Kirk Herbstreit predicts Indiana University Big Ten win in 2026

ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit has projected Indiana University to win the Big Ten in 2026. Herbstreit cited the team's home-field advantage, noting their 15-game winning streak in Bloomington, as a key factor in their ability to overcome Ohio State in their scheduled October 17 matchup.

Herbstreit highlighted the coaching stability under Curt Cignetti, specifically praising the retention of offensive coordinator Mike Shanahan and defensive coordinator Bryant Haines. Despite the expected departure of Heisman-winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza, Herbstreit expressed confidence in Josh Hoover as the successor.