Indiana University (IU) football has suddenly launched itself into the College Football Playoff conversation after crushing No. 9 Illinois. The Hoosiers’ 63-10 blowout at Memorial Stadium, with more than 56,000 fans watching, has pushed their national profile and playoff hopes to new heights.
Right now, Indiana sits at No. 6 in the ESPN FPI ratings. They’ve got a 57.4 percent shot at making the playoff, which is a wild jump from where most people expected them to be.
Indiana’s Dominant Performance Against Illinois
IU’s win over Illinois wasn’t just another checkmark in the win column—it made a statement. The Hoosiers completely outplayed the Fighting Illini, a team that had steamrolled their first three opponents by at least 25 points each.
This was IU’s first real chance to show what they could do against a ranked Big Ten team. And they didn’t waste it.
Quarterback Fernando Mendoza led the way. He’s been one of the best in the Big Ten this year and, frankly, maybe the most fun to watch.
Mendoza leads the conference in touchdown passes and kept up his hot streak against an Illinois defense that had only allowed two passing TDs all year. His poise and arm have been a huge part of IU’s rise.
Key Stats and Highlights
- Score: Indiana 63, Illinois 10
- Attendance: Over 56,000 fans
- ESPN FPI Rating: Indiana surged to No. 6 nationally
- Playoff Chances: 57.4 percent chance to make the playoff
- Key Player: Fernando Mendoza, Big Ten leader in touchdown passes
Updated College Football Playoff Projections
After IU’s big win, several new College Football Playoff projections are out. Heather Dinich from ESPN has IU slotted at No. 11, and she points to their dominant win over a very experienced Illinois squad.
The Athletic gives the Hoosiers a 26 percent playoff chance and ranks them No. 19 overall. Meanwhile, CBSSports.com also puts IU at No. 11, projecting a possible CFP matchup with No. 6 Oregon.
Heather Dinich’s Analysis
Dinich highlights IU’s win as their first real shot to show the committee a complete game against a ranked Big Ten team. She also singles out Mendoza’s play as a big reason for IU’s success.
The Athletic’s Projections
The Athletic’s numbers give IU a 26 percent playoff chance after the Illinois game. They’ve got IU at No. 19, which is a pretty big leap in national buzz.
CBSSports.com’s Insights
CBSSports.com also has IU at No. 11, with a projected CFP matchup against Oregon. They mention that if IU finishes 11-1 but doesn’t make the Big Ten title game, their résumé—especially with two ranked wins—could give them an edge over teams like a two-loss Georgia Tech.
Implications for the Rest of the Season
IU’s win over Illinois has set up a wild ride for the rest of the season. If they can keep it rolling, they might just hang onto that top playoff spot.
Remaining Challenges
Of course, it’s not going to be easy from here. IU still has to keep their momentum and not slip up against tough teams.
Games against Oregon and Penn State loom large. Those could decide everything.
Path to the Playoff
If IU wants to lock in a playoff spot, they’ll have to keep winning, and probably do it with some style. Every win matters now, and the committee will be watching their every move.
Conclusion
Indiana University’s football team just made a real statement with that dominant win over Illinois.
They’re sitting at No. 6 in the ESPN FPI ratings, which is honestly higher than most people expected.
Right now, the Hoosiers have a 57.4 percent chance of making the College Football Playoff.
Quarterback Fernando Mendoza has been huge for them—his performances are a big part of why they’re here.
If IU can keep this level up, who knows? The playoff spot is absolutely in reach.
For more details and updates, check out the full article on Inside the Hall.
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