Curt Cignetti Sees Real Upset Potential for Indiana Hoosiers Against Ohio State

As Week 13 of the Big Ten football season approaches, Curt Cignetti, head coach of the Indiana Hoosiers, is making a bold claim ahead of his team’s matchup against the second-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes. While most college football pundits are expecting a dominant victory from Ohio State, Cignetti believes that Indiana has a legitimate upset potential, which could shake up the College Football Playoff race and make a statement for the Hoosiers.

### **Indiana’s Underestimated Opportunity**

Indiana enters this weekend’s game with a 3-8 record, sitting near the bottom of the Big Ten standings. In contrast, Ohio State is undefeated and has consistently been ranked among the top teams in the country, with its eyes firmly set on a spot in the College Football Playoff. Despite these stark differences, Cignetti sees a path for his team to pull off the unthinkable.

“We’ve been under the radar all season,” Cignetti said in a press conference this week. “Ohio State is a great team, but this is a game of opportunity. We’ve been through the fire in the Big Ten all year, and I think we’re ready to take advantage of any mistake they make. If we execute and stay disciplined, anything can happen.”

While Indiana has struggled this season, Cignetti pointed out that the Hoosiers’ defense has shown resilience, particularly in their recent games against top-tier Big Ten opponents. The defense has been a bright spot for Indiana, with linebacker Aaron Casey and safety Noah Pierre leading a unit that has been competitive despite the team’s overall record. Cignetti believes that if his defense can contain Ohio State’s high-powered offense, the Hoosiers will have a shot to stay in the game and potentially capitalize on turnovers or mistakes.

### **Ohio State’s Dominance and Focus**

Ohio State, led by head coach Ryan Day, enters the contest with a flawless 10-0 record. The Buckeyes have been dominant all season, with quarterback Kyle McCord orchestrating an explosive offense and wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. emerging as one of the top playmakers in college football. Defensively, Ohio State boasts one of the most stifling units in the nation, which has made it difficult for teams to sustain long drives.

Despite the Buckeyes’ overwhelming talent, Cignetti’s optimism stems from the fact that no team is invincible. Indiana has a chance to make this game competitive if they can slow down McCord and Harrison, forcing Ohio State into uncomfortable situations.

“We’ve seen teams get caught off guard in big games before,” Cignetti said. “Our guys aren’t intimidated by the rankings or the names on the other side of the field. We’ve got to keep it close, control the clock, and create turnovers. If we can do that, we’ll be right in the game.”

### **Key Matchups to Watch**

For Indiana to pull off the upset, several key matchups will be crucial. The Hoosiers’ defense must find a way to disrupt McCord’s rhythm while containing Harrison Jr., who has been a nightmare for opposing defenses. Defensive line play will also be critical in stopping Ohio State’s dynamic running game.

On offense, Indiana needs to be efficient and avoid turnovers. Quarterback Brendan Sorsby will need to be calm under pressure and make plays when opportunities arise. Running back Jaylin Lucas could play a pivotal role in keeping the chains moving and maintaining possession, which would limit Ohio State’s time on offense.

### **Big Ten Week 13 Picks**

While most expect Ohio State to emerge victorious, Cignetti’s Hoosiers are certainly not being overlooked entirely. The Big Ten is known for its unpredictable outcomes, and Week 13 promises to be no different. In a season filled with surprises, this game could provide one more.

Many analysts still predict a comfortable win for Ohio State, but a significant upset by Indiana would send shockwaves through the conference and the College Football Playoff race. Cignetti’s belief in his team’s ability to challenge the Buckeyes could be the spark the Hoosiers need to finish their season on a high note, even if it’s not enough to secure a bowl game.

As Week 13 kicks off, all eyes will be on this Big Ten showdown to see if Indiana can pull off the unthinkable and prove that in college football, anything is possible.