Indiana's 22-Game Winning Streak Ends on Inches in Heartbreaking Loss to Ohio State

Indiana’s remarkable 22-game winning streak in college football came to a heartbreaking end Saturday with a 19-15 loss to Big Ten rival Ohio State. The Hoosiers’ chance at a second consecutive perfect season was dashed by a matter of inches when a potential game-winning touchdown reception was ruled out of bounds.

With just over a minute remaining and trailing by four points, Indiana quarterback Josh Hoover attempted a fourth-and-4 pass from the Ohio State 27-yard line into the end zone. Receiver Nick Marsh secured the catch near the sideline of the end zone, appearing to have scored the go-ahead touchdown. However, officials determined that Marsh’s left foot landed out of bounds upon making the reception. The incompletion gave possession back to Ohio State, who then ran out the clock to seal the victory.

The loss marked Indiana’s first defeat since the first round of the 2024-25 College Football Playoff and snapped their impressive win streak that dated back to that season. It also ended their home unbeaten streak, which had stood since November 18, 2023, when they lost to Michigan State during the final season under then-head coach Tom Allen.

Hoover, who was observed playing with a reported right arm injury, completed 20 of 40 passes for 296 yards and one touchdown in the losing effort.

On the other side, Ohio State’s Julian Sayin threw for 235 yards and two touchdowns but also had two interceptions. Sayin sustained an injury during the game and will be sidelined for several weeks, according to head coach Ryan Day. He was seen leaving the field with his right arm in a sling.

Indiana is set to play Michigan on the road in their next contest, while Ohio State will travel to face USC.