Curt Cignetti's Timeout Strategy Leaves Sports Media World Absolutely Baffled After Indiana's Overtime Win

Clock Runs Late in Regulation

The score was tied 13–13 in the final minute as Minnesota drove near midfield. After the Gophers were stopped on third down, coach P.J. Fleck faced a choice: go for it on fourth-and-8, try a field goal from about 60 yards, or punt.

Indiana had two timeouts, but Cignetti did not use one as Minnesota considered its options. The clock fell to 24 seconds before Fleck called timeout and sent out his field goal unit. Kicker Luke Drzewiecki made the 60-yard attempt, putting Minnesota ahead 16–13.

Indiana Scrambles to Tie

Indiana had 19 seconds and two timeouts to answer. Quarterback Grant Wilson, who had replaced Josh Hoover at halftime, connected with Charlie Becker to move the ball past midfield.

The clock stopped briefly after the first down, then restarted when the ball was set. Cignetti again held his timeouts, prompting criticism from sports commentators and viewers. The article reports that Minnesota’s final offensive play of regulation came with 1:01 remaining, while Indiana finished regulation without using either timeout.

McAteer Forces Overtime

Indiana kicker Paddy McAteer made a 60-yard field goal to tie the game and send it to overtime. The Hoosiers scored a touchdown on their first offensive play in overtime, then made the defensive stop needed to secure the win. Afterward, Cignetti told CBS reporter Jenny Dell that Indiana had made several mistakes and said the team finally woke up with 19 seconds left.

Cignetti Explains His Choices

Cignetti said he might have stopped the clock if Minnesota’s kick had been from closer range. He explained that he let time run after seeing the attempt would be 60 yards from the hash. On the later clock decision, Cignetti said he thought the clock had fully stopped because Becker went out of bounds.