Indianapolis, December 7, 2025
The Indiana Hoosiers achieved a historic victory, clinching their first Big Ten Championship since 1967 with a 13-10 win over the Ohio State Buckeyes. Quarterback Fernando Mendoza was pivotal, throwing a decisive touchdown pass and earning MVP honors. This win ended a long-standing 30-game losing streak against Ohio State and marked Indiana’s first outright Big Ten title since 1945, solidifying their place in the College Football Playoff.
Indianapolis, Indiana – December 6, 2025
Indiana Hoosiers clinched their first Big Ten Championship since 1967 with a 13-10 victory over the top-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes at Lucas Oil Stadium. This win also secured Indiana’s first outright Big Ten title since 1945 and ended a 30-game losing streak against Ohio State that dated back to 1988.
Game Highlights
The decisive moment came midway through the third quarter when Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza connected with wide receiver Elijah Sarratt for a 17-yard touchdown pass, giving the Hoosiers a 13-10 lead. Indiana’s defense then held firm, preventing Ohio State from scoring in the second half and stopping them twice inside the red zone in the final moments of the game.
Player Performances
Mendoza, who was named the game’s Most Valuable Player, threw for 222 yards and the crucial touchdown. Sarratt’s touchdown reception was pivotal in securing the lead. Ohio State’s offense, despite reaching the red zone four times, managed only one touchdown and a field goal, failing to score after halftime.
Implications for the College Football Playoff
With this victory, Indiana is expected to secure the top seed in the College Football Playoff, while Ohio State, despite the loss, is anticipated to receive a first-round bye, likely maintaining a position within the top four teams in the final CFP rankings.
Background
This championship game marked the first No. 1 vs. No. 2 matchup in a conference championship since the 2009 SEC Championship Game. Indiana’s perfect season and victory over Ohio State highlight the Hoosiers’ rise in college football, culminating in their first Big Ten Championship in over five decades.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was the final score of the Big Ten Championship Game?
The final score was Indiana 13, Ohio State 10.
When was the last time Indiana won the Big Ten Championship?
Indiana last won the Big Ten Championship in 1967.
How did Indiana secure the victory?
Indiana secured the victory with a 17-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Fernando Mendoza to wide receiver Elijah Sarratt in the third quarter, followed by a strong defensive performance that prevented Ohio State from scoring in the second half.
What are the implications for the College Football Playoff?
Indiana is expected to secure the top seed in the College Football Playoff, while Ohio State is anticipated to receive a first-round bye, likely maintaining a position within the top four teams in the final CFP rankings.
When was the last time Indiana defeated Ohio State?
Indiana’s victory over Ohio State ended a 30-game losing streak dating back to 1988.
Key Features of the Game
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Score | Indiana 13, Ohio State 10 |
| Indiana’s Last Big Ten Championship | 1967 |
| Decisive Play | 17-yard touchdown pass from Fernando Mendoza to Elijah Sarratt in the third quarter |
| Ohio State’s Red Zone Performance | Reached red zone four times, scored one touchdown and one field goal, no points in second half |
| College Football Playoff Implications | Indiana likely to secure top seed, Ohio State expected to receive first-round bye |
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Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
