The Big Red Carpet

Indiana football just turned a championship season into a historic NFL Draft.On this episode of The Big Red Carpet, Rhett Lewis recaps a record-setting weekend for the Hoosiers, with eight players selected—breaking a program mark that had stood for nearly 50 years and signaling a new era for IU football.Rhett takes you pick-by-pick through the class, starting with No. 1 overall selection Fernando Mendoza and what makes him a franchise cornerstone—not just as a quarterback, but as a leader and person. From there, it’s a deep dive into every Hoosier drafted, including Omar Cooper’s first-round landing spot, D’Angelo Ponds’ perfect scheme fit, and Kaelon Black’s rise into a Day 2 selection.You’ll also get insight into why teams valued players like Elijah Sarratt, Pat Coogan, and Aiden Fisher, plus a look at undrafted free agents finding their way into NFL camps.More than a recap, this episode closes the book on Indiana’s title run—and shows just how sustainable this program’s rise might be.

It’s a CrimsonCast x The Big Red Carpet crossover as Galen Clavio and Rhett Lewis preview the NFL Draft and break down where Indiana’s championship stars could go — and what a massive draft weekend would mean for the IU football brand moving forward. They start with the headliner: Fernando Mendoza as the likely No. 1 overall pick to the Las Vegas Raiders, then run through the next wave of Hoosiers with real draft momentum — including Omar Cooper Jr., D’Angelo Ponds, Elijah Sarratt, Aidan Fisher, and more. They also discuss why IU’s developmental pipeline under Curt Cignetti and OC Mike Shanahan is now a tangible NFL selling point, and how “you can’t buy that marketing” moments change recruiting, perception, and portal choices.

Rhett Lewis sits down with Indiana center Pat Coogan for an in-depth conversation on The Big Red Carpet. Coogan reflects on his journey from Notre Dame to Indiana, breaking down the Hoosiers’ national championship season, his leadership on the offensive line, and his path to the NFL Draft.He also shares incredible insight on quarterback Fernando Mendoza, what makes him special, and the moments that defined Indiana’s historic run.Plus: Pro Day preview, spring football updates, and what’s next for IU football.🔔 Subscribe for more Indiana football coverage, interviews, and film breakdowns every week.

Rhett Lewis sits down with Indiana national champion wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. for an in-depth conversation on the latest episode of The Big Red Carpet.From his legendary Penn State game-winning catch to blazing a 4.42 forty-yard dash at the NFL Combine, Cooper reflects on his journey from Indiana breakout star to potential first-round NFL Draft pick.Rhett and Omar dive into the moments that defined Indiana’s championship season, the mindset behind his elite run-after-catch ability, and what he’s learned from playing alongside Fernando Mendoza and under Curt Cignetti.Topics include:Cooper’s mindset entering the NFL Draft processHis 4.42 Combine 40 time and the reaction afterwardWhat teams ask during NFL interviewsThe culture that fueled Indiana’s national championship runThe story behind that Penn State catchIt’s a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most electrifying playmakers in college football and a rising star preparing for the NFL.

Live from Indianapolis at the NFL Scouting Combine, Rhett Lewis and special guest Galen Clavio break down a historic moment for Indiana Hoosiers football.For the first time in program history, Indiana isn’t just sending players to the Combine — they may have the No. 1 overall pick since the 1930s.Rhett and Galen dive into:Why Fernando Mendoza is QB1 — and why the pre-draft “noise” won’t change thatThe meteoric rise of Omar Cooper as a potential first-round pickDraft projections for Elijah SarrattThe value and leadership of Pat CooganWhy D'Angelo Ponds is one of the most technically sound DBs in this classThe football IQ that makes Aiden Fisher such a valuable NFL prospectThis episode is part Combine preview, part IU draft celebration, and part inside look at how Indiana has rebuilt a legitimate NFL pipeline.The Hoosiers aren’t just participating anymore.They’re setting the tone.

Rhett Lewis delivers his first official podcast comments on last night's incredible victory for Indiana over the Miami Hurricanes, as the Hoosiers claim the first National Championship in program history.

Live from Miami, Rhett Lewis delivers the most comprehensive Big Red Carpet preview yet as Indiana Hoosiers prepare for the national championship game.After media day and direct conversations with Indiana players and coaches—as well as key voices around the sport—Rhett breaks down exactly how this game will be decided. From the battle at the line of scrimmage, to Fernando Mendoza’s historic heater, to the defensive matchups that could tilt the outcome, this is a full, no-paywall championship preview for Hoosier fans everywhere.You’ll hear:Why the trenches will decide Indiana vs MiamiHow Indiana can neutralize Miami’s elite defensive frontWhy Fernando Mendoza is built for this moment—mentally and physicallyThe defensive keys against Miami’s run-first approachRhett’s final prediction—and why he believes Indiana finishes the jobThis episode also gives previews of the exclusive Substack interviews with Todd McShay, Sage Steele, and Bill Musgrave, giving fans a taste of the deeper analysis available to subscribers.If you want to understand why Indiana is here—and how they can win it all—this is the must-watch preview before kickoff.

Rhett gives his initial thoughts on Indiana's 56-22 victory over Oregon in the Peach Bowl and the CFP Semifinal.

Live from Atlanta, Rhett Lewis is joined by former Oregon offensive lineman and NFL veteran Geoff Schwartz for a deep, honest breakdown of the Indiana–Oregon Peach Bowl rematch.The two dive into why Indiana won the first meeting in Eugene, how pressure and discipline defined the game, and what Oregon must change to flip the outcome. They also compare Fernando Mendoza and Dante Moore, discuss Oregon’s shift toward 12-personnel, Indiana’s linebacker-heavy defensive identity, and why this Hoosiers team keeps winning the biggest moments despite not being built like a traditional powerhouse.This is film-level insight, trench talk, and postseason chess-match analysis — exactly what Big Red Carpet does best.👇 Comment below: What’s the single biggest key to this rematch?

Indiana isn’t slowing down — it’s reloading.Rhett Lewis breaks down a massive day in the transfer portal as the Hoosiers continue to build on the most successful season in program history. From the expected arrival of quarterback Josh Hoover to the addition of Nick Marsh, one of the most physically imposing wide receivers in the Big Ten, Rhett explains why Indiana’s portal strategy is both aggressive and intentional.You’ll also hear insight on new edge rushers, secondary reinforcements, and how Indiana’s coaching staff is prioritizing pressure, versatility, and one-on-one matchup wins on both sides of the ball. Plus, a behind-the-scenes story involving Nick Marsh, Keyshawn Johnson, and what “get me the damn ball” really means at the highest level.This is how elite programs sustain success — and Indiana is operating like one.👇 Comment below: Which portal addition excites you the most?

On this special edition of BRC, Rhett Lewis recaps an amazing day for Indiana football as the Hoosiers defeat the Alabama Crimson Tide 38-3 to win the Rose Bowl and move on to the CFP Semifinals.

On the eve of Indiana’s first Rose Bowl appearance since 1968, Rhett Lewis delivers his final, big-picture keys for the Hoosiers’ matchup with Alabama — focusing on mindset, defensive pressure, offensive adaptability, and why Indiana’s physical identity still gives them an edge on college football’s biggest stage.Rhett explains how Curt Cignetti’s messaging keeps complacency out of the building, why stopping the run remains the non-negotiable priority, and how Bryant Haines’ pressure packages must evolve without Stephen Daley in the lineup. He also breaks down the chess match between Indiana’s offense and Alabama’s late-game man-coverage tendencies — and what that means for Fernando Mendoza, Elijah Sarratt, Omar Cooper, and Charlie Becker.Then, Rhett is joined by Indiana football legend Micah McFadden, former Hoosier linebacker and current New York Giant. McFadden shares what has impressed him most about Indiana’s defense, how the linebacker group carries the identity of the unit, and why this team reminds him of the best IU defenses he’s been part of. He also reflects on watching Indiana’s run through the Big Ten — and enjoying plenty of locker-room trash talk along the way.This is a moment worth savoring — and a standard that’s here to stay.Roll out the Big Red Carpet.

Rhett Lewis dives into Indiana’s upcoming Rose Bowl showdown with Alabama, breaking down what the tape shows from the Crimson Tide’s win over Oklahoma and where the Hoosiers can find advantages on both sides of the ball. Rhett analyzes Alabama’s defensive structure, coverage tendencies, and pressure looks — and explains how Fernando Mendoza’s processing and poise will be tested on college football’s biggest stage.Plus: a look at Indiana players headed to the NFL all-star circuit, including Elijah Sarratt’s Senior Bowl invite, Roman Hemby and Aiden Fisher heading to the East-West Shrine Bowl, and what these opportunities mean for IU’s national profile.Check out FutureFans, the fun way to welcome young fans to sports fandom: http://FutureFans.com/BigRedCarpet 🎄 A holiday edition of Big Red Carpet as Indiana marches toward Pasadena.👇 Comment below: What’s the biggest matchup advantage for IU vs Alabama?

It’s a CrimsonCast x The Big Red Carpet crossover as Galen Clavio and Rhett Lewis break down the first three College Football Playoff games—with the deepest focus on Alabama’s 34–24 comeback win at Oklahoma and what it tells us about the Tide heading into the Rose Bowl CFP quarterfinal vs Indiana. They discuss what worked (and what still looks vulnerable) for Alabama, how Indiana’s defense under Bryant Haines can create problems, and the biggest chess-match elements—especially with IU adjusting up front without Stephen Daley. The guys also hit the rest of the bracket: Miami’s 10–3 win over Texas A&M and Ole Miss’ 41–10 win over Tulane (and what those results suggest about the next round). Plus: live audience questions, injury updates, portal/roster-building discussion, and Pasadena meetup plans leading into Rose Bowl week.

History made. Fernando Mendoza is the 2025 Heisman Trophy winner — the first in Indiana football history — and Rhett Lewis takes you inside one of the most meaningful moments the program has ever experienced.Rhett reflects on the New York City ceremony, why Mendoza’s season was defined by moments (not just numbers), and how Indiana’s rise made this win feel inevitable. He breaks down Fernando’s signature throws, revisits the defining games that sealed the Heisman, and shares behind-the-scenes insight from the celebration alongside Yogi Roth and Galen Clavio.Plus: what comes next for Indiana as the Hoosiers turn their attention to the Rose Bowl and College Football Playoff, and how Big Red Carpet will continue to cover every step of the journey.👇 Comment below: Which Mendoza throw best defines his Heisman season?

Rhett Lewis checks in with Hoosier fans as Indiana continues its march toward the Rose Bowl and the College Football Playoff. Rhett previews the Heisman Trophy ceremony, explains why Fernando Mendoza’s biggest moments define this season, and outlines plans for live Substack coverage following Saturday night’s announcement.SUBSCRIBE to the Big Red Carpet SubstackRhett also addresses the toughest news of the postseason: Stephen Daley’s season-ending injury, what it means for Indiana’s defensive front, and the different schematic and personnel options available to defensive coordinator Bryant Haines heading into the playoff matchup.Plus: Substack updates, upcoming film breakdowns, and what’s next for IU during the three-week break before kickoff in Pasadena.Comment below: Drop a throw you want to see featured on the Mendoza highlight reel post in the comments!

The Indiana Hoosiers are Big Ten Champions — outright for the first time since 1945 — and Rhett Lewis takes you inside the sights, sounds, emotions, and strategy behind one of the greatest wins in IU football history.Rhett breaks down Indiana’s physical win over Ohio State, the toughness of Fernando Mendoza, the dominance of IU’s defense, and the brilliance of the coaching staff’s game plan. Plus: exclusive on-field reactions from Elijah Sarratt, Pat Coogan, Riley Nowakowski, Chandler Whitmer, Bryant Haines, Isaiah Jones, and Mikail Kamara.Then, Rhett looks ahead to the 2026 Rose Bowl, where No. 1 Indiana awaits the winner of Alabama vs. Oklahoma in the College Football Playoff.

It’s finally here. Rhett Lewis delivers a full Big Ten Championship Game preview as No. 2 Indiana prepares to face No. 1 Ohio State in the biggest matchup of the modern era. He discusses Indiana’s All–Big Ten defensive honors, the coaching stability edge heading into Saturday, and what the film shows about Ohio State’s strengths and vulnerabilities.Rhett also shares updates from the Big Red Carpet Substack, including Purdue offensive/defensive film studies, behind-enemy-lines breakdowns, and the full video scouting report for Ohio State.Plus — Rhett plays a clip from his exclusive interview with former Ohio State and NFL LB Bobby Carpenter, who breaks down Matt Patricia’s defense, Brian Hartline’s future, and how OSU will try to slow Fernando Mendoza.👇 Comment below: What’s the biggest key for Indiana to pull off the upset in Lucas Oil?

Rhett Lewis breaks down Indiana’s 56–3 demolition of Purdue, the Hoosiers’ first-ever Big Ten Championship Game berth, and what it means to cap the regular season 12–0. Rhett explains how IU dominated on the ground, overwhelmed Purdue defensively, and continued one of the most remarkable seasons in college football.He also updates fans on the Big Red Carpet Substack, with new film breakdowns (offense + defense), behind-enemy-lines Ohio State prep, and postseason content dropping throughout December.Then Rhett begins setting the stage for next weekend’s No. 1 Ohio State vs. No. 2 Indiana battle in Indianapolis — the biggest modern game in IU football history.💬 Comment below: How confident are you heading into Indy?

It’s Purdue Week on The Big Red Carpet! Rhett Lewis dives deep into what the Old Oaken Bucket means to Indiana players, coaches, and fans — past and present. He shares his own rivalry memories, looks back at legendary IU–Purdue moments, and previews this year’s matchup with a full Purdue scouting report.Plus: Rhett gives an exclusive preview of his Substack interview with IU football alumnus Mike Katic, captain of last year’s 66–0 win over Purdue, reflecting on what it felt like to raise the Bucket in the snow.💬 Drop your predictions below — how does Indiana finish the regular season?

Rhett Lewis recaps Indiana’s 31-7 win over Wisconsin, as the Hoosiers move to 11-0 for the first time in school history and keep their CFP dreams alive. He breaks down Fernando Mendoza’s record-breaking performance, a dominant second-half defensive shutout, and what makes this team one of the most complete in college football.Plus — huge news for fans: Rhett officially launches the Big Red Carpet Substack, featuring film breakdowns, behind-the-scenes access, and exclusive interviews, including a one-on-one with Super Bowl-winning coach Jon Gruden, who analyzes Mendoza’s Heisman campaign and NFL potential.Join the new substack at https://thebigredcarpet.substack.com/💬 Subscribe and comment below: Should Mendoza be the Heisman favorite right now?

Rhett Lewis recaps Indiana’s historic first-ever win at Penn State, as the Hoosiers improve to 10-0 and keep their College Football Playoff push alive. Rhett breaks down Omar Cooper’s unforgettable game-winning touchdown, Fernando Mendoza’s Heisman-level drive, and the clutch defensive stand that set it all up.Plus: analysis of Indiana’s offensive adjustments, Bryant Haines’ resilient defense, Curt Cignetti’s emotional postgame moment, and an early look at next week’s Senior Day showdown vs. Wisconsin.💬 Comment below: Was Omar Cooper’s catch the best in IU football history?

Rhett Lewis breaks down another dominant Indiana Hoosiers performance — a 55-10 road win at Maryland, the program’s largest road victory since 1988. Rhett analyzes Fernando Mendoza’s command of the offense, the ground-game explosion with 367 rushing yards, and Bryant Haines’ defense that forced five takeaways and continues to rank among the nation’s elite.Plus: updates on Aiden Fisher and Elijah Sarratt, a look at how Indiana stacks up in the first College Football Playoff rankings, and an early preview of next week’s showdown at Penn State.💬 Comment below: Should Indiana be No. 1 in the CFP rankings?

Rhett Lewis breaks down Indiana’s 56–6 demolition of UCLA — another dominant performance that cements the Hoosiers as one of the nation’s elite. Rhett highlights the brilliance of Bryant Haines’ defense, the precision of Fernando Mendoza, and the playmakers powering IU’s undefeated season.Plus: insight on Aiden Fisher’s status, the offensive fireworks from E.J. Williams, and why this team’s culture continues to raise the bar every week. Rhett and the crew also look ahead to the upcoming matchup at Maryland and what it’ll take to keep the perfect run alive.

Rhett Lewis recaps Indiana’s dominant win over Michigan State as the Hoosiers climb to No. 2 in the nation — their highest ranking ever. Rhett breaks down Fernando Mendoza’s near-perfect day, EJ Williams’ comeback story, and another strong defensive showing as IU stays unbeaten.Then, Rhett is joined by Drew Fabianich, Executive Director of the Senior Bowl, to discuss how IU stars like Lou Moore, Aidan Fisher, and Fernando Mendoza are catching the eyes of NFL scouts.🏈 Stay tuned for the full breakdown and a look ahead to next week’s showdown vs UCLA.👇 Drop your thoughts in the comments — can IU keep this run going all the way to Indy?

Rhett Lewis is joined by Indiana Athletic Director Scott Dolson to talk about the Hoosiers’ monumental road win at Oregon — and how the alignment and investment behind the scenes are powering IU football’s rise. Then Rhett breaks down the Oregon game drive-by-drive, from Fernando Mendoza’s clutch throws and Elijah Sarratt’s dominance to the defense’s game-sealing moments.Indiana isn’t just winning — it’s building something sustainable.

Rhett Lewis previews Indiana’s huge Top-10 showdown at Oregon — the Hoosiers’ toughest test yet. He revisits IU’s legendary 2004 upset in Eugene, breaks down what makes Dan Lanning and the Ducks so dangerous, and explains how Fernando Mendoza and the Hoosiers can pull off another road statement win.

Rhett Lewis recaps Indiana’s 5-0 start after a hard-fought win at Iowa. From the bizarre ending with the victory formation to Fernando Mendoza’s clutch throws and the defense stepping up shorthanded, Rhett explains why this was the kind of test IU needed before the showdown with Oregon.

Rhett Lewis recaps Indiana’s blowout win over Illinois, breaking down the blocked punt, Fernando Mendoza’s pinpoint passing, and a dominant defensive effort. Plus, a look ahead to the Hoosiers’ first Big Ten road test at Iowa — and why Curt Cignetti’s culture has this team built for consistency.

Rhett Lewis recaps Indiana’s 73–0 win over Indiana State and looks ahead to a top-10 showdown with Illinois. From Fernando Mendoza’s big-time throws to breakout performances and injury updates, Rhett breaks down the keys for IU to pull off a statement win in Bloomington.

Rhett Lewis recaps Indiana’s 56–9 rout of Kennesaw State, breaking down film on Riley Nowakowski’s blocking, Fernando Mendoza’s breakout performance, and Elijah Surratt’s three touchdowns. Plus, we spotlight IU’s three-headed rushing attack, examine Bryant Haines’ defense, and look ahead to Indiana State and Illinois.Hoosier fans — the Big Red Carpet has you covered every week.

Rhett Lewis (NFL Network) rolls out The Big Red Carpet to recap Indiana’s 27–14 Week 1 win over Old Dominion. What impressed, what needs cleaning up, and how it all sets the tone for September—plus a quick look ahead to Kennesaw State and the return of Dexter Williams to Bloomington.Highlights:Defense controlled the day outside a couple QB keepersRun game punch from Roman Hemby & Kaelon Black behind a cohesive OLRed-zone/goal-to-go miscues and the fixes IU can make fastQB growth curve: timing, rhythm, and comfort in the systemSpecial teams spark (punt return TD) and more tight end involvementBig Ten whiparound: who looked real in Week 1Kennesaw State preview: force throws, win 3rd down, keep Dex in the wellIf you’re new here, follow the show and drop your IU questions for Rhett. Hoosiers every week, smart and to the point.#iufb #IndianaFootball #Hoosiers #TheBigRedCarpet

Smart, insider analysis of IU football — every week.The debut episode of The Big Red Carpet is here! Host Rhett Lewis (NFL Network) welcomes Guy Haberman, the voice behind the legendary “Big Red Carpet” call from IU’s 2024 season. They relive that unforgettable moment and talk about what it meant for Indiana football.Rhett also breaks down his top five Hoosiers to watch in 2025, why the offensive line could set the tone, what to expect from new QB1 Fernando Mendoza, and how IU matches up with Old Dominion in the season opener.Follow now for weekly insider analysis, player spotlights, and game previews — all focused on Indiana Hoosiers football.

The Back Home Network is thrilled to welcome Rhett Lewis to the family! Rhett will be hosting a brand new show on the network. "The Big Red Carpet" will air on Monday nights at 7 PM eastern throughout football season, as Rhett brings his experience and perspective as a football analyst and former Indiana football player.