Undefeated Curtis Cignetti reveals Indiana's secret to facing adversity: "We're very process-oriented"
Curt Cignetti has been one of the most fascinating stories in all of college football. He spent three years as an assistant under Nick Saben at Alabama back in the 2000s. After five incredible years with the James Madison Dukes, he took on the Indiana job and led them to an undefeated season so far.
Changing the path
Indiana have not had a historically great football program in recent years. They went 33-49 under their previous head coach, Tom Allen. Cignetti has turned them around instantaneously and how!
"We're very process-oriented," Cignetti emphasized. "One play at a time, six seconds a player, a play has a life and a history of its own, fast, physical, relentless, smart, disciplined, poised, not affected by success or failure, onto the next play. Right?"
Cignetti has led the Hoosiers to several dominant wins throughout the season and is putting together what should be a clear path to the Coach of the Year discussion.
According to some, Indiana have not faced any real adversity, playing an easier out-of-conference schedule and avoiding the top dogs of the Big Ten Conference. Cignetti recognizes that, but does not want his team to bat an eye.
"We haven't been behind yet," Cignetti acknowldeged. "How are you gonna respond when you're down two scores? Three scores? I prepare (the players) for that with my messaging in the winter, spring ball, fall camp. At some point, you're gonna be behind, no big deal. The only thing that counts is where you are at the end."
Indiana will have the opportunity to keep their undefeated streak going against the Washington Huskies on Saturday at 12:00 p.m. ET. The longer the Hoosiers stay undefeated, the stronger their playoff hopes get.
Quarterback Kurtis Rourke has thrown for over 300 yards in three of the past five games and will look to continue his excellent run against what has largely been a poor Huskies defense, allowing 40 points against the Iowa Hawkeyes.