dive into His Season and Current Game Status
Blake Corum, the talented running back for the Los Angeles Rams, has shown tremendous skill and tenacity throughout the 2025 NFL season. Currently playing in the playoffs, Corum’s on-field performance has drawn significant attention, especially following his slow start in the divisional round against the Chicago Bears.
Corum’s 2025 Season Overview
Throughout the regular season, Blake Corum emerged as a key player for the Rams, racking up impressive statistics. He tallied 746 rushing yards and contributed seven touchdowns, averaging an efficient 5.1 yards per carry. This kind of production not only amplified his status as a reliable offensive weapon but also placed him among the league’s more productive running backs. His ability to break tackles and navigate through defenses marked him as a vital part of the Rams’ offensive strategies.
Current Game Context Against the Bears
As the Rams face off against the Bears in the divisional round, there’s a palpable excitement surrounding Corum’s involvement. Fans and analysts alike were eager to see how he would capitalize on his regular-season success. However, as the game commenced, it became evident that things were not going as planned for him.
Is Blake Corum Playing Tonight?
Yes, Blake Corum is officially active for tonight’s game. Despite this, his participation has been limited, leading to some concerns among fans about his effectiveness in high-stakes moments. During the Rams’ opening drive, all the team’s offensive touches went to Kyren Williams, who even found the end zone. This shift in focus raises questions about the coaching strategy, particularly in vital playoff scenarios where star players are expected to shine.
Anticipating Corum’s Impact
Even though Corum did not see action during the opening drive, there remains optimism that he will soon step onto the field and make significant contributions. His talent is undeniable, and with the stakes this high, it’s expected that he will soon be utilized to his full potential in crucial offensive plays. Coordinators may have strategic plans to incorporate him into the game as it progresses, leveraging his ability to run effectively against the Bears’ defense.
What’s Next for Blake Corum?
As Corum continues to navigate through this critical game, fans and analysts will be monitoring his every move. Can he shake off the slow start and find opportunities to break tackles or demonstrate his scoring ability? The dynamics between him and the rest of the Rams offense will be pivotal in determining not just the outcome of this game but also Corum’s legacy in this playoff run.
Stay tuned as the game unfolds; the excitement isn’t fading yet. With Corum in the lineup, there’s always the potential for explosive plays that could turn the tide in favor of the Rams.
-
Opinion5 days agoWho Is Really Voting in These Polls? The Shocking Truth Behind America’s Approval Numbers
-
Opinion5 days agoBlueprint for a “Tax-Free America” That Actually Works
-
Finance4 days agoMajor Indices Experience Weekly Declines as Treasury Yields Reach Four-Month High
-
Science5 days agoIt Took 35 Years for T. rex to Reach Full Maturity
-
Sports5 days ago2026 NFL Coaching Update: John Harbaugh Nearing Deal with Giants; Mike Tomlin Not Expected to Coach Next Season
-
Technology1 week agoTop Picks from CES 2026: Editors Select the Best Products and Technologies
-
Politics2 weeks agoElon Musk’s Return to Politics: Why Not Explore a New Hobby Instead? | Arwa Mahdawi
-
Sports3 days agoCleveland Browns Update (1/17): A Wealth of Head Coach Candidates
