Indiana coach Curt Cignetti responded to TCU coach Sonny Dykes' criticism of transfer quarterback Josh Hoover's high turnover numbers. Cignetti backed his new QB while acknowledging the turnover concerns that Dykes highlighted when discussing his former player's 42 turnovers in 31 starts at TCU.

Hoover transferred to Indiana after compiling impressive stats at TCU with 9,629 passing yards and 71 touchdowns despite the turnovers. The senior originally committed to Indiana in 2021 before signing with TCU, creating an interesting full-circle moment as he replaces Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza at the school that initially recruited him.

Cignetti emphasized Hoover's overall body of work and suggested Indiana's strong running game and defense would help reduce turnovers. With Indiana ranking 12th nationally in rushing and fourth in total defense last season during their undefeated national championship run, the coach believes this environment will create better conditions for Hoover than what he experienced at TCU, where the program ranked 100th in rushing and 73rd in defense.