Indiana Hoosiers Bring National Title Pedigree to Rutgers Homecoming Clash
Head coach Curt Cignetti’s squad, led by quarterback Josh Hoover, arrives at SHI Stadium with an undefeated record and a defence that led the FBS in sacks last season.
Rutgers University prepares to host the Indiana Hoosiers for a Big Ten conference football match at SHI Stadium, serving as the Scarlet Knights' homecoming game. The fixture features the reigning national champions, Indiana, who completed an undefeated season to claim the title in January 2026. Rutgers enters the contest as a significant underdog following a recent loss to Oregon.
Indiana’s squad is led by head coach Curt Cignetti and quarterback Josh Hoover, who transferred from TCU after the departure of former starter Fernando Mendoza to the NFL. The Hoosiers boast a strong roster, including Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year Carter Smith and a defence that led the FBS in sacks last season. Rutgers relies on quarterback KJ Duff and running back Antwan Raymond to compete against the champion side.
The game is scheduled for an 8 PM kickoff and serves as Rutgers' homecoming game. Indiana enters the contest as the reigning national champions, having completed an undefeated season to win the title in January 2026. Rutgers is considered a significant underdog for this fixture.
Hoover recorded 3,472 passing yards and 29 touchdowns last season, though he threw 13 interceptions and is noted as not being very mobile. Indiana’s offensive line features returning starter Carter Smith, who won Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year. The Hoosiers’ backfield will likely utilise a committee approach, featuring Turbo Richard (transferred from Boston College) and sophomore Khobie Martin, alongside returning rushers Roman Hemby and Kaelon Black.
Key returning receivers include Charlie Becker and Nick Marsh (transferred from Michigan State), with Shazz Preston (transferred from Tulane) completing the starting trio. Indiana’s defence returns a strong front seven, including defensive tackles Tyrique Tucker and Mario Landino, and defensive ends Chiddi Obiazor and Tobi Osunsami (transferred from Kansas State).
The Hoosiers led the FBS in sacks (46) and tackles for loss (129) last season. Linebackers Rolijah Hardy and Isaiah Jones return to support the defensive line. The secondary features cornerback AJ Harris (transferred from Penn State/Georgia) and strong safety Preston Zachman (transferred from Wisconsin). Kicker Nico Radicic has a 28-30 record on field goal attempts since 2024.
Indiana’s schedule begins with a game against North Texas, followed by matches against Howard and Western Kentucky before their Big Ten opener against Northwestern. This non-conference slate sets the stage for their conference play, which includes a clash with Rutgers at SHI Stadium.
