The Indiana Hoosiers have been one of the biggest surprises in college football over the past two seasons. Historically, the Hoosiers have struggled, holding an all-time record of 509-692-38.
After Curt Cignetti left James Madison to become the head coach at Indiana before the 2024 season, he completely transformed the program. Cignetti boasts an impressive record of 27-2 over those two years. This includes the only two double-digit win seasons in Indiana’s history. The Hoosiers finished Year 1 with an 11-2 record and had an outstanding 16-0 season in Year 2, culminating in a national championship.
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The question is, who might be the next Indiana? David Pollack and Rece Davis discussed this topic on “See Ball Get Ball with David Pollack.” The former Georgia All-American expressed doubt that any team will achieve the same level of success that Indiana did. However, he is a big fan of the Oklahoma State Cowboys, who hired Eric Morris, the head coach of the North Texas Mean Green, this offseason.
Oklahoma State University (OSU) introduces the new head football coach, Eric Morris.© DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
(© DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)
“They brought the best with them,” Pollack said. “I think Eric Morris can, obviously, can coach. I really like him… I think the Pokes got a chance to come in and at least poke some people, like at least get some big fish.”
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Morris brought in a total of 53 players from the transfer portal after his arrival in Stillwater, including 16 players from North Texas. However, he faces a significant challenge ahead, as the Cowboys have posted a record of 4-20 over the last two seasons. In contrast, Morris is coming off a successful season with a record of 12-2 at North Texas.
The team was led by quarterback Drew Mestemaker, who threw for 4,379 yards, completed 34 touchdowns and had nine interceptions, achieving a completion rate of 69.9%. Running back Caleb Hawkins also had an impressive season, rushing for 1,434 yards and scoring 25 touchdowns. Both players decided to follow Morris to Oklahoma State.
Due to these additions, the future appears promising in Stillwater. The goal now is to rebuild Oklahoma State into a contender in the Big 12 and potentially the College Football Playoff.
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Related: Surging College Football Coach Predicted to Replace Mike Gundy at Oklahoma State
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 8, 2026, where it first appeared in the College Football section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
