Stewart Mandel of The Athletic has placed the Indiana Hoosiers at the summit of his post‑spring Top 25 rankings for the 2026 college football season, naming them the No. 1 team.
A New Era for Indiana
The Hoosiers capped the previous campaign with a perfect 16‑0 record, capturing the Big Ten Championship, the Rose Bowl, the Peach Bowl and the CFP National Championship Game, a feat that cemented their status as national champions.
Head coach Curt Cignetti, who posted a 27‑2 record in his first two seasons, orchestrated that historic run and now faces the task of rebuilding after a wave of departures.
Eight key contributors, including Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza, have entered the NFL Draft, leaving the offense in flux as new pieces are integrated.
Transfer quarterback Josh Hoover, a TCU alumnus, is slated to start, while the offense also welcomes new pieces such as running back D'Angelo Ponds and wide receiver Aiden Fisher, both of whom bring experience from previous programs.
On defense, linebacker Rolijah Hardy will anchor the unit, supported by standout contributors Aiden Fisher, Bray Lynch, and Charlie Becker, while secondary standout D'Angelo Ponds adds depth. Veteran assistant Sonny Dykes, known for his offensive acumen, is expected to play a key role in shaping the new scheme.
Despite the turnover, the program’s momentum is evident in other polls; Curt Cignetti jumped from No. 21 to No. 1 in CBS Sports’ Power 4 head‑coach rankings, even as the team slipped to No. 9 in the latest post‑spring composite rankings.
Fans and analysts alike are watching closely as the Hoosiers aim to translate their championship pedigree into another dominant season.