Hoosiers Roll MSU, Eyes on Red-Hot UCLA

Shannon Griffith Lead Football Analysts TheHoosier.com
The Indiana Hoosiers made a statement on Homecoming, dismantling Michigan State 38–10 in front of a packed Memorial Stadium. With the victory, Curt Cignetti’s squad climbed to #2 in the national rankings, the highest mark in program history.
Quarterback Fernando Mendoza once again showcased why his name is firmly in the Heisman conversation, delivering another efficient performance that combined poise in the pocket with playmaking ability downfield. His leadership continues to spark a Hoosier offense that has relied heavily on the arm of its quarterback, while a trio of receivers — Sarratt, Cooper, and Williams — have stepped into the spotlight as reliable weapons on the perimeter.
Defensively, Indiana once again proved its toughness up front, holding Michigan State to under 100 rushing yards. However, the Spartans found success through the air, passing for 293 yards, a number that will need tightening up as the competition stiffens. While the Hoosiers didn’t create turnovers in this game, they controlled the line of scrimmage, forced the Spartans into long-yardage situations, and kept them from ever mounting serious momentum.
Now, the focus shifts to Bloomington this Saturday, where the Hoosiers welcome UCLA, one of the hottest teams in the Big Ten. The Bruins have rattled off three straight wins since parting ways with DeShaun Foster, and under new interim coach Tim Skipper leadership they’ve found new life.
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The Bruins are led by quarterback Nico Iamaleava (#9), a dual-threat who has thrown for over 1,100 yards with nine touchdowns while also rushing for more than 300. His top targets include Kwazi Gilmer, Titus Mokiao-Atimalala and Mikey Matthews, all capable of creating big plays. Defensively, edge rusher Devin Aupiu and linebacker JonJon Vaughns have been disruptive, while kicker Mateen Bhaghani provides stability in the kicking game.
The matchup between the #2-ranked Hoosiers and the surging Bruins has the makings of a defining Big Ten showdown. Memorial Stadium will once again be the stage, and with Mendoza pushing toward Heisman heights, Indiana will look to prove that their climb up the polls is no fluke.
Stay tuned to TheHoosier.com for continued coverage, including Thursday’s full game preview of Indiana vs. UCLA.
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