BLOOMINGTON — The Indiana Hoosiers football team has soared to an unprecedented No. 2 national ranking in both the Associated Press (AP) Top 25 Poll and the US LBM Coaches Poll for Week 9, marking the highest spot in program history.
The Hoosiers (7-0, 4-0 Big Ten) moved up one spot after a decisive 38-13 victory over Michigan State on Saturday, capitalizing on the loss by former No. 2 Miami. Indiana, led by head coach Curt Cignetti, received six first-place votes in the AP Poll.
Week 9 Associated Press Top 25 Poll (Top 5)
| Rank | Team | Record |
| 1 | Ohio State | 7-0 |
| 2 | Indiana | 7-0 |
| 3 | Texas A&M | 7-0 |
| 4 | Alabama | 6-1 |
| 5 | Georgia | 6-1 |
The rise to No. 2 is a significant marker of legitimacy for an Indiana program that is now 7-0 for the second consecutive season. Their resume-padding victories include a road win over a then-No. 3 Oregon team and other Big Ten wins against Illinois and Iowa.
The historic ranking puts the Hoosiers in a strong position as the season progresses. Redshirt junior quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who has emerged as a Heisman Trophy contender, emphasized that the team remains focused on the field despite the hype. Mendoza said the team is focused on “one game at a time”.
Noteworthy Context and Upcoming Schedule
- Historic Feat: Indiana’s previous highest ranking was No. 3, which the team achieved just the week prior after its road victory over Oregon. Before the 2025 season, the Hoosiers had never been ranked higher than No. 4 (achieved in 1945 and 1967).
- The Big Ten Race: Indiana remains tied with No. 1 Ohio State atop the conference standings. If both teams win out, they are currently on track for a colossal No. 1 vs. No. 2 Big Ten Championship game.
- Next Up: The Hoosiers return to Memorial Stadium on Saturday to face UCLA (3-4, 3-1 Big Ten) at noon ET. The game has attracted national attention, with FOX’s pre-game show, Big Noon Kickoff, broadcasting live from Bloomington.
The Hoosiers will not face another team currently ranked or receiving votes until the postseason, making the game against the unranked Bruins a key challenge in managing expectations.
