INDIANAPOLIS — In a thrilling matchup, Kurtis Rourke delivered two touchdown passes in the first half, leading No. 8 Indiana to a historic 20-15 victory over their long-standing rival, Michigan. The win marked a significant achievement for the Hoosiers, who are now 10-0 overall and 7-0 in the Big Ten, as this triumph represents their first-ever 10-win season in program history.
Rourke completed 17 of 28 passes for 206 yards, guiding Indiana to a rare victory against Michigan, which they had only managed to achieve once since 1988. The Wolverines, now at 5-5 and 3-4 in the conference, struggled offensively, posting their lowest score in this enduring rivalry since a 14-10 loss to the Hoosiers in 1987. Quarterback Davis Warren was 16 of 32, throwing for 137 yards while the Michigan rushing attack was limited to just 69 yards throughout the game.
The Hoosiers established an early lead with Rourke’s 7-yard touchdown pass to Omar Cooper Jr. at the end of the first quarter. This was followed by a 36-yard scoring connection with Elijah Sarratt, which extended their lead to 14-3 early in the second quarter. Before halftime, Indiana added a 40-yard field goal, bringing the score to 17-3. Michigan managed to score two field goals in the second half—a 22-yarder after an interception at the Indiana 7-yard line and a 56-yarder that reduced the lead to 17-9 late in the third quarter. This last field goal was particularly impressive, as it was Dominic Zvada’s fifth field goal of over 50 yards this season.
With 9:35 remaining in the game, Michigan closed in on Indiana when Kalel Mullings powered through for a 1-yard touchdown run on a fourth-and-goal situation. However, the attempt to tie the game faltered as Warren’s two-point conversion pass was dropped in the end zone. Following an Indiana field goal, Michigan had another opportunity but could not convert a critical fourth-down play at their own 42-yard line.
In the aftermath, analysis highlighted Michigan’s ongoing offensive struggles, which seem to be hampering their overall performance despite a solid defensive effort, particularly in the second half. Indiana, under Coach Curt Cignetti, celebrated this crucial win in front of a sellout crowd, reinforcing hopes for a Big Ten title and a shot at the playoffs.
The game saw several key injuries, including Michigan receiver C.J. Charleston, who was carted off the field due to what appeared to be a leg issue but later returned to the sideline. Indiana’s Myles Price also exited the game in the first half after a heavy hit near the goal line. Additionally, running back Justice Ellison briefly left due to a hard hit, while cornerback Jamier Johnson received an ejection for targeting as the first half came to a close.
Looking ahead, Michigan will aim for bowl eligibility following their bye week, set to face Northwestern on November 23. On the other hand, Indiana will enjoy their second bye of the season before traveling to challenge No. 3 Ohio State on the same date.