Indiana University recently decided to cancel its upcoming football series against in-state rival Notre Dame. The teams were originally set to face off in non-conference games during the 2030 and 2031 seasons.
Cignetti demands advantage
Head coach Curt Cignetti offered a bold explanation when asked about dropping the Fighting Irish from the schedule. He took a direct jab at Notre Dame’s independent status demanding that any future matchup favor his program.
During an appearance on the Big Ten Network, he stated, “I’d like to play Notre Dame. They ought to come to our place twice and we’ll go there once, since they’re not in a conference.”
History favors Irish
Despite Cignetti’s tough talk, critics argue that Indiana is avoiding a powerhouse. Notre Dame holds a dominant 24-1-5 record all-time against the Hoosiers.
Their last meeting occurred in the first round of the 2024 College Football Playoff, where Notre Dame comfortably defeated Indiana 27-17.
Future schedule shifts
Indiana’s decision to back out of the agreement left an opening on Notre Dame’s future slate. Shortly after the cancellation was made public, Notre Dame used the open slot to restore its long-standing rivalry series with USC.
Meanwhile, Indiana appears focused on adjusting its non-conference games to lean on more favorable home matchups.
