West Lafayette, Indiana, November 30, 2025
The Indiana Hoosiers completed a perfect 12-0 regular season, securing a historic victory over Purdue Boilermakers with a score of 56-3 in the 100th Old Oaken Bucket Game. This win not only retained the Old Oaken Bucket but also marked Indiana’s first-ever appearance in the Big Ten Championship Game. The Hoosiers showcased their offensive skills with 548 total yards while their defense limited Purdue’s scoring opportunities, reflecting a dominant performance throughout the season.
Indiana Hoosiers Secure Historic 12-0 Season with Dominant Win Over Purdue
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – The Indiana Hoosiers capped off a historic 12-0 regular season with a decisive 56-3 victory over the Purdue Boilermakers in the 100th Old Oaken Bucket Game on Friday night at Ross-Ade Stadium. This win not only retained the Old Oaken Bucket but also secured Indiana’s first-ever appearance in the Big Ten Championship Game.
Key Highlights
- Unblemished Season: Indiana completed its first perfect regular season in program history, finishing 12-0 and 9-0 in Big Ten play.
- Offensive Dominance: The Hoosiers amassed 548 total yards, including 355 rushing yards, with Roman Hemby leading the ground attack with 152 yards and a touchdown.
- Defensive Prowess: Indiana’s defense limited Purdue to just 282 total yards and forced multiple turnovers, including an interception by Amare Ferrell and a fumble recovery by Devan Boykin.
- Historic Rivalry: The victory marked the second consecutive year Indiana has retained the Old Oaken Bucket, a tradition dating back to 1925. Purdue leads the all-time series 77-44-6, but Indiana has now won the last two matchups.
Looking Ahead
With the regular season concluded, the Hoosiers are set to face the winner of the Ohio State vs. Michigan game in the Big Ten Championship Game on December 6 in Indianapolis. The College Football Playoff bracket will be released the following day, with Indiana aiming for its first national championship appearance.
Background on the Old Oaken Bucket
The Old Oaken Bucket is a traveling trophy awarded annually to the winner of the Indiana-Purdue football game. The tradition began in 1925 when the bucket was rediscovered on a local farm, believed to have been used by Confederate soldiers during the Civil War. The rivalry has since become one of the most storied in college football, symbolizing the intense competition and pride between the two in-state programs.
Recent Developments
Indiana’s victory over Purdue continues a trend of dominance in the rivalry, with the Hoosiers outscoring the Boilermakers 114-3 over the past two seasons. This marks the first time in eight decades that Indiana has held Purdue without a touchdown in consecutive games.
Team Performance
Quarterback Fernando Mendoza, a frontrunner for the Heisman Trophy, contributed to the win with 117 passing yards and two touchdowns, along with 27 rushing yards and a touchdown. Wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. led the receiving corps with 63 yards and a touchdown on three receptions. Linebacker Stephen Daley was a standout on defense, recording six tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, and a forced fumble.
Program Milestones
This season marks a significant turnaround for Indiana football, which had previously struggled in the Big Ten. The Hoosiers’ perfect regular season and upcoming championship game appearance reflect the successful leadership of head coach Curt Cignetti, who has revitalized the program since his arrival.
Fan Engagement
The Hoosiers’ success has energized their fan base, with supporters celebrating the team’s achievements and looking forward to the postseason. The retention of the Old Oaken Bucket has further solidified the connection between the team and its fans, symbolizing a new era of success for Indiana football.
Looking Ahead
As Indiana prepares for the Big Ten Championship Game and potentially the College Football Playoff, the team remains focused on its goals. The Hoosiers are determined to build on their historic season and continue their pursuit of a national championship, with the support of their fans and the momentum of their recent successes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Old Oaken Bucket?
The Old Oaken Bucket is a traveling trophy awarded annually to the winner of the Indiana-Purdue football game. The tradition began in 1925 when the bucket was rediscovered on a local farm, believed to have been used by Confederate soldiers during the Civil War. The rivalry has since become one of the most storied in college football, symbolizing the intense competition and pride between the two in-state programs.
What was the outcome of the 100th Old Oaken Bucket Game?
In the 100th Old Oaken Bucket Game, the Indiana Hoosiers defeated the Purdue Boilermakers 56-3, retaining the trophy for the second consecutive year. This victory capped off Indiana’s first-ever 12-0 regular season and secured their spot in the Big Ten Championship Game.
Who is leading the Indiana Hoosiers in the 2025 season?
The Indiana Hoosiers are led by head coach Curt Cignetti, who has revitalized the program since his arrival. Under his leadership, the Hoosiers have achieved a historic 12-0 regular season and are set to compete in the Big Ten Championship Game.
What are the Indiana Hoosiers’ prospects for the postseason?
The Indiana Hoosiers are set to face the winner of the Ohio State vs. Michigan game in the Big Ten Championship Game on December 6 in Indianapolis. The College Football Playoff bracket will be released the following day, with Indiana aiming for its first national championship appearance.
How have the Indiana Hoosiers performed in recent rivalry games against Purdue?
Indiana has dominated the recent rivalry, outscoring Purdue 114-3 over the past two seasons. This marks the first time in eight decades that Indiana has held Purdue without a touchdown in consecutive games.
Key Features of the Indiana Hoosiers’ 2025 Season
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Regular Season Record | 12-0, 9-0 Big Ten |
| Big Ten Championship Game | First appearance in program history |
| Old Oaken Bucket | Retained for second consecutive year |
| Offensive Performance | 548 total yards, 355 rushing yards |
| Defensive Performance | Limited Purdue to 282 total yards, forced multiple turnovers |
| Coaching Leadership | Head coach Curt Cignetti revitalized the program |
| Fan Engagement | Increased support and excitement for the team |
| Postseason Prospects | Aiming for first national championship appearance |
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