On Saturday night, Indiana pulled off one of the biggest upsets in recent college football history. The Indiana Hoosiers beat the mighty Ohio State Buckeyes 13–10 to claim the Big Ten Championship Game — and in dramatic fashion. The win ended decades of disappointment and cemented Indiana’s place at the top going into the playoffs.
The Missed Field Goal That Changed Everything
The deciding moment came in the final minutes. Ohio State, trailing by three, had driven deep into Indiana territory and lined up for what should’ve been a routine 27-yard field goal — a kick that would’ve tied the game. But the ball sailed wide left. That miss sealed the game, and handed Indiana a title many thought was out of reach.
Big Plays and Gutsy Defense
Indiana’s quarterback Fernando Mendoza delivered under pressure, throwing a crucial touchdown pass to take the lead in the third quarter. Meanwhile, Indiana’s defense stood tall — stopping multiple late drives from Ohio State and protecting the lead when it mattered most.
Historic Achievement — First Title in Decades
This is Indiana’s first outright Big Ten championship since 1967 — a milestone many fans gave up hoping for decades ago. The win also ends a long losing streak against Ohio State, finally delivering a signature victory that changes the narrative for the Hoosiers program.
What This Means for the Playoffs
With this victory, Indiana locks up the No. 1 seed in the College Football Playoff — a dream scenario given their season-long unbeaten run. They enter the postseason on top, with momentum and confidence high. Meanwhile Ohio State — though still a potential playoff team — now faces uncertainty after a crushing loss