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New-Look Indiana Set to Face FIU in Curt Cignetti’s Coaching Debut
Indiana is kicking off a new era under first-year head coach Curt Cignetti as they host Florida International University (FIU) on Saturday afternoon in Bloomington, Indiana. While Cignetti has ambitious long-term goals for the Hoosiers, his immediate focus is on securing a win in his debut.
The wait is over.
— Indiana Football (@IndianaFootball) August 31, 2024
📺: @BigTenNetwork
📻: https://t.co/y9CpYv9lAh pic.twitter.com/yEhwU7QRqd
Cignetti’s Challenge at Indiana
Cignetti steps in to revitalize an Indiana program that struggled under former head coach Tom Allen, finishing with a 9-27 record over the past three seasons. However, Cignetti brings a proven track record from his successful stint at James Madison, where he led the Dukes to an impressive 52-9 record and their first-ever bowl appearance in the 2023 Armed Forces Bowl.
Despite the high expectations, Cignetti is focused on the here and now, emphasizing the importance of taking things one game at a time.
“I don’t look at it that way,” Cignetti said when asked if Saturday’s game could set the tone for the Hoosiers’ future. “This is the opponent. I’m spending every second of my day with a sense of urgency trying to help put us in the best position to be as good as we can be.”
Key Matchup: Indiana Defense vs. Keyone Jenkins
To ensure a successful debut, Indiana will need to keep a close eye on FIU’s dynamic quarterback Keyone Jenkins. Jenkins had a promising freshman season, throwing for 2,414 yards and 11 touchdowns while also adding six rushing touchdowns. However, his 11 interceptions highlight some inconsistency.
“The offense, I’d say they’re feeding off my energy right now,” Jenkins said. “The more I go up, the more they go up, so I just try to keep the intensity level high. … We’re rolling right now, so that’s one thing I can say.”
Indiana’s defense will need to step up, particularly in containing Jenkins’ ability to make plays both through the air and on the ground.
Indiana’s Quarterback Situation
Indiana has yet to officially name their starting quarterback, but Kurtis Rourke, a transfer from Ohio, is the likely candidate. Rourke threw for 2,207 yards and 11 touchdowns last season while only being intercepted five times. His experience and calm under pressure will be key as the Hoosiers look to start the season strong.
Series History and Game Outlook
Indiana leads the all-time series against FIU 3-0. As the Hoosiers look to establish a new identity under Cignetti, Saturday’s game provides a prime opportunity to set the tone for the season. With FIU’s explosive offense led by Jenkins and Indiana’s determination to begin the Cignetti era with a victory, this matchup promises to be an exciting and competitive contest.
