Numbers drive so much in today’s world and the sports world is no different. Now more than ever teams are hiring and building analytics teams to get every edge possible over their opponents. Over the course of the season, we’ll look into many of those numbers ahead of the Indiana Hoosiers’ matchups each week, so be on the lookout for that!
Without further ado, let’s get into it:
14% Growth
…Represents the improvement UCLA’s offense has seen since their coaching change, per Pro Football Focus’ (PFF) overall offensive grades. The first four games of the season (all losses), UCLA averaged an offensive grade of about 63, which is right about average when it comes to PFF grades. In the three games since the coaching change (all wins), UCLA averaged an offensive grade of about 71.
It’s clear the changes that went in place worked, as Indiana Head Coach Curt Cignetti said that he is considering UCLA a 3-0 team, as any film prior to the coaching change is now irrelevant. The Hoosiers will need to be on guard, as UCLA is one of the hottest teams in the country with a now revamped offense.
85th
…Represents, despite UCLA’s revamped offense, a clear hole in their game nonetheless – run blocking. UCLA ranking 85th in the country in run blocking per PFF puts a ceiling on this team and makes them more one dimensional. Even after the coaching change, the run blocking has not improved, per PFF, which gives Indiana opportunity to capitalize and take control of this game. While the Bruins have improved in pass blocking since the coaching change, this weakness of running the ball still plays in favor of the Hoosiers to force UCLA’s hand into exactly what the Hoosiers want them to do.
7%
…Represents the percent likelihood PFF has assigned the Hoosiers to win the College Football National Championship. Never in my lifetime would I think the Hoosiers would have even a 1% chance. Heck, even a 0.5% chance. Heck, even a 0.1% chance. Heck, any chance at all! But here we are, folks. This is a new Indiana team who has now locked in one of the best coaches in the country until his retirement. I am already excited for the statue unveiling. Hopefully that statue has a large ring (or two) carved into Coach Cignetti’s finger. If the Hoosiers keep their winning ways this season, it could happen in the coming months.
#2
…Represents Brendan Franke’s rank on PFF across the entire country when it comes to Kick Off effectiveness. Franke has 50 total kick off attempts with 46 touchbacks and 1 fair catch, representing a ridiculous level of efficiency and is the chief reason Head Coach Curt Cignetti sought out Franke in the transfer portal.
Franke’s incredible performance this year brings the Hoosiers confidence and control in games. For example, it’s easier to prepare in practice as you know over 90% of the time the opposing team will start at the 25 yard line. It removes stress in-game, as you don’t fear a long return, a missed tackle, or a lapse in concentration, as the ball is simply out of the end zone to begin with.
If there is any unsung hero for the Hoosiers thus far in 2025, an easy vote goes towards Brendan Franke, who has done his job better than nearly every other player in the country.
#3
…Represents another player who has done his job better than nearly every other player in the country, Carter Smith, who ranks 3rd in the country when it comes to PFF pass blocking grades. As of October 14th, Carter Smith ranked 10th in Mel Kiper’s 2026 NFL Draft Big Board rankings among all offensive tackles. As Smith continues to put in elite performances week after week, I expect his draft ranking to rise.
He still has eligibility to return for another year of college football, of course, but the NFL would be hard to pass up if he receives a 1st or 2nd round grade. Smith has all the talent in the world and it is a very real possibility he joins Fernando Mendoza in becoming a 1st round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Game Information
Indiana kicks off against UCLA on Saturday, October 25 at 12:00 PM EST! The game will be shown on Fox’s Big Noon Kickoff for those watching at home. Stay locked in with Hoosier Huddle for all things Indiana football and Indiana sports – all season long.
Other Numbers That Matter Articles
–#23 Indiana vs. Kennesaw State
–#22 Indiana vs. Indiana State
–#3 Indiana vs. Michigan State