Kirkwood and Dunn collab with College Football with Sam

Subscribe to College Football with SamMost Indiana football fans never expected national headlines, and now Fernando Mendoza is being talked about as possibly the top quarterback in the 2026 NFL draft class. But this isn't just about one player—it's a story of a program transformed from perennial underdog to media magnet, as Indiana's rise defies college football stereotypes and scheme-based dominance takes center stage.In this electrifying episode, college football analyst Sam, alongside Indiana podcast duo Kirkwood and Dunn, unpacks Indiana's jaw-dropping season, the quarterback debates, and what Mendoza's NFL prospects really mean for the Hoosiers' future. You'll discover how Indiana's coaching scheme, talent development, and strategic roster moves have propelled them to national relevance. We explore the MVP moments that redefined Indiana football’s identity, from Mendoza’s incredible plays to the program poised to disrupt recruiting hierarchies—proving that talent development beats star rankings every time.Beyond the player caps and daring schemes, we break down:Why Mendoza’s leadership and football IQ give him a clear edge over more athletic counterpartsThe critical importance of offensive line strength, defense transition, and coaching adjustments—plus how Indiana might line up against powerhouse Oregon and MichiganThe broader impact of Indiana's unique approach to talent, recruiting, and schematics that could position them for sustained success in the coming seasonsWhy missing out on elite talent could backfire, and how Indiana’s coaching innovation, led by Cignetti and Haynes, keeps them competitive against the traditional bluebloodsThis episode reveals the stakes—how ignoring Indiana's evolution risks falling behind in the recruiting arms race, and why even skeptics should reconsider their assumptions about college football's talent distribution. Perfect for die-hard fans, NFL draft followers, or anyone curious about how scheme, coaching, and culture combine to rewrite underdog stories. Guests include college football experts and Indiana insiders who dive into the “why” behind Indiana’s rapid ascent, analyzing coaching moves, roster transitions, and the program’s blueprint for future dominance. If you believe college football is more than stars—if you want to understand the smart scheming and talent development that can shake up the national landscape—then this is your must-listen episode. Indiana is just getting started, and your understanding of what’s next could change everything.Tik Tok: @kirkwoodanddunnX: @kirkwoodanddunnInstagram: @kirkwoodanddunnYouTube: @kirkwoodanddunnSpotify: @kirkwoodanddunn