How did James Madison players contribute to Indiana's championship?

Thirteen former James Madison players, recruited by Coach Cignetti, formed the core of Indiana's championship-winning team, providing crucial experience and talent.

What is 'Cignetti's Dozen' in Indiana Hoosiers football?

'Cignetti's Dozen' refers to the thirteen former James Madison players who transferred to Indiana under Coach Curt Cignetti, becoming key contributors to their national title.

Did overlooked players find success with the Indiana Hoosiers?

Yes, many of the former James Madison players who joined Indiana were overlooked in high school but achieved championship success with the Hoosiers.

Home / Sports / Coach's Dozen: James Madison Stars Lead Indiana to Title

Coach's Dozen: James Madison Stars Lead Indiana to Title

21 Jan

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Summary

Thirteen former James Madison players formed the core of Indiana's championship team.
Coach Cignetti recruited players he knew to rebuild the Hoosiers program.
These players found a second chance and achieved championship success.

Coach's Dozen: James Madison Stars Lead Indiana to Title

Indiana's improbable championship season was largely built upon a foundation of thirteen former James Madison players, affectionately dubbed "Cignetti's Dozen." Coach Curt Cignetti, who previously coached at James Madison, recruited these familiar faces to his new program with the Hoosiers. This unique strategy aimed to instill a championship culture and accelerate the rebuilding process.

These players, many of whom did not receive significant offers out of high school, found a renewed opportunity to prove themselves. They became crucial to Indiana's undefeated season and eventual national title. Their journey underscores the evolving landscape of college football, where the transfer portal offers pathways for talent to emerge and thrive, regardless of initial rankings.