Indiana football has undergone a remarkable transformation under head coach Curt Cignetti, with significant contributions from two key figures: offensive coordinator Mike Shanahan and defensive coordinator Bryant Haines. This season, the Hoosiers stand unmatched, boasting an undefeated record and a chance to contend for their first national championship.
Mike Shanahan: Offensive Strategy and Success
Mike Shanahan has made a significant impact as Indiana’s offensive coordinator for the second consecutive season. Following a previous year where the team averaged just 22.2 points per game, Shanahan’s strategies have nearly doubled their scoring output. In 2024, Indiana averaged 41.3 points per game, setting multiple program records:
- 70 touchdowns scored
- 537 total points
- Eight games with 40 or more points
This season, the Hoosiers’ performance has improved further, averaging 41.6 points per game, ranking third in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). A key player in this turnaround is quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who won the prestigious Heisman Trophy, marking a historic achievement for Indiana.
Shanahan, who started with Cignetti at Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 2016, has been recognized for his success with a new three-year contract. His pay structure is as follows:
| Year | Salary |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | $2.4 million |
| Year 2 | $2.5 million |
| Year 3 | $2.6 million |
Bryant Haines: Defensive Excellence
Bryant Haines has played a pivotal role in crafting Indiana’s formidable defense. Transitioning from James Madison, where he was the defensive coordinator, Haines brought his expertise to Indiana, transforming a unit that previously allowed an average of 29.9 points per game. Under his guidance, Indiana improved to:
- 15.6 points allowed per game (sixth in the FBS)
- 10.3 points allowed per game (second best in the FBS) this season
This stout defense has earned recognition, with several players, including Aiden Fisher, Mikail Kamara, and D’Angelo Ponds, achieving All-American honors. Haines was also nominated as a finalist for the Broyles Award, recognizing him as one of the top assistant coaches in college football.
Recently, Haines secured a new three-year contract at Indiana, ensuring his presence through 2025. The terms of his contract are:
| Year | Salary |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | $3 million |
| Year 2 | $3.1 million |
| Year 3 | $3.2 million |
Looking Ahead
As Indiana prepares for the College Football Playoff semifinal against Oregon on January 9, 2025, the contributions of Shanahan and Haines will be crucial. Their collaborative efforts have transformed Indiana into a legitimate contender, a feat that seemed unattainable just a few years prior. With a victory, Indiana could advance to the national title game, marking a historic moment for the program.
