Indiana Hoosiers head coach Curt Cignetti is forging ahead with fall camp, providing insights into the team's progress and making key adjustments, particularly concerning quarterback Fernando Mendoza. As the Hoosiers gear up for the 2025 season, Cignetti emphasizes a fresh start, building from the ground up, despite the program's historic 2024 season.
Cignetti's approach to fall camp revolves around internal preparation, evaluation, and development, with a keen eye on the upcoming season opener against Old Dominion. He addressed the team about the capabilities of Sun Belt teams, highlighting their history of upsetting Power Four programs.
After the first week of practice, Cignetti expressed satisfaction with the team's growth. He noted that the players were initially "gassed" due to the heat and humidity but showed better energy on the second day and made significant progress on the third. Cignetti stresses the importance of daily improvement and consistency, particularly for the younger players who are managing a large amount of new information.
A significant focus of the camp is on Fernando Mendoza, the highly-touted transfer quarterback from California. Mendoza's talent has generated considerable buzz, with some analysts predicting a first-round NFL Draft selection. Cignetti highlighted Mendoza's experience, size, mobility, quick release, and arm strength. He also acknowledged areas where Mendoza needs to improve but expressed confidence in his development.
Mendoza's transition to Indiana has been aided by his work with senior wide receiver Elijah Sarratt. Sarratt praised Mendoza's arm talent, noting his anticipation and overall smoothness. Sarratt also noted Mendoza's ability to make plays with his feet and his commitment to extra reps and film study.
Greg McElroy has voiced his confidence in Mendoza, emphasizing his mobility as a key factor that could unlock new dimensions in Indiana's offense. Mendoza's mobility contrasts with the limitations faced by Kurtis Rourke, whose mobility was affected by an ACL injury. McElroy believes that Mendoza's skillset will prevent any drop-off in the team's performance despite Rourke's departure.
Mendoza's impact extends beyond the field, as evidenced by his inclusion on the Wuerffel Trophy Watch List and the AFCA Good Works Team. These honors recognize his commitment to community service and academic excellence. Mendoza's initiative, "Mendoza Burrito," raised over $11,000 for the National MS Society in honor of his mother.
While Mendoza is the clear starter, the Hoosiers are also focused on developing depth at the quarterback position. Redshirt freshman Alberto Mendoza is showing promise, and the team aims to give him some game experience during the non-conference games.
Cignetti's coaching staff has remained largely intact from the previous year, providing continuity and stability. The team also boasts key returning players on defense, including Mikail Kamara, Aiden Fisher, and D'Angelo Ponds. Veteran transfers have been added to bolster the defense, including Hosea Wheeler, Dominique Ratcliff, Stephen Daley, Kellan Wyatt, Ryland Gandy, Amariyun Knighten, Louis Moore, and Devan Boykin.
Indiana enters the 2025 season ranked No. 19 in the preseason USA Today Coaches Poll. The team's success in 2024 has raised expectations, but Cignetti remains focused on the process of building a strong foundation and blocking out external noise. The Hoosiers face a challenging schedule, with games against ranked opponents such as Illinois, Penn State, Oregon and Iowa.
