What Curt Cignetti is doing at Indiana isn’t just impressive-it’s transformative. In a program long defined by mediocrity and historical footnotes, Cignetti has brought swagger, structure, and, most importantly, wins. And while he’s quick to credit his coaching roots, particularly his time under Nick Saban at Alabama, make no mistake-this is Cignetti’s show now.
Cignetti spent five seasons on Saban’s staff at Alabama, and he’s not shy about acknowledging how much that experience shaped him. “Coach Saban was a real important part of my journey,” Cignetti recently said.
“I learned a lot from him in terms of organization and standards. I wouldn’t be where I am today without my time under Nick.”
That kind of praise carries weight, especially coming from someone as direct and no-nonsense as Cignetti.
Before landing in Bloomington, Cignetti took the long road through college football’s less glamorous neighborhoods. He led three smaller programs, most notably James Madison, where he compiled a 52-9 record over five seasons.
That kind of consistency doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built on discipline, preparation, and a clear identity-traits that echo his time in Tuscaloosa.
But while Saban’s fingerprints are on Cignetti’s coaching DNA, the Indiana head coach has carved out his own voice-and it’s a loud one. Since arriving in Bloomington, he’s made headlines with bold statements and unapologetic energy.
His most famous soundbite? A mic-drop moment on National Signing Day when asked how he sells his program to recruits: “It’s pretty simple.
I win. Google me.”
That quote wasn’t a one-off. Shortly after being introduced as Indiana’s new head coach, Cignetti grabbed the mic at an IU basketball game and lit a fire under the fan base.
“Purdue sucks… so does Michigan and Ohio State,” he said, triggering a roar from the crowd. That kind of brashness might rub some people the wrong way, but for a football program that’s spent most of its existence in the Big Ten basement, it was a jolt of adrenaline.
And here’s the thing-it’s working.
Indiana is in the middle of the most successful two-year stretch in its football history. Before Cignetti, the Hoosiers’ best back-to-back run came in the 1940s.
Their lone Rose Bowl appearance came in 1967, surrounded by losing seasons. Now, they’re not just back in Pasadena-they’re doing it with purpose, confidence, and a head coach who refuses to play second fiddle to anyone.
Cignetti’s approach isn’t about being liked. It’s about changing the culture.
He’s not afraid to ruffle feathers, and he’s certainly not worried about making friends in opposing fan bases-especially not Alabama’s. If Indiana pulls off a win in the Rose Bowl Playoff Quarterfinal, don’t expect Cignetti to tiptoe around the moment.
Even if he praises the Crimson Tide, the fire he’s brought to Bloomington-and the possibility of knocking off his old program-will be more than enough to make him a villain in Tuscaloosa.
But that’s the thing about Cignetti: he’s not trying to be the hero or the villain. He’s trying to win. And right now, Indiana is doing just that.