No one expected Indiana to even sniff winning a national championship in 2025, but Curt Cignetti found a way to put it all together and claim one of the most improbable titles in recent memory. With every outcome on the table, Cignetti has the roster to repeat this upcoming year. But these three things must come to fruition if that’s going to happen.

The offensive line and run game must reload without missing a beat

Indiana’s offensive line and running back room were heavily depleted by departures to the NFL. They notably lost running backs Roman Hemby and Kaelon Black, as well as center Pat Coogan.

That kind of talent drain would cripple most programs, but the Hoosiers have reasons for optimism. Carter Smith returns, and multiple experienced starters are back in the fold. This offensive line could bounce back faster than outsiders expect.

The run game was a major asset for Indiana in 2025, with Hemby and Black combining for over 2,100 rushing yards. But it needs to remain one. New faces in the backfield like Turbo Richard will have to step up, but the surrounding infrastructure should allow for a smooth transition. If the offensive line rebounds and reloads, the Hoosiers will not miss a step on the ground.

The pass rush has a chance to be even better than in 2025

The most exciting development of Indiana’s offseason might be what happened on the defensive side of the ball. The Hoosiers added three big-name pass rushers through the transfer portal who are arguably more talented than any edge rusher Cignetti has had at his disposal.

That group includes Chiddi Obiazor and Tobi Osunsomni from Kansas State, as well as Josh Burnham from Notre Dame. All three bring experience and high-end physical traits to a defense that was already dominant. With Mario Landino and Tyrique Tucker providing interior pressure, the potential for this defensive front is enormous. If these three new additions can elevate the pass rush, the rest of the defense will play at an even higher level.

Josh Hoover is the most important piece of the puzzle

This is the most obvious and most important factor.

Josh Hoover is the key to Indiana getting back to a national championship. He has the talent to possibly be a first-round pick, but he has to improve upon his decision-making and cut down on the turnovers that plagued him at TCU.  In his three seasons as the Horned Frogs’ starter, he threw 33 picks against 71 touchdowns.  That’s not a very good ratio, to speak the obvious.  Hoover also led the Big 12 in interceptions last year with 13. 

To his benefit, Hoover has Mike Shanahan coaching him, who produced the most efficient offense in the country over the past two years.

Hoover has what it takes to be an elite player. If he shows even some signs of improvement in that area and takes care of the football better, Indiana’s offense could possibly be even better than it was last year.

Nobody should be counting Indiana out. The talent is there, the coaching staff has proven it can develop players, and the transfer portal additions address real needs. If these three things come to fruition, I absolutely see the Hoosiers being right back in the thick of the national championship conversation.