Indiana Defeats No. 14 Michigan 20-15 for Record-Breaking Win Behind Kurtis Rourke's Two Touchdown Passes

Indiana Defeats No. 14 Michigan 20-15

Indiana pulled off a historic 20-15 victory over Michigan on Saturday, giving the Hoosiers their first-ever 10-win season in program history. Behind a strong performance from quarterback Kurtis Rourke, who threw two first-half touchdown passes, Indiana (10-0, 7-0 Big Ten) handed Michigan (5-5, 3-4) just their second loss to the Hoosiers since 1988. The win also kept Indiana's Big Ten title and College Football Playoff hopes alive.

Rourke led Indiana to an early 14-3 lead, connecting with Omar Cooper Jr. for a 7-yard touchdown in the first quarter and Elijah Sarratt for a 36-yard score early in the second. The Hoosiers added a 40-yard field goal before halftime, extending their lead to 17-3. Michigan's offense struggled throughout, managing only two second-half field goals—one of which was a 56-yard kick by Dominic Zvada, his fifth field goal of 50 or more yards this season.

The Wolverines did have a chance to tie the game in the fourth quarter when Kalel Mullings powered in a 1-yard touchdown run to make it 17-15. However, Michigan’s two-point conversion attempt failed after Davis Warren’s pass was batted down, keeping Indiana ahead by two points. Michigan had one final opportunity to drive for a game-tying score, but their hopes were dashed when they turned the ball over on downs at their own 42-yard line with just over a minute left.

Michigan's offense was unable to capitalize on several opportunities. Quarterback Davis Warren went 16 of 32 for 137 yards, but the Wolverines rushed for just 69 yards as Indiana’s defense stifled their attack. Despite Michigan's defense stepping up in the second half and keeping the game close, the Wolverines could not find the end zone and were forced to settle for field goals.

For Indiana, the win was another milestone in a magical season under head coach Curt Cignetti, as they celebrated in front of a sold-out crowd. Despite losing key players, including receiver Myles Price and running back Justice Ellison to injury, the Hoosiers held on to secure the upset. Michigan now faces a must-win game against Northwestern on November 23 to stay in contention for a bowl berth.

Indiana Defeats No. 14 Michigan 20-15 for Record-Breaking Win Behind Kurtis Rourke's Two Touchdown Passes