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With each ing day, the Heisman Trophy race becomes tighter and tighter. Candidates like Cam Ward and Travis Hunter strengthen their cases with each successful or touchdown. However, one recent contender is stealing the spotlight - or so Curt Cignetti claims.
While big names like Miami's Ward and Colorado's Hunter have dominated the Heisman race, the Indiana Hoosiers head coach believes redshirt senior Kurtis Rourke has what it takes to steal college football's most coveted award
With an astounding 19 touchdowns and only three interceptions in eight games, Rourke has powered Indiana to the top spot offensively in the Big Ten. His Heisman odds have shot up from +10000 to +2200, fueled by an impressive return from injury and seamless throws despite battling issues with his throwing hand.
Rourke can still pull off an upset
Of course, the competition is fierce. Ward's recent five-touchdown performance for Miami and Hunter's electrifying two-way play have kept them at the forefront of the Heisman conversation, along with Oklahoma's Dillon Gabriel.
But, in a season full of twists, Rourke's performance has ignited excitement in Bloomington, capturing attention from fans and oddsmakers alike as Indiana's Cinderella season rolls on.
The Hoosiers face a crucial test in Week 11 when they host the Michigan Wolverines at Memorial Stadium. Though Michigan's season has faltered, their storied program poses a prime opportunity for Rourke to prove himself in front of a national audience.
The Hoosiers have beaten the odds
Indiana have defied pre-season predictions, charging ahead toward a potential playoff berth. A victory over Michigan could be the statement win Cignetti's team needs to push Rourke into the thick of the Heisman race.
While Rourke remains a long shot, Cignetti believes anything is possible for his underdog team and star quarterback. With Indiana's winning streak and Rourke's rise, Cignetti's Hoosiers are shaping up to be one of college football's biggest stories.