4 Takeaways: Indiana Hoosiers Closing In on Big Ten Title Game After USC Win

Indiana keeps finding a way

The 2026 Hoosiers have not been as efficient offensively as last year’s national title-winning team. Their defense, however, may be even stronger, and Curt Cignetti’s side keeps producing results.

Indiana is 9-1 overall and 6-1 in Big Ten play. The win over USC leaves the Hoosiers with a one-game advantage over Ohio State in the conference race.

Quarterback play had mixed results

Wilson also had uneven moments, including an underthrown pass on Indiana’s first play from scrimmage. Becker finished with three catches for 75 yards and a touchdown.

USC missed its chance

USC had opportunities to make a statement but made too many mistakes and failed to finish drives. Its best win this fall was described as either Penn State or Washington, underscoring the challenge of building its résumé.

Lincoln Riley’s team fell short in Bloomington. The story says Riley may have one more chance to strengthen his position after USC plays Maryland, assuming the Trojans win that game.

Title-game path remains open

Indiana has Washington and Purdue remaining. The trip to Seattle is presented as less daunting because Washington has also struggled to produce offense. UCLA is 10-0 for the first time since 1998, with Michigan and USC still on its schedule. A potential Indiana-UCLA Big Ten title game would pair Cignetti against the coach who replaced him at James Madison, though that matchup remains hypothetical.