Podcast – CrimsonCast

Grace Ybarra and Galen Clavio talk through a brutal week for Indiana men's basketball, starting with the collapse and loss to Northwestern at Assembly Hall. It's a full therapy session: effort concerns, the offensive disappearance, rebounding issues, and the late no-call that capped a night IU fans won't forget. Then the mood shifts to the “happy things” segment: Indiana football's momentum keeps rolling as 2026 football season tickets sell out, and the Hoosiers send a program-record nine players to the NFL Combine—with plenty of love for Fernando Mendoza, Aiden Fisher, and the rest of the title-team stars. Plus: Team USA's gold medal win over Canada in hockey, and (of course) a quick Max Mendoza detour to close it out.

Indiana is a national champion. Say it again. Indiana. Is. A. National. Champion.On this celebratory edition of CrimsonCast, Scott is joined by Jerod Morris of The Assembly Call for a full-on IU football retrospective — from Bill Mallory roots and Memorial Stadium childhood memories to the Peach Bowl, the Rose Bowl, and that unforgettable national championship night in Miami.This isn't just a recap. It's therapy. It's joy. It's disbelief. It's perspective. It's what happens when a program that spent decades building brick by brick finally stands at the top of the sport.Jared shares what it was like growing up the son of a Mallory assistant, how Indiana football shaped his identity long before basketball ever did, and what this title means to fans who lived through 0-11 seasons, coaching changes, near-misses, and rivalry heartbreak. They dig into the signature moments — the Ohio State statement, the CFP run, the championship game atmosphere — and why this wasn't a fluke, but the culmination of vision, culture, and belief.There's laughter, there's nostalgia, there's a little Purdue ribbing, and yes — there's a reminder that no one can ever take this away.You're a champion. We're all champions.(Note: These may not be clickable depending on your podcast app.)03:30 – 14:00 – Jared's IU football origin story: Bill Mallory, childhood memories, Memorial Stadium, and growing up in the program14:00 – 22:00 – The Peach Bowl feeling, when belief became real, and the shift from “great season” to “we can win it all”22:00 – 36:00 – Building a champion: culture, leadership, recruiting, development, and the vision behind the rise36:00 – 45:00 – The National Championship Game: atmosphere in Miami, signature moments, and why beating elite teams mattered45:00 – 54:00 – The Ohio State factor, rivalry validation, and what made this title feel complete54:00 – 1:03:00 – The emotional aftermath: pride, identity, what it means for IU fans everywhere (even in Texas)1:03:00 – End – Legacy talk, perspective, and the simple truth: you can never take away a national championshipIf you've ever sat in Memorial Stadium in bad weather.If you've ever defended IU football to skeptical friends.If you've ever believed — even just a little — that someday it could happen…This episode is for you.

Galen Clavio and Scott Caulfield open with a quick detour into Olympic hockey chaos, then dive into two big Indiana topics.First: Indiana football's new reality—Curt Cignetti's massive contract extension, what it signals about IU's willingness to spend like a true power, and why the next phase has to include real Memorial Stadium upgrades to match the program's new level. The guys also discuss the NCAA's latest bout of pettiness and why the Louis Moore injunction chatter isn't something Hoosiers should lose sleep over. Then it's basketball: Indiana's week goes sideways with losses at Illinois and a 29-point blowout at Purdue (the biggest margin in the series since 1969). They break down why IU's early offensive stagnation doomed the game, the troubling defensive trendlines, and why the path to the NCAA Tournament is suddenly far narrower than it looked a couple weeks ago.

Grace Ybarra and Galen Clavio are back with a packed Hoosiers episode that starts on the hardwood and ends… in the Max Mendoza Cinematic Universe.They open with Indiana men's basketball's rough loss at Illinois—why the game got away from IU, what the run problems and rebounding issues reveal, and why the margin for error gets tiny fast when the supporting scoring disappears. Then it's a forward look at the toughest test on the schedule: Purdue at Mackey, what Indiana must do to have a chance, and why this matchup is especially unforgiving given Purdue's offensive efficiency profile.After that, it's football: Bryant Haines winning the Broyles Award (and what it signals for Indiana's defensive brand), plus a staff update with Bryson Bonds joining as a special teams assistant and what it says about the program's culture.Finally, the show turns into a brainstorming session on how to upgrade the Memorial Stadium experience (bathrooms, concourses, audio/visual, lights, premium areas, and where the “National Champions” banner/trophies should live)… and then pivots to the must-follow phenomenon: The Max Mendoza Show—including clips, commentary, and a ridiculous over/under game about X follower counts.

On this episode of CrimsonCast Perspectives, GC tests out some new lighting in the studio while talking about why the Big Ten's recently leaked 24 team playoff proposal makes a lot more sense than people are giving it credit. Too much emphasis is being placed on a regular season that no longer tells us very much about who the best teams in the country are --- and we're not changing that anytime soon. It's time to stop fighting playoff expansion and embrace it instead.Leave your comments below with thoughts and opinions about a 24 team playoff in college football

On this episode of CrimsonCast Scott is joined by special guest Connor Onion from the Big Ten Network!Episode HighlightsThe Ultimate Glow-Up: A look back at the wild ride from a three-and-nine team to a 16-0 national champion.When Belief Set In: Connor and the host discuss the exact moment they realized this wasn't a fluke—the Big 10 Championship game against Ohio State.The Heisman Warrior: A breakdown of Fernando Mendoza's incredible season, balancing his "warrior" mentality on the field with his "goofy" social media persona.Breaking College Football: How Indiana's success is confusing the national media and why Big Ten rivals are now celebrating when they don't have to play the Hoosiers.The Cignetti Factor: Why Curt Cignetti is the perfect coach for Bloomington and how he's building a legacy that might eventually include multiple statues.Behind the FOX Curtain: Connor takes us inside the network's preseason "referee boot camp" where announcers get quizzed on targeting and new rules.The Transformation of the Rock: Celebrating the new, electric atmosphere at Memorial Stadium and how it finally became a legitimate home-field advantage.00:25 – Welcome to the show: We are national champions!01:31 – Connor Onion on following the journey from 3-9 to 16-002:54 – The turning point: Winning over the skeptics in the Big 10 title game04:52 – Remembering the ominous start vs. Old Dominion09:20 – Media shifts: Preparing for early morning "Big Noon" kickoffs14:18 – A sidebar on the "dumbest T-shirt ever"15:52 – Can anyone replicate the Indiana model?19:43 – Fernando Mendoza: Heisman winner and on-field warrior22:52 – FOX Sports referee boot camp and the mystery of the pivot foot34:55 – Five-year outlook: Is this level of success sustainable?37:51 – The legacy of Curt Cignetti48:58 – From empty tailgates to a sold-out Memorial Stadium51:43 – Closing thoughts and basketball tournament hopes

Galen Clavio sits down with Griffin Gonzalez for an “exit interview” that turns into a perfect snapshot of what the last few years of Indiana football have felt like from inside Memorial Stadium.Griffin shares what it was like serving as IU football's on-field mic personality through the program's lowest moments — and then watching the place transform into a full-blown destination as the wins (and the crowds) exploded. They talk about the unseen work that goes into fan experience, the pressure of “being the ambassador of fun” even on brutal Saturdays, and the upgrades that changed the in-stadium production along the way.Plus: Griffin explains why he's leaving Indiana for a new on-air opportunity in Boston, tells the behind-the-scenes story of Hoosier the Bison's return (and the stress of introducing him), and reflects on the playoff run as a lifelong IU fan who never really let himself believe something like this could happen.

Galen Clavio drops a quick Friday “mini episode” with updates on Indiana football and a deep dive into what's happening with Indiana men's basketball under the hood.First: IU football news, including Broyles Award winner Bryant Haines and what it says about the credibility (and sustainability) of Indiana's defensive identity. Then Galen pivots to hoops with a detailed look at the advanced numbers—why IU's season has essentially become two different teams: an early stretch powered by defense, followed by a January run where the offense has become elite while the defense has slipped.Finally, Galen explains why those trendlines matter with Illinois and Purdue looming, what Indiana can realistically change late in the year, and how Big Ten Tournament seeding (and avoiding Wednesday) should shape the stretch-run mindset.

Galen Clavio and Grace Ybarra are back with a midweek IU athletics update — and this one is all about Indiana men's basketball finding traction.They open with the Hoosiers' 92–74 win over Oregon, highlighted by another monster scoring night from Lamar Wilkerson and a huge efficiency game from Sam Alexis. The conversation then turns to what's changing under head coach Darian DeVries (including how he's adjusting Alexis' usage), why Indiana's offense is beginning to feel more sustainable, and the one looming concern: a defensive trendline that's drifting the wrong way even as the wins pile up.From there, it's a forward look at Illinois—matchup strengths/weaknesses, injury questions, and what Indiana needs to do to steal one on the road—before zooming out to bracketology and the Big Ten Tournament seeding mess (yes, including the dreaded 11 a.m. tips).

Welcome back to CrimsonCast! In this episode, host Scott Caulfield sits down with Bloomington local and media veteran Ken Bikoff to reflect on Indiana University's "dream season" and national championship run. Having hosted postgame call-in shows for years, Ken has felt the pain of IU fans more than most and joins the show to discuss the surreal reality of reaching the top of the mountain.**Episode Highlights** * **[00:25] Welcome & News:** Scott opens the show with updates on finding CrimsonCast on YouTube and Substack. * **[01:37] Meet Ken Bikoff:** Scott introduces the man who has been a voice for IU fans through football and basketball postgame shows since 2011. * **[02:51] The Surreal Reality:** Ken shares the feeling of being an IU alum holding a "perfection" shirt and realizing the national championship actually happened. * **[05:32] Dreaming Big:** Ken reflects on Scott's past idealism for the program, questioning "why not us?" when others were just hoping for a bowl game. * **[08:12] Coaching History:** A journey through the program's evolution, from the Mallerie and Cam Cameron eras to the pivotal hard reset under Kevin Wilson. * **[13:42] Facility Breakthroughs:** Recalling how Terry Hepner served as the catalyst for stadium improvements and facilities that moved the program forward. * **[15:43] The Cignetti Era:** Analyzing Coach Curt Cignetti's matter-of-fact approach and the "unbelievably quick turnaround" that made the program sustainable. * **[25:01] Sliding Door Moments:** Revisiting the 2021 Cincinnati game as a turning point that signaled the "beginning of the end" for the previous coaching regime. * **[29:34] Season Pivot Points:** Reflections on the statement win at UCLA and the rainy Maryland game where fans stayed to witness something special. * **[36:09] Overcoming Scar Tissue:** The emotional breakthrough of the Ohio State game, realizing IU could beat anyone and didn't have to wait for the other shoe to drop. * **[42:30] IU Takes Over:** Discussing the positive energy of the fan base and the incredible atmosphere in Atlanta and Miami during the championship run. * **[47:34] Memorializing the Season:** A debate on how to honor this achievement in Memorial Stadium, from flags and statues to permanent design improvements. * **[55:01] Championship Gear & Final Thoughts:** Scott and Ken compare their growing collections of national championship mini-helmets and memorabilia.

Galen Clavio sits down with Eddie Koton, the mind behind the now-infamous “Extended Highlights” series on X/Twitter — the chaotic, brilliant, internet-lunatic companion pieces that became required viewing during Indiana football's championship season.Eddie explains how the series started (and why he felt IU football needed its own brand of online insanity), how the bits and recurring characters evolved over the course of the season, and what his actual workflow looks like when he's building an episode in Premiere from highlights, bookmarks, and whatever his brain decides is funny that day.They also talk about what it's like when the content escapes the IU bubble — including the surreal moment Mark Cuban quote-tweeted the final episode — and zoom out into a broader conversation about creativity, editing, and why certain ideas land when you don't even fully understand why.

Galen Clavio and Scott Caulfield recap Indiana's gritty 78–77 overtime win over Wisconsin at Assembly Hall — a résumé-building victory that keeps IU trending in the right direction and puts real shape around the Hoosiers' NCAA Tournament path.They break down the game's wild arc (IU's early surge, the familiar mid-game wobble, and the late-game execution that finally held up), plus the performances that carried Indiana despite major no-shows from key rotation pieces. Lamar Wilkerson stays scorching, Sam Alexis delivers a monster, trajectory-altering game, and Connor Enright continues to be the engine that keeps the offense functioning — including a pair of late whistles that ignited plenty of debate.Then the conversation zooms out: what this win means for Indiana's remaining schedule, why holding serve at home matters so much, and where Indiana could realistically land in the Big Ten Tournament bracket (and why those byes are as confusing as ever).

Galen Clavio is joined by Connor Hitchcock (Homefield Apparel) for a wide-ranging conversation about Indiana's unforgettable playoff run and what it's felt like to experience it as an IU football fan — from the once-in-a-lifetime crowds in Pasadena, Atlanta, and Miami to the emotional whiplash of finally watching the Hoosiers finish the job.Connor also shares the behind-the-scenes story of one of the coolest moments of championship weekend: how Homefield pulled off the in-stadium “National Champions 2025” jacket reveal after Jamari Sharpe's late interception of Carson Beck, including the inside-out-jacket trick to get past stadium bag rules.It's part fandom therapy session, part business/CFB culture discussion, and part “how is this real life?” reflection — and it captures exactly what this season has meant to Indiana fans.

Galen Clavio and Grace Ybarra open with a big CrimsonCast announcement — Grace is joining the show as a regular host — then dive into a two-sport update on Indiana basketball and Indiana football. On the basketball side, they recap IU's split in L.A.: why the UCLA double-overtime win looms even larger now, what went wrong in the USC loss, and how the Hoosiers' late-game decision-making and three-point reliance shape the NCAA Tournament ceiling. They also look ahead to the Wisconsin home game and what Indiana needs to do to stay on the right side of the bracket conversation. After the break, it's football: Indiana absorbs its first meaningful offseason “losses” as coaches move on, then quickly answers with a familiar name — Tino Sunseri returns to the staff. Galen and Grace discuss why keeping the core intact (including OC Mike Shanahan and DC Bryant Haines) matters, what ESPN-style roster/portal evaluations get right (and wrong), and how Indiana's talent evaluation under Curt Cignetti continues to challenge the sport's assumptions. Finally: spring game timing and what could be a massive Little 500 week in Bloomington.

Galen Clavio is joined by Taylor Lehman to put a bow on Indiana football's national championship run — starting with what actually happened in the title game against Miami, why it got dicey in the third quarter, and the handful of pivotal moments (including the blocked punt TD and the late interception) that slammed the door. From there, it's a forward-looking, roster-building deep dive: how Indiana replaces key departures (including Stephen Daley, Aidan Fisher, D'Angelo Ponds, and Lewis Moore), why continuity with Curt Cignetti's staff matters, and what the portal class says about the program's “production over potential” strategy heading into 2026 — with detailed talk on Josh Hoover at QB, the tight end depth concern, and why the new wide receiver room could be even nastier. Presented by Homefield Apparel and Posh Hotel Bloomington.

Galen Clavio breaks down Indiana men's basketball's wild 98–97 double-overtime win over UCLA—a huge résumé boost that stabilizes IU's NCAA Tournament outlook and changes the tone of February.Galen covers the late-game decision not to foul, the offensive explosion from Nick Dorn, Lamar Wilkerson, and Reed Bailey, and what the efficiency trendlines say about where Indiana is improving (and where the defense still has to tighten up). He also digs into some of the factors that showed up at Pauley Pavilion, updated tournament odds, and what Indiana needs to do over the next month—starting with a late-night trip to USC.

Galen Clavio welcomes Bill Connelly (ESPN) — the creator of SP+ — for a deep, nuts-and-bolts look at Indiana football's unprecedented rise to the top of college football and what it means going forward.They discuss why Indiana's two-year climb under Curt Cignetti is so difficult to comp historically, what the numbers say about how Indiana won (elite down-to-down efficiency, red zone performance, and consistently winning field position), and why “just use the portal” is a lazy explanation that doesn't match the underlying inputs.Bill also explains how SP+ balances efficiency vs explosiveness, why special teams are so hard to measure (but can decide championships), where Indiana's title team fits among recent champions, and how returning production + incoming production help shape early projections for 2026.

Galen Clavio is joined by Olivia Ray to relive Miami during national championship weekend—from the lead-up and media-day vibe to the chaos around the stadium, credentialed access, and what it was like working on the field as Indiana finished the job.They talk about how Indiana carried itself all week, the strange “everyone-get-inside-early” atmosphere around Hard Rock Stadium, and the surreal postgame sprint when confetti starts falling and everything happens at once. Plus: the ripple effect among IU alumni and longtime program staff, and a big announcement—Olivia is launching a new Back Home Network show, “Raise the Flag.”

Galen Clavio is joined by special guest Grace Ybarra to relive the unforgettable CFP National Championship weekend in Miami—the 48-hour blur of events, fan moments, stadium chaos, and the emotional whiplash of watching Indiana win it all.They walk through everything from the Homefield events (including the packed night at Mickey Burkes with Straight No Chaser) to the American Social gathering on game day, the tailgating scene outside Hard Rock Stadium, and what it was like inside the building as Indiana pulled off the championship win over Miami.Most importantly, this episode is about the feeling: what it's like to experience a once-in-a-lifetime sports moment alongside other Hoosiers, meet strangers who instantly become friends, and realize—slowly, then all at once—that Indiana football really became national champions.

You know Andy Bottoms from Assembly Call, but he's also a lifelong IU Football fan. For Andy, football—and Memorial Stadium in particular—represents a deep, personal connection shared with his father.Wanted to get him on to talk about his history with IU Football, and what this season and journey to a National Championship has meant to him.

Join CrimsonCast and the Back Home Network as we talk about IU Football's 2026 schedule release, Indiana's win over Purdue in men's basketball, recruiting news, questions about the football team, and more.

Galen welcomes Alex Paul of Hoosiers Connect fame to the podcast for an in-depth conversation and look back at the "Stampede To Pasadena" --- the cross-country trip that Alex and GC took to see Indiana football play in their first Rose Bowl Game in nearly 60 years. We discuss the origins of the plan to drive across country, how the drive (and the social media content) slowly took shape as the trip continued, and the culmination of Indiana fans' hopes and dreams in the 38-3 demolition of Alabama in Pasadena. Also included are a variety of images from the stampede, showcasing some of the interesting and fun moments that we found along the way.For fans of travelogues and for those of you who followed the Stampede as closely as you did, this podcast should answer some questions for you! We appreciate everyone who took part, donated money, and followed along on social media.

You know Coach Tonsoni from Assembly Call, but he has also been a long time IU Football season ticket holder. Wanted to get him on to talk about his history with IU Football, and what this season and journey to a National Championship has meant to him.

Indiana football's historic season officially gets its punctuation mark.On this episode of CrimsonCast, Galen Clavio and Scott Caulfield reflect on Indiana's championship celebration at Memorial Stadium, what the moment meant for fans and the program, and why holding the event in the stadium mattered — even in brutal weather. From there, the conversation widens into the big picture: roster decisions, NFL calculus for players, national perception shifts, and how Indiana's run may have fundamentally changed the way college football can be built.The guys dive deep into why Indiana's championship matters beyond Bloomington, how Curt Cignetti's approach challenges long-held assumptions about recruiting and roster construction, and why the Hoosiers' rise is sending shockwaves through the sport. This is both a celebration of what just happened — and a thoughtful look at what comes next for Indiana football and college football as a whole.

Indiana are national champions, and Galen Clavio and Scott Caulfield finally sit down to process what that means — on the field and emotionally — after Indiana's 27–21 championship win over Miami to complete an undefeated season.They break down the game itself: how Indiana weathered Miami's surges, why the Hoosiers' ability to respond every time was decisive, and how a collection of clutch plays from Fernando Mendoza, Charlie Becker, Omar Cooper Jr., Roman Hemby, Kellen Black, and the defense sealed the title.But this episode is also about the experience of Indiana football fandom — the long wait, the shared moments in Miami, Pasadena, Atlanta, and Bloomington, and why this championship feels different from simple joy. It's a reflection on belief, perspective, and what it's like when something you never quite expected finally arrives.

From the balcony of CrimsonCast's Bison Camp in South Florida, GC shares some observations and thoughts from Media Day and gives some updates on tickets, timing, and some of the media content that has resonated over the last few days.

In our last preview episode of the 2025 College Football Season, Galen Clavio and Taylor Lehman do a 12-round evaluation of Indiana football's Championship Game match-up with the Miami Hurricanes. We discuss the statistical breakdown of the two teams, where the Hoosiers' strengths lie, and where Miami will attempt to disrupt Indiana on both offense and defense. We discuss various scenarios, go down some statistical rabbit holes, and try to give as full a picture as we can of the most momentous game in Indiana football history.

Get ready for "Championship Cash" on Crimson Cash, where Scott and James are here for a gambling show ahead of the National Championship! Scott and James discuss the unbelievable run Indiana University has been on. James, an IU football fan since the 1987 Old Oaken Bucket game, admits he was convinced he would see Jesus return before IU ever won a national championship. For both Scott and James, this season's success, which includes getting to and winning a Big Ten title, is far beyond what they ever imagined.The episode gives shoutouts to sponsors Homefield Apparel and Posh Hotel in Bloomington. Homefield Apparel is sponsoring a live show on Sunday night, so check their socials for details. The Posh Hotel in Bloomington has the "Curt Cignetti Room," which is the place to be if you are coming into Bloomington for the game's festivities.Scott and James are loving hearing from listeners about their future bets. Scott shares that he has an IU National Championship bet and cashed out on a bet for IU to make the College Football Playoff (CFP). James gave a "Hoosier Hot Streak" pick earlier in the season, telling listeners to bet money on IU to win the national championship at plus 600 odds.When it comes to the game, the guys are focused on making some gambling money. They dive into the betting odds, including the spread, which started at five and a half and has been bet up to eight and a half, with tickets pouring in on the Hoosiers. They look at historical data showing favorites have not only covered the spread in the last five championship games but have covered in style. The public is heavily on the Hoosiers, with 76% to 78% of the tickets, meaning "Vegas really needs Miami".James likes the Hoosiers to cover the eight-and-a-half-point spread, predicting the team will "play joyless murder ball and destroy" Miami, breaking their will to live. The conversation also covers:Alternate spreads, with Scott liking IU at minus 13 and a half.Taking IU's third quarter spread at minus one and a half, as IU has "dominated the third quarter this year".Anytime touchdown scorers, with James liking Omar Cooper and Scott liking Nowakowski based on the odds.The importance of the first two drives of the game and how an early pick six could put an "unbelievable amount of doubt in Miami's head"Scott closes the show by expressing his emotions about seeing his team in a championship, and James notes he's not as nervous as he usually is for games. Scott offers advice for anyone going to Miami: "be early, be ready, be loud, and stay never daunted". Don't miss this one!

GC is joined by The Big Red Carpet's Rhett Lewis to break down the matchup between the Indiana Hoosiers and the Miami Hurricanes. We talk about the strengths of both teams, what we learned from both teams' progressions through the College Football Playoff, and evaluate the physical challenges that Miami could pose to the Hoosiers. We also discuss how Indiana's coaching staff and players are navigating an unprecedented week, and how we as observers are processing things as Championship gameday gets closer.

We are joined once again on CrimsonCast by Olivia Ray of ABC 57 to talk about Indiana football's comments and vibes as we head into the weekend. Olivia gives us some notes and feedback from the various press availabilities that both Indiana and Miami have held this week, and also checks in on the way that Indiana football alums are approaching the Hoosiers playing in a title game.

Connor and GC talk about the the explosion of Indiana football fandom among the Hoosier alumni base, the insane journey of the last two years for longtime IU football fans, and the feeling going into a game that didn't seem like a possibility before the arrival of Curt Cignetti.

As we get you ready for Indiana's Championship Game appearance, BHN brings you a touch of culture from South Florida. Jacqueline Coleman (@HistoryAndWine on Instagram), a food and wine writer in Miami and Star Wine List representative, gives us some tips on high-quality, unique, and exciting places to eat and drink while in Miami. She also gives us some information on Hard Rock Stadium transportation, parking, and food.

It's National Championship Week on Crimson Cast! Scott welcomes back Connor Onion from the Big Ten Network to preview the national championship game. Scott and Connor discuss Indiana University's unbelievable football run, which includes wins against Ohio State, Alabama, and Oregon. Connor Onion shares his perspective as a Big Ten observer, noting that Indiana's defense is sound, with players who "beat blocks" and are "sound tackling". The discussion compares the Indiana team to the 2019 LSU team. Other topics include Head Coach Curt Cignetti's "superpower" and the team's chip-on-the-shoulder mentality.Scott and Connor preview the game against Miami, with Connor suggesting Miami may try to play ball control. They also discuss the impressive fan turnout for Indiana at the Rose Bowl and in Atlanta. Connor Onion, who is wearing his Homefield jacket, agrees to join the show after the game to recap, hopefully from a championship parade.

Galen Clavio is joined by Matt Dollinger of The Ringer for a thoughtful conversation about the nature of Indiana football fandom—where it's been, why this moment feels different, and how decades of shared memory shape the way Hoosiers are experiencing a historic run.They dig into Matt's recent Ringer piece on Curt Cignetti and the Hoosiers, unpacking the emotional throughline of Indiana fandom, the weight of long-suffering loyalty, and what it's like when a program suddenly flips the script on the national stage. The discussion also explores how culture, belief, and perspective have changed around IU football—and why this season resonates beyond wins and losses.

Indiana defeats Oregon 56-22 in the CFP Semifinal, and is now one win away from the program's first-ever national title in Football. Galen and Scott break down the entire weekend, including Indiana's takeover of Atlanta, the Hoosiers' dominance over the Ducks, and more.

Galen Clavio is joined by Taylor Lehman (Bite Sized Bison) for a numbers-driven preview of Indiana vs Oregon in the Peach Bowl CFP semifinal. After a few quick Atlanta travel/event notes, they dive straight into the matchup: what Indiana's 38–3 Rose Bowl win over Alabama revealed schematically, what Oregon showed (and didn't show) against Texas Tech, and why this rematch is a completely different puzzle than the first meeting. They break down how Indiana's defense adjusts without Stephen Daley and Kellen Wyatt, what it means if Indiana can't recreate the same pressure avalanche on Dante Moore, and how Bryant Haines may use structure and simulated pressure to limit explosives. On the other side, they examine how Indiana's offense has evolved since October—Fernando Mendoza's leap, the emergence of Charlie Becker as a true vertical threat, the steady presence of Elijah Sarratt and Omar Cooper, plus why Roman Hemby and Kellen Black are so difficult to game-plan for. Then it's chart time: SP+ / efficiency indicators, trench matchups, red-zone keys, and a final prediction for a game that could decide the national title favorite.

Galen Clavio is joined by Olivia Ray (ABC 57) as Indiana turns the page from a historic Rose Bowl performance and prepares for the Peach Bowl CFP semifinal vs Oregon. They discuss what it was like on the ground in Pasadena, why Curt Cignetti had the Hoosiers locked in like it was a business trip, and how Indiana's physicality completely flipped the “brand” expectations heading into the game. They also dig into why Indiana's defense keeps surviving injuries and still playing at an elite level under DC Bryant Haines, and how the Hoosiers stay hungry even after stacking wins. Finally, they look ahead to the Oregon rematch: what changes, what doesn't, and why IU's mentality makes this team different.

It's Peach Bowl week, and Galen Clavio is joined by Rhett Lewis for a full preview of Indiana vs Oregon in the CFP semifinal. They start with the Atlanta logistics (including the Homefield “Can't Miss Kickoff Tour” Peach Bowl party and Stampede to Atlanta details), then dive into what Indiana's Rose Bowl beatdown of Alabama revealed — especially dominance in the trenches, the run-game structure that unlocked Fernando Mendoza, and how Indiana's defense controlled the game plan around Ty Simpson.From there, the focus turns to the rematch: why stopping Oregon's run is still the central problem, what changed since the first Indiana–Oregon meeting, and how IU's pressure plan may evolve given the current personnel realities (including the absence of Stephen Daley and Kellen Wyatt). Plus: crowd/venue dynamics in Atlanta, portal-era distractions for opponents, and the handful of “small edges” that can decide a semifinal.

Galen Clavio is joined by Courtney Cronin (ESPN) for a wide-ranging conversation as Indiana prepares to face Oregon in the Peach Bowl CFP semifinal—coming off IU's dominant Rose Bowl win over Alabama.They talk about the Indiana football phenomenon (and why this surge feels sustainable under Curt Cignetti), the national discourse surrounding IU and the SEC, how the sport is changing in the transfer/NIL era, and what it's been like watching Indiana turn into a true national football brand.They also discuss the fan takeover in Pasadena, why “brand mystique” doesn't match what's actually on film, and wrap with a big-picture look at Fernando Mendoza's Heisman moment—plus what his skill set could look like at the next level.

Galen Clavio is joined by Rhett Lewis of The Big Red Carpet and Trent McGee of the Kirkwood & Dunn podcast to talk about the first wave of Indiana's 2026 portal haul, including discussions about the addition of QB Josh Hoover, WR Nick Marsh, and many more players.

Indiana is the Rose Bowl champions — and Galen Clavio and Scott Caulfield finally get to sit down for the full, official breakdown after an unforgettable trip to Pasadena and a 38–3 demolition of Alabama in the CFP quarterfinal.They relive the week in L.A. (including the parade/rain chaos and just how completely IU fans took over the city), then dive into what made the win so overwhelming: Indiana's commitment to the run with Roman Hemby and Kaelon Black, Fernando Mendoza's surgical efficiency, and a defense that played with violence and discipline while forcing Alabama into desperation mode under Kalen DeBoer and Ty Simpson.They also hit “Recite the Drives,” spotlight key performances like Charlie Becker, Elijah Sarratt, Devin Boykin, and D'Angelo Ponds, and and talk about the mental reset needed after the Rose Bowl high with Oregon (and Dan Lanning) waiting in the Peach Bowl semifinal.

Indiana wins the Rose Bowl with a dominant 38-3 victory over Alabama. We should talk about it!

A late night live podcast on December 30, talking Indiana vs Alabama and answering listener questions.

Galen Clavio delivers a full Indiana vs Alabama preview as the Hoosiers head to Pasadena for the Rose Bowl CFP Quarterfinal.After a quick update on the Stampede To Pasadena Road Trip and other Rose Bowl events, Galen dives into the matchup using advanced statistics and trendlines—what Alabama has (and hasn't) been consistently this season, why Indiana's profile looks so strong across opponent-adjusted metrics, and where the game will swing in the trenches. He breaks down the schedule/strength-of-record debate, what we learned from Alabama's win over Oklahoma, and the biggest tactical pressure points: Indiana's need to establish the run with Kaelon Black and Roman Hemby, Alabama's path to disruption via pressure on Fernando Mendoza, and how Indiana's defense under Bryant Haines can challenge Ty Simpson and Alabama's receiving threats (Germie Bernard, Isaiah Horton, Ryan Williams, Josh Cuevas)—with D'Angelo Ponds and Louis Moore spotlighted on the back end. Plus: the latest Rose Bowl weather outlook and what rain could change (and who it might favor). - Sponsored by Homefield Apparel. Happy 10th anniversary to the Good Brand! Use HOME23 for 15% off your first order.- The Stampede to Pasadena Road Trip is brought to you in part by Bluegrass Toasted Oak Tournament of Roses bourbon, which was produced in partnership with the Pasadena Tournament of Roses! Indiana residents can get it shipped to them directly via several retailers. Drink Responsibly.

GC brings you the annual Holiday Mailbag episode. Audience questions vary widely (as they always do) but include topics such as: Whether basketball's success is impacted by football Early bracketology for men's hoops and what they need to do to get to the tournament Recent libations that Galen has enjoyed The ideal menu for a Christmas tailgate Updates on recent cooking escapades Advice to Indiana football fans on how to talk with fans of blue blood programs Injury updates prior to the Rose Bowland much more. Happy Holidays!

On CrimsonCast Ep. 1293, Galen Clavio and Scott Caulfield react to Indiana football's national breakout moment on 60 Minutes and what it says about the program's new place in the sport — including the small details that made the segment resonate with a broader audience.Then it's full Rose Bowl / College Football Playoff quarterfinal mode as Indiana draws Alabama. The guys break down what the Crimson Tide look like right now, including QB Ty Simpson, Alabama's passing game strengths, questions in the run game, and which personnel Indiana must account for. They also discuss the coaching chess match, including Kalen DeBoer and DC Kane Wommack, and why Indiana's structure under OC Mike Shanahan and DC Bryant Haines translates well to a neutral-site playoff environment.Finally, Galen and Scott step back to evaluate the College Football Playoff after another round of lopsided results — debating access, perception, and why “who belongs” conversations often reveal more about bias than football.

It's a CrimsonCast x The Big Red Carpet crossover as Galen Clavio and Rhett Lewis break down the first three College Football Playoff games—with the deepest focus on Alabama's 34–24 comeback win at Oklahoma and what it tells us about the Tide heading into the Rose Bowl CFP quarterfinal vs Indiana. They discuss what worked (and what still looks vulnerable) for Alabama, how Indiana's defense under Bryant Haines can create problems, and the biggest chess-match elements—especially with IU adjusting up front without Stephen Daley. The guys also hit the rest of the bracket: Miami's 10–3 win over Texas A&M and Ole Miss' 41–10 win over Tulane (and what those results suggest about the next round). Plus: live audience questions, injury updates, portal/roster-building discussion, and Pasadena meetup plans leading into Rose Bowl week.

Galen Clavio opens the show with a handful of Indiana football news items as the Hoosiers await their Rose Bowl / CFP quarterfinal opponent — including the wild scene at Memorial Stadium's rally towel distribution, reflections on Fernando Mendoza's Heisman win, and why keeping coordinator continuity (including Mike Shanahan's extension and Bryant Haines on defense) matters for sustaining IU as a national power. Then Galen is joined by former On3 reporter Andy Wittry for a wide-ranging conversation about the college football landscape: Utah's groundbreaking private-capital partnership and what it could mean for athletic departments nationally, the Big 12's reported pursuit of private capital, the growing financial squeeze (including high-profile student-fee debates), and how the CFP is evolving amid ongoing political pressure from major brands like Notre Dame.

Indiana football just added another piece of history: Fernando Mendoza is the first Hoosier to win the Heisman Trophy, and Galen Clavio and Scott Caulfield unpack what the moment means for the program, the fan base, and Mendoza's place in Indiana sports lore. They also dig into the voting results and why Mendoza's biggest moments (and biggest stage) ultimately separated him from the other finalists. Then it's a hard pivot to Indiana basketball: the Hoosiers lose 72–60 at Kentucky, and the conversation turns to the team's offensive issues, foul trouble, thin margins, and what it means for the Big Ten grind ahead under Darian DeVries.

Indiana just won the Big Ten Championship and is gearing up for the College Football Playoff, but the work isn't done. Galen Clavio goes solo to break down Indiana football's week after the conference title, how the Hoosiers adjust defensively without Stephen Daley, and what potential CFP matchups vs Alabama or Oklahoma might look like schematically. Galen also dives into the national college football drama:The Notre Dame–ACC war of words after the Irish were left out of the CFP, including AD Pete Bevacqua's public shots at the league and calls for format changes. ACC commissioner Jim Phillips pushing for immediate CFP expansion after the controversy. The Heisman race between Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza and Vanderbilt's Diego Pavia, who has become the media's SEC-fueled alternative.Michigan's ugly situation around former coach Sherrone Moore, and what it says about culture, leadership, and how quickly an athletic department can lose controlPlus: bracket talk, how Bryant Haines' defense solves problems like a Roman legion, why Indiana's portal strategy is pure Moneyball, and what the sport's power brokers are really doing with the playoff going forward.Subscribe for more Indiana football, CFP breakdowns, and Big Ten realignment drama all postseason.

Indiana University football are Big Ten Champions for the first time since 1967 — and Galen Clavio and Scott Caulfield break down every emotional, unforgettable moment of IU's 13–10 win over Ohio State.From the defensive masterpiece, to Charlie Becker's iconic championship catch, to Curt Cignetti's program-defining statement, the guys look at how Indiana out-toughed, out-executed, and out-adjusted one of college football's modern giants.They also discuss:– Why IU's fans will remember this night forever– The statistical backbone of the victory– Key plays that flipped the game– How this team's identity has evolved– What the Big Ten title means for IU's future and the upcoming CFPPresented by Homefield Apparel and Posh Hotel Bloomington.Subscribe for Rose Bowl & CFP previews all week.