Indiana football prepares for 2026 season following national title

Indiana enters the 2026 college football season following a national championship win last year. Head coach Curt Cignetti has moved the focus to a new campaign, which he describes as the program's third chapter. The team faces a 12-game regular-season schedule that includes matchups against North Texas, Howard, Western Kentucky, and Northwestern. Analysts evaluate the program's prospects based on line of scrimmage play, quarterback performance, defensive control, coaching, and homefield advantage. The Hoosiers begin their title defense as they navigate a challenging path, including three road games during the month of October. The schedule features a Big Ten opener against Northwestern, with further road tests scheduled for the coming months.

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