Indiana University’s head coach Curt Cignetti has been vocal about the emergence of Josh Hoover as the team’s new starting quarterback, emphasizing the strides the sophomore has made since the previous season.
A Benchmark Legacy
Cignetti points to Hoover’s increased confidence and sharper execution, noting that the offense looked markedly better in recent scrimmages compared with the same point last year, when the team struggled in the red zone.
The coach’s assessment comes as the program benchmarks Hoover against the legacy of Fernando Mendoza, IU’s first Heisman Trophy winner, whose final stat line of 18‑of‑31 for 193 yards in a 27‑14 victory set a high bar for any aspiring signal‑caller.
Defensive and Special Teams Battles
At the defensive side of the ball, the battle for the cornerback spot has been delayed by injuries, forcing Cignetti to weigh A.J. Harris against Ryland Gandy before settling on a starter.
Special teams also see a mix of continuity and change; Nico Radicic, the only returning specialist, will anchor the unit, while long snapper Drew Claussen has taken over the role and punters Billy Gowers and Quinn Warren compete for the starting position.
Tyler Morris, who overcame a knee injury, is slated to start at punt returner in the season opener, adding a fresh spark to the special‑teams return game.
Off the field, the NCAA’s evolving eligibility rules have temporarily stalled the potential return of former athletes Stephen Daley and Kellan Wyatt, a development that could affect depth at several positions.
At quarterback, Grant Wilson has secured the No. 2 spot over Tyler Cherry, though Cherry may see action in non‑conference matchups if the schedule permits.
Finally, kickoff specialist Paddy McAteer, a Troy transfer, is expected to dominate that phase of play, having averaged 62.1 yards per return over his career.