The 23rd ranked Indiana Hoosier football team (5-0) hits the road this week to play 2-2 Northwestern.

“This will be the best defensive team we’ve played. Really extremely well-coached, in the right places. They know what they’re doing. They make you earn your points. They’re not going to lose the game. You’ll have to win it,” said Indiana Hoosier Head Football Coach Curt Cignetti in a Monday press conference.

Northwestern is allowing 16 points per game defensively. One of the things that caught Cignetti’s eye was Joseph Himon II for Northwestern. In their 24-5 loss to Washington, Himon racked up 150 yards across three kickoff returns. Himon’s total was aided by a career-best 96-yard scamper early on in the fourth quarter.

“Looking forward to having a good week in preparation for this next game,” Cignetti continued.

Cignetti was asked about how his team was able to overcome four turnovers and beat Maryland on Saturday while dealing with adversity.

“You’re not emotional about the circumstances of the football game. You’re focused on the here and now and what’s your job, keeping your poise and composure. When you get 11 guys doing their job consistently, that can happen,” said Cignetti.

Cignetti says it requires an element of “buy in” from the players.

“You want people who understand hard work, commitment, discipline, and are moldable. You don’t necessarily want self-centered type people,” said Cignetti.

He also emphasized the need to never get too high or too low.

“That’s how all of my teams in the past have played. That’s how I’m trying to get this team to play,” said Cignetti.

Indiana is ranked in the Top 25 for the first time since 2021. Their game against Northwestern kicks off on Saturday October 5 at 3:30 pm EST.