Indiana University’s football program made history last season by capturing its first national championship, a feat achieved under second‑year head coach Curt Cignetti after a flawless 16‑0 campaign.
Despite the historic run, a recent poll of college football fans revealed that only 11 % expected the Hoosiers to win the 2026 Big Ten Championship, underscoring widespread doubt about a repeat.
Ohio State emerged as the clear favorite, garnering 42 % of the vote, followed by Oregon at 38 %, while USC, 'Other' and Michigan each accounted for just 3 % or 1 % of the responses.
Fan Sentiment and Odds
The betting markets echo the poll’s skepticism, with Indiana listed at +290 odds to claim the title, sitting alongside Ohio State at +185 and Oregon at +260, while USC’s +1400 odds trail the top three.
Key to the Hoosiers’ prospects will be retaining core players and silencing the doubts that pervade both the fanbase and oddsmakers.
Coach Cignetti’s squad must also navigate the heightened expectations that accompany a sudden rise to national prominence, a challenge that has historically tested even the most dominant teams.