## Move the Sticks: Indiana Head Coach Curt Cignetti on Team’s Undefeated Season
### The Hoosiers’ Resurgence under Cignetti
After a disappointing 2-10 season in 2021, Indiana head coach Curt Cignetti has led the Hoosiers to an impressive 5-0 start in 2022. The turnaround has been fueled by a potent offense and a stingy defense, leaving Cignetti optimistic about his team’s prospects for the rest of the season.
### Offensive Explosion
The Indiana offense has been a revelation under Cignetti, who has implemented a spread attack that has allowed quarterback Connor Bazelak to thrive. Bazelak has thrown for 1,650 yards and 16 touchdowns with just three interceptions, completing 69.5% of his passes.
“Connor has been a great leader for us,” Cignetti said. “He’s making good decisions, and he’s putting the ball where it needs to be. The receivers are doing a great job of getting open and making plays.”
The Hoosiers’ receiving corps has been led by D.J. Matthews Jr., who has 41 receptions for 620 yards and seven touchdowns. Matthew Jones and Javon Swinton have also been productive, combining for 64 catches, 870 yards, and six TDs.
### Defensive Dominance
While the offense has been getting the headlines, the Indiana defense has been equally impressive. The Hoosiers rank among the top 20 nationally in scoring defense, allowing just 17.2 points per game.
“Our defense has been playing really well,” Cignetti said. “They’re making tackles, they’re forcing turnovers, and they’re getting after the quarterback.”
Linebacker Cam Jones has been a standout for the Hoosiers, leading the team with 35 tackles and 3.5 sacks. Defensive back Tiawan Mullen has also been a playmaker, with three interceptions and two forced fumbles.
### Schedule Challenges Ahead
Indiana’s undefeated start has been impressive, but the Hoosiers face a tough schedule ahead. They travel to Cincinnati this weekend to face the undefeated Bearcats, then host No. 2 Ohio State on October 8.
“We’re going to be tested in the next few weeks,” Cignetti said. “But I’m confident in our team. We’ve shown that we can play with anyone.”
### Cignetti’s Vision for the Future
Cignetti believes that the Hoosiers’ success in 2022 is a sign of things to come. He is building a program based on recruiting, player development, and a strong work ethic.
“We’re not going to be a flash in the pan,” Cignetti said. “We’re going to be a consistent winner. We’re going to be a team that people respect.”
### Conclusion
Indiana’s undefeated start has been one of the biggest surprises in college football this season. Coach Curt Cignetti has instilled a winning culture in Bloomington, and he has the Hoosiers believing that they can compete with anyone. With a tough schedule ahead, Indiana will have a chance to prove that their success is no fluke.