Indiana University's football program entered the 2026 season with high hopes after capturing both the Big Ten title and the College Football Playoff national championship last year, and early indicators suggest the Hoosiers are poised to remain among the conference’s elite.
Preseason Media Polls Forecast a Third‑Place Finish
The USA Today Sports Network and Cleveland.com each surveyed national reporters to produce preseason rankings, and both outlets placed the Hoosiers in third position behind Ohio State and Oregon. The consensus reflects a belief that Indiana’s recent dominance will carry forward into the new campaign.
Ohio State received the top spot in both polls, while Oregon was projected to finish second. The rankings set the stage for a competitive Big Ten race, with the Hoosiers expected to contend for the conference crown once again.
Individual accolades were also announced, with linebacker Rolijah Hardy earning preseason Big Ten defensive player of the year honors and quarterback Josh Hoover named preseason Big Ten newcomer of the year. Their recognitions underscore the team’s depth and talent.
The preseason All‑Big Ten team featured a quartet of Hoosiers — wide receiver Charlie Becker, offensive lineman Carter Smith, defensive lineman Tyrique Tucker, and linebacker Isaiah Jones — alongside defensive back Amare Ferrell and kicker Nico Radicic. Their inclusion highlights the program’s widespread impact across units.
Additional Forecasts and Historical Context
Earlier in the summer, analyst Phil Steele had projected Indiana to finish third, a prediction echoed by Athlon Sports and Lindy’s Sports, which also placed the Hoosiers in the same slot. Those forecasts align with the more recent polls, reinforcing the narrative of steady upward momentum.
The convergence of multiple reputable sources suggests that the Hoosiers’ championship pedigree and strong returning roster have translated into cautious optimism among media voters. As the season approaches, the team’s ability to meet or exceed these expectations will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.