The Indiana Hoosiers encountered disappointment Friday night as they lost to the Notre Dame Fighting Irish 27-17, marking the end of their remarkable 2024 College Football season.
Stepping onto the field for the first round of the College Football Playoff, Indiana finished their season at 11-2, declining from the high hopes they had cultivated during the season. Head coach Curt Cignetti walked away from the post-game press conference carrying the weight of disappointment but also the pride of achievement.
“All good things come to an end. And when you're my age, you've seen it all,” Cignetti said after the game. “And I have a lot of guys hurting in there, but part of life is learning how to deal with disappointment the proper way and come back stronger.”
This season was significant for the Hoosiers, who turned around from their previous year’s 3-9 record, boosting excitement among fans and players alike. Acknowledging the significance of this historic season, Cignetti remarked, “You are what your record says you are. So, 11-2. Tied for second in the Big Ten. Made the College Football Playoff and packed the stadium.”
For senior defensive tackle James Carpenter, whose six-year career culminated with this game, the loss and its aftermath were bittersweet. Carpenter reflected on the hard work the team put forth throughout the season. “No one thought we'd be here. A lot of doubters, a lot of haters. For us to make this run, it’s been surreal,” Carpenter stated.
While Indiana fought valiantly, the Irish initially took control of the game, scoring without significant interruption until late. Carpenter played through the pain of costly mistakes against Notre Dame but remained focused on his performance. Despite receiving penalties for overzealous tackles, he ended the game with impressive stats: seven tackles, one sack, two tackles for loss, and four quarterback pressures. “Do I fault him for making mistakes? No,” defensive coordinator Bryant Haines praised Carpenter’s strong work ethic. “That guy is going to play as hard as he can possibly play every single snap.”
Although the loss stung, the Hoosiers maintained their composure and fought back, scoring two touchdowns late to narrow the gap. Cignetti commended the resilience of his players: “And I am happy our guys didn’t give up and pounded those two scores.”
Not everyone was impressed outside of Hoosier Nation. Social media commentary from sports pundits mixed critiques of Indiana’s performance with reflections on the broader College Football Playoff experience, often at Indiana’s expense. “This entire playoff is experimental. Things will change,” stated commentator Colin Cowherd, who expressed skepticism about Indiana's presence at the playoff. Comment from Sean McDonough labeled the game “a little bit of a dud,” which did not go unnoticed, with others expressing disappointment at the outcome.
Yet amid doubts, Indiana's supporters still held firm. Center Mike Katic, who recognized the tumultuous past of Indiana football, noted the significance of the 2024 season. “I think we changed the way people think about Indiana football,” he said. Katic celebrated the closeness of the team and the sacrifices made by every member. “Just a group of guys who came to work every day and left everything out there,” he said, reflecting his pride.
The loss to Notre Dame marks the end of their season, but the future is brimming with potential. The Indiana football program is actively preparing for the transfer portal as they eye new talent to maintain the momentum built this year.
“Every year you’ve got to start over now,” Cignetti remarked, acknowledging the shifts inherent to college football. Following the recent defeat, the Hoosiers have begun hosting players from the transfer portal, trying to bolster their roster with fresh talent swiftly.
Notable players reportedly under consideration include former Maryland running back Roman Hemby and former Penn State quarterback Beau Pribula. Hemby, boasting impressive statistics during his time at Maryland, has been touted for his capability on the field. For quarterback Pribula, his dual-threat capability will add depth to the Hoosier offense as they adjust for the loss of starter Tayven Jackson.
Despite the wounds of their recent defeat, players and staff remain optimistic. Carpenter stated, “This program is only going up. Coach Cig is just getting started here. He wins. He’s going to get it done.”
The aftermath of Indiana's playoff run serves as both reflection and stepping stone. The Hoosiers may walk away with the pain of defeat, but as Cignetti suggests, they are merely laying the groundwork for future opportunities. “So, set the foundation for hopefully what's to come,” he said. “This isn't the end; it's just the beginning.”
Fans will have to wait to see how IU adapts and grows from this experience, but there is hope and excitement as the football program aims for even higher peaks moving forward.
