Is Indiana having the greatest single-season turnaround in recent college football history? This question resonates deeply in the sports community as the Hoosiers transition from a dismal 3-9 record last season to an impressive 10-0 start this year. Last season, Indiana struggled to secure wins in their final two games, marking a disappointing end to the Tom Allen era. However, this year, they find themselves in a prime position to contend for the Big Ten title as they prepare to face Ohio State on Big Noon Kickoff (noon ET on FOX and the FOX Sports app).
Under the guidance of first-year head coach Curt Cignetti, Indiana has not only improved but has also made history. The Hoosiers’ victory over Michigan in Week 11 marked a significant milestone, as it was their first-ever 10-win season. Cignetti, known for his successful coaching background, has transformed the program in a way that many did not foresee, especially when considering Indiana’s previous struggles.
As the Hoosiers inch closer to a potential College Football Playoff berth, observers are left to ponder whether this turnaround is the most remarkable in the sport’s history. To put this into perspective, it is worthwhile to examine the most significant year-over-year win increases in FBS since 2000, excluding teams from the 2021 season that played a shortened schedule.
2005 UCF (went from 0-11 to 8-5; +8 wins)
The Central Florida Knights experienced a dramatic turnaround in 2005 under head coach George O’Leary. After a winless debut season, they showcased their potential in Conference USA, finishing with a 7-1 record against conference opponents. Star receiver Brandon Marshall made a significant impact, leading the team with 74 receptions and 11 touchdowns, while running back Kevin Smith contributed with over 1,000 rushing yards.
UCF wide receiver Brandon Marshall had 11 receiving touchdowns in 2005 to help his program’s turnaround. (Photo by Bob Levey/WireImage)
Despite their success in the regular season, UCF fell short in the conference championship game and lost in the Hawaii Bowl. Nevertheless, this season laid the groundwork for a successful future under O’Leary, culminating in a Fiesta Bowl victory in 2012.
2011 Houston (went from 5-7 to 13-1; +8 wins)
In 2011, Houston rebounded from a disappointing 5-7 season, largely due to the return of quarterback Case Keenum, who led the nation in passing yards and touchdowns. Under coach Kevin Sumlin, the Cougars finished with an impressive 13-1 record, narrowly missing a BCS bowl berth after losing in the C-USA Championship Game.
Despite this setback, Houston ended the season on a high note, defeating Penn State in the Ticket City Bowl and finishing ranked 18th nationally.
Case Keenum’s record-setting season helped Houston’s turnaround in 2011, which included a win over Penn State in the Ticket City Bowl. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
2014 Air Force (went from 2-10 to 10-3; +8 wins)
Air Force also saw a remarkable turnaround in 2014, moving from a 2-10 season to 10-3. Coach Troy Calhoun’s team showcased a potent triple-option offense that featured standout performances from several running backs, helping them defeat eventual conference champion Boise State during the regular season.
2017 Florida Atlantic (went from 3-9 to 11-3; +8 wins)
In 2017, Lane Kiffin revitalized Florida Atlantic, guiding the Owls from a 3-9 record to an impressive 11-3 finish. The team’s success was driven by running back Devin Singletary, who rushed for a conference-high 1,920 yards and 32 touchdowns, leading them to a C-USA Championship title.
2018 Georgia Southern (went from 2-10 to 10-3; +8 wins)
Georgia Southern, under Chad Lunsford, also turned around its fortunes, finishing 10-3 after a 2-10 season. The Eagles relied heavily on their defense and managed to secure an upset win over a ranked opponent.
2019 Navy (went from 3-10 to 11-2; +8 wins)
In 2019, Navy rebounded from a disappointing season to finish 11-2, showcasing a dominant triple-option offense led by quarterback Malcolm Perry, who rushed for over 2,000 yards.
2022 TCU (went from 5-7 to 13-2; +8 wins)
TCU’s turnaround in 2022 was remarkable, as they went from a 5-7 record to the national championship game under coach Sonny Dykes. The Horned Frogs became a force in the Big 12, defeating several ranked opponents along the way.
How Indiana stacks up
When comparing Indiana’s current season to these notable turnarounds, it becomes evident that the Hoosiers are not just competing with non-power conference teams. Their journey mirrors that of Auburn in 2013 and TCU in 2022, both of which achieved significant success in power conferences. If Indiana can maintain its momentum, they may well solidify their place in college football history with one of the most impressive single-season turnarounds ever witnessed.
