"This team earned it": Curt Cignetti hits back at critics questioning Indiana's credibility to make CFP
In his first season as Indiana's head coach, Curt Cignetti led the Hoosiers to the College Football Playoff. However, their campaign ended with a 27-17 loss to Notre Dame in the first round on Friday night. Despite the defeat, Cignetti defended his team’s inclusion in the playoff field, emphasizing that Indiana earned its recognition.
“Well, this team earned it,” Cignetti told the media. “The right to be here, you know. I’m not sure we proved tonight to a lot of people.” (7:45)
The Hoosiers’ only regular-season loss came against powerhouse Ohio State. This historic campaign secured them the No. 10 seed in the CFP's inaugural 12-team format.
Cignetti’s success didn’t go unnoticed, earning him the Eddie Robinson National Coach of the Year award from the Football Writers Association of America.
Cignetti shared his thoughts following the defeat
Curt Cignetti addressed the media after Indiana's elimination, expressing both disappointment and perspective.
“All good things come to an end," Cignetti said. ... "I have a lot of guys hurting in there, but a part of life is learning how to deal with disappointment the proper way and come back a stronger person because of the experience. You never get everything you want in life. That’s how life is.” (0:25)
He also discussed the challenges of balancing playoff preparation with recruiting responsibilities, emphasizing the unique demands placed on teams competing in the CFP.
“The one thing about the way the calendar is set right now is if you do make the College Football Playoff, you’re kind of penalized in the portal recruiting area because we didn’t have official visits this week because I wanted 100 percent focus in preparation for Notre Dame,” he said. (8:20)
Former Super Bowl champion slammed Hoosiers after tough loss
NFL legend Rob Gronkowski didn’t hold back in his critique of Indiana's performance.
“Indiana should have never been in the playoffs,” Gronkowski wrote on X. “[Strength of schedule] is terrible. I see why that plays a big part, especially when factoring in an SEC team. I understand it’s a tough call. Funny thing about this game, Notre Dame is just a better Indiana.”
While the Hoosiers’ playoff debut ended in disappointment for them, it remains a landmark achievement for the program with an 11-1 record this season. Under Curt Cignetti’s leadership, Indiana has set a new standard, laying the groundwork for future success amidst the criticism.