Hoosiers Set for Brass Spittoon Clash with Michigan State as Cignetti Signs New 8-Year Deal

Coach Shannon Griffith Lead Football Analysts TheHoosier.com
The Indiana Hoosiers enter Week 8 of the 2025 season riding unprecedented momentum. Ranked No. 3 in the nation, Curt Cignetti’s squad has positioned itself as a legitimate Big Ten and national contender. This weekend, the Hoosiers battle Michigan State for the Brass Spittoon, but the news off the field may be just as important as what happens on it.
Cignetti Stays in Bloomington
Indiana University and head coach Curt Cignetti have agreed to a new 8-year contract worth an average of $11.6 million annually. The deal silences speculation about Penn State’s coaching vacancy and ensures the architect of IU’s rise will remain in Bloomington for the foreseeable future.
“I couldn’t be more proud to be a Hoosiers and I plan on retiring a Hoosier” Cignetti said on video released on social media.
The deal positions Cignetti among the highest-paid coaches in college football, a clear signal from Indiana’s administration that it intends to compete at the very top of the sport.
Mendoza in the Heisman Race
Quarterback Fernando Mendoza continues to lead the way for Indiana, surpassing 1,400 passing yards through six games with a sterling touchdown-to-interception ratio. His production has vaulted him into the Heisman Trophy conversation, giving the Hoosiers a true national star at the game’s most important position.
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Series History & Road Trend
The Brass Spittoon adds history and intensity to this weekend’s matchup. Over the last five meetings, the visiting team has won every game in the series, an oddity that adds intrigue to Indiana’s task of protecting home turf.
Breaking Down the Matchup
- Indiana Offense vs Michigan State Defense: Mendoza, alongside Roman Hemby and Kaelon Black in the run game, faces a Spartan defense led by linebacker Jordan Hall and defensive back Armorion Smith. MSU has been solid against the run but vulnerable against big passing plays.
- Michigan State Offense vs Indiana: QB Aiden Chiles, questionable for Saturday, and RB Mekhi Frazier powers a Spartan Offense that has been inconsistent. Indiana defense anchored by LB Aiden Fisher, D’Angelo Ponds, Mikail Kamara, and Louis Moore, has been one of the most dominant defenses in the Big Ten, giving up 11.3 points per game.
What’s at Stake
The new deal for Cignetti underscores Indiana’s transformation: a program that once fought for bowl eligibility is now locking up its coach at nearly $12 million a year, confident in its place among the nation’s elite.
Saturday’s Brass Spittoon Game offers another chance to prove it on the field. With Mendoza chasing the Heisman and Cignetti secured long-term, the Hoosiers are positioned to make 2025 a season for the ages.
Kickoff is set for 3:30 PM at Memorial Stadium, where Indiana will look to keep the Spittoon in Bloomington — and keep their dream season alive.