No. 25 Indiana recently achieved a remarkable 5-0 victory against Rutgers, marking their strongest performance against a Big Ten opponent this season. Despite this impressive win, the Hoosiers fell short of qualifying for the Big Ten Tournament after UCLA upset Washington, clinching the final spot in the conference tournament.
Typically, a fifth-place finish and no tournament appearance would be disheartening for a program with the prestige of Indiana’s soccer team. However, head coach Todd Yeagley and his players are striking a decidedly optimistic tone.
“It’s all controllable at this point for us,” Yeagley remarked after the match, acknowledging the disappointment of missing out on a chance for another trophy. “But the biggest one is the most important, and always will be for our program,” he emphasized, referring to the national tournament.
The Hoosiers seem to view their lack of participation in the conference tournament as an opportunity rather than a setback. Their collective mindset is that with a tough schedule behind them, they are well-prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. “With the strength of schedule that we’ve played, there’s no doubt in our minds that we’re battle tested,” said forward Palmer Ault. “(We’re) IU soccer; we’re expected to win.”
Yeagley believes that this Indiana squad has already accomplished enough, suggesting that sitting out of the conference tournament could help them maintain their momentum: “We could’ve gone there and won it and been a top-four seed. But at the same time, I think we’re in a great spot.”
Boasting a commendable résumé, Indiana has secured three victories against ranked teams and currently ranks sixth in the nation for scoring, averaging more than two goals per game, and stands ninth in the RPI. Yeagley noted that their participation in the Big Ten Tournament would likely not enhance their standing.
The Hoosiers recently got the competitive edge they needed to prepare for the national tournament following a tough 2-0 loss to Northwestern, a performance that Yeagley interpreted as essential for their growth. “They’re a little upset in a good way. I like that,” he stated, seeing their frustration as a positive motivator.
With the big win against Rutgers, Indiana players are gaining confidence at precisely the right moment. Ault is on a tear, highlighted by his nation-leading 16 goals as he continues his pursuit of the MAC Hermann Trophy. Additionally, goalkeeper Holden Brown achieved Indiana’s first clean sheet in conference play, solidifying the team’s strong performance alongside contributions from teammates Clay Murador and Colton Swan.
As the Hoosiers continue to check all the necessary boxes—form, confidence, and effective teamwork—they are eager to see who their next opponent will be. That information will come on November 17, marking the next step in their journey toward a ninth national championship, a goal that inspires the entire program.