Indiana adjusts 2027 football schedule by adding Jacksonville State

Indiana football announced a scheduling change for the 2027 season, dropping UMass to add Jacksonville State. This decision reflects a broader strategy in college football, where Indiana's coach, Curt Cignetti, emphasizes a focus on winning rather than facing tougher opponents in nonconference play. With 20 wins in their last 21 Big Ten games, Indiana remains positioned for a potential College Football Playoff berth. The context surrounding this decision highlights longstanding criticisms of the playoff selection committee's preference for win-loss records over the strength of schedules. The upcoming negotiations regarding playoff expansion could further influence scheduling habits across the sport.

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