Hoosier Huddle

Isaiah ‘Bones’ Jones Embodies Indiana Football’s Transformation

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Once a scout-team player, Isaiah “Bones” Jones has become a cornerstone of Indiana’s top-five defense. As the Hoosiers surge to 6-0, Jones’ growth mirrors the program’s transformation under Curt Cignetti — a journey built on perseverance, leadership, and a relentless drive to elevate Indiana football.

IU Spring Football 2025 – Defensive Line Preview, Depth Chart and Superlatives

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Written By: Nick Gonzales (@nrgonzales_)

The Indiana Hoosiers made a lot of noise last season with a tremendous turnaround during their first year with football head coach Curt Cignetti. The same program that went 9-27 from the 2021 to the end of the 2023 season went 11-2 with an appearance in the first 12 team College Football Playoff during their 2024 season. The 2024 roster was made up of many transfers and showed what the future may hold for the Hoosiers. After an outstanding season, Cignetti’s Hoosiers are still not satisfied and have even bigger goals for this season.

Indiana Football Defensive Coordinator Bryant Haines Signs New Contract

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Written by: Nate Comp (@NathanComp1)

Curt Cignetti had his assistant coach salary pool increased this offseason and on Sunday he once again upped the salary of defensive coordinator Bryant Haines, the second time he has done so this offseason. Haines agreed to a more lucrative deal than the $1.8M agreement detailed in the MOU he signed in December. The new deal was first reported by 247 Sports/CBS Sports reporter Matt Zenitz.

Missed Tackles Equals Missed Opportunities for the Hoosiers

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Written By Nick Gonzales (@nrgonzales_)

The Hoosiers are heading back to Bloomington after finishing their last game of the season. Indiana suffered a disappointing loss to the Fighting Irish Friday night and couldn’t get things going all game long. One of the biggest things on defense was their inability for the first man to make the tackle.

Indiana Defensive Coordinator Bryant Hainess Selected Broyles Award Finalist

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Indiana football’s defensive coordinator, Bryant Haines, is a Broyles Award finalist for the second consecutive season, recognizing top college football assistants. Haines drastically improved IU’s defense, ranking it among the top five nationally, leading in rushing defense, and achieving significant in-game adjustments, solidifying his impact in just two years.

CJ West and the Hoosiers Go Under Serious Preparations

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The Indiana Hoosiers have impressively dominated in football this season, showcasing explosive offense and a formidable defense that recently recorded multiple turnovers, sacks, and tackles for loss. Defensive lineman CJ West credits their success to intense preparation and an energetic coaching staff, emphasizing that practice competitiveness contributes to their game-day performance.

Coaches Show Recap: “This Isn’t a Field Trip”

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Head Coach Curt Cignetti discussed the Hoosiers’ performance and upcoming game against UCLA during the latest “Inside IU Football” episode. He praised the team’s energy in their recent 77-3 win over WIU and emphasized preparation for the long trip. Defensive Coordinator Bryant Haines highlighted the importance of communication and chemistry on defense as they face a challenging opponent.

Bryant Haines Brings His Own Identity to Indiana’s Defense

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Indiana defensive coordinator Bryant Haines will earn $1.1 million in 2024, marking the highest salary for a coordinator at the school. Tasked with revamping a struggling defense, Haines aims to implement a fast, physical style while leveraging talent from lower-tier programs. He emphasizes the importance of playmakers over rankings as spring practice approaches.

Curt Cignetti Staff Profiles: Defensive Coordinator Bryant Haines

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Curt Cignetti has hired Bryant Haines as the defensive coordinator at Indiana University. Haines, a Broyles Award semifinalist, previously led James Madison’s defense to impressive rankings, including second in the nation for rushing yards allowed. It is uncertain if he will also take on additional coaching responsibilities.