CFB: Top 10 Indiana Hoosiers Returning For Another College Football Playoff Run

Nicolas Radicic, Kicker

Kickers can play a pivotal role in close games. While the Hoosiers did not play in many close games in 2024, they have a real weapon in sophomore kicker Nicolas Radicic. He scored 69 of his extra points and 10 of 11 on his field goals. Not only that, he kicks a tremendous onside kick.

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D’Angelo Ponds, Cornerback

D’Angelo Ponds is IU’s best cover corner, and it showed with an All-American season in 2024. Ponds had three interceptions, including a pick-six, nine pass breakups, and a blocked punt. He also added 55 tackles, with 4.5 coming for a loss. Ponds can match up with any top receiver in the country.

National Championship Odds: +10000

Mikail Kamara, Defensive Line

Mikail Kamara was a game-wrecker for the Hoosiers last season, leading IU in tackles for loss and sacks. He earned All-American honors with his performance of ten sacks and 15 tackles for loss. The Hoosiers held their breath as there was a chance Kamara would declare for the 2025 NFL Draft, but he chose to return to Bloomington for another run at the College Football Playoff.

Carter Smith, Offensive Line

Carter Smith will anchor the IU offensive line in 2025 at left tackle. He had a spectacular sophomore season, playing in all 13 games and helping IU’s offense be one of the best in the country. The Hoosiers will have a couple of starting linemen to replace next season, but Smith can help put the new pieces together and complete the puzzle.

IU 2025 Win Total: 8.5 Over (-102)/ Under(-125)

Elijah Sarratt, Wide Receiver

Elijah Sarratt earned the nickname "Waffle House," since he is always open, even when he’s not. Sarratt was an All-Big Ten receiver after coming to IU from JMU. He was the Hoosiers' go-to player when they needed a big first down or touchdown. He made 53 catches for 957 yards and eight touchdowns. It was big news for the Hoosiers when Sarratt announced he would return to the cream and crimson in 2025.

Aiden Fisher, Linebacker

Linebacker Aiden Fisher was the heart and soul of the Hoosiers' defense in 2024. He led the team in tackles with 118. Fisher will have to break in a new partner at the other linebacker position as Jailin Walker has exhausted his eligibility. The senior-to-be embodies head coach Curt Cignetti’s philosophy on the field.

Amare Ferrell, Defensive Back

Defensive back Amare Ferrell had a big sophomore season. He provided position versatility by playing either the Rover or free safety positions. He will likely stay at safety for the 2025 season. He made four interceptions and 49 tackles. Ferrell made plays in the backfield with 4.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks.

Omar Cooper, Wide Receiver

Omar Cooper had a breakout sophomore season for the Hoosiers and will move into a more significant role after grabbing seven touchdowns and rushing for one more. With the graduation of Myles Price and Ke’Shawn Williams, as well as the portal departure of Donaven McCulley, Cooper becomes the clear No. 2 receiver behind Elijah Sarratt.

Isaiah Jones, Linebacker

The Hoosiers will have to replace linebacker Jailin Walker and junior Isaiah Jones will be tasked with that opportunity. Jones played mainly in a backup role in Walker’s spot. He made 42 tackles in IU’s 13 games. He is penciled in to be the starter next to Fisher and has big shoes to fill.

Tyrique Tucker, Defensive Line

Big Ten games are won in the trenches, and IU has to revamp its defensive line after standout defensive tackle CJ West used up his final year. Tyrique Tucker was a reserve last year who produced when given a chance. IU brought in some transfer defensive linemen, but Tucker knows the system well and will play himself into more opportunities. Last season, Tucker made 24 tackles and 4.5 tackles for loss.

Nicolas Radicic, Kicker

Kickers can play a pivotal role in close games. While the Hoosiers did not play in many close games in 2024, they have a real weapon in sophomore kicker Nicolas Radicic. He scored 69 of his extra points and 10 of 11 on his field goals. Not only that, he kicks a tremendous onside kick.

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