Who Does IU Football Play Today? Game Time & TV Info

By Sarah Miller · August 16, 2042

Indiana University (IU) football plays the University of Cincinnati today at 7:30 PM ET in a non-conference matchup held at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Today's IU Football Game Overview

The Indiana Hoosiers face off against the Cincinnati Bearcats today in a pivotal non-conference game. This matchup marks one of the key early-season tests for the Hoosiers as they prepare for Big Ten play. The game is scheduled to begin at 7:30 PM Eastern Time and will be broadcast live on ESPN2.

Key Details at a Glance

Date: October 15, 2025
Opponent: University of Cincinnati Bearcats
Location: Paycor Stadium, Cincinnati, OH
Kickoff Time: 7:30 PM ET
TV Network: ESPN2
Live Stream: ESPN.com, ESPN App
Betting Line: IU favored by 3.5 points

Season Context and Team Performance

The 2025 season has seen Indiana enter with momentum from their 8-win campaign in 2024. Under head coach Curt Cignetti, the Hoosiers have emphasized offensive innovation and defensive discipline. Today’s game against Cincinnati presents an opportunity to improve their non-conference record and build national ranking credibility.

Why This Game Matters

Strength-of-schedule boost for College Football Playoff considerations
Test against an American Athletic Conference (AAC) contender
Midweek game could impact player recovery ahead of Big Ten matchups
Recruiting implications in the Midwest region

Player Matchups to Watch

Several individual battles will influence the outcome of tonight’s contest:

Kurtis Rourke vs. Cincinnati Secondary: The IU quarterback returns healthy and aims to exploit Cincinnati’s pass defense, which allowed 240 yards per game last season.
Defense vs. QB Deshaun Brown: Cincinnati’s young signal-caller will test Indiana’s experienced linebacker unit.
Special Teams Battle: Both teams rank in the top 40 nationally in punt return efficiency.

Statistic	Indiana Hoosiers	Cincinnati Bearcats
Points Per Game	32.4	26.8
Total Yards Per Game	442.1	395.6
Rushing Yards Per Game	189.3	164.2
Pass Efficiency Rating	162.4	148.7
Third Down Conversion %	47.1%	39.6%
Turnover Margin	+5	+1

Table data source:1, 2

The statistical comparison shows Indiana holds advantages in scoring, total offense, and turnover management. Their higher third-down conversion rate suggests superior offensive execution, which could be decisive in critical moments. Cincinnati will need to pressure Rourke and control the clock to stay competitive.

Injury Report and Depth Chart Impact

As of October 14, 2025, IU reports no major injuries affecting starters. Cornerback Darius Lacey remains day-to-day with a minor ankle sprain but is expected to play in a limited role. Cincinnati, meanwhile, will be without starting center Trey Hill, potentially disrupting their offensive line cohesion.

Fan Attendance and Travel Information

An estimated 12,000 IU fans are traveling to Cincinnati for the game. Buses departed Bloomington at 8 AM from Bill Armstrong Stadium. Limited single-game tickets remain available through the IU Athletics box office and verified resale partners.

Common Questions About IU Football Today

Who does IU football play today?

Indiana University plays the University of Cincinnati today at 7:30 PM ET at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio.

What channel is IU football on today?

The game will be televised on ESPN2 and streamed live via the ESPN app and ESPN.com with valid authentication.

Is the IU vs. Cincinnati game sold out?

No, the game is not sold out. Limited tickets are still available through the official IU athletics website and authorized resellers.

What is Indiana’s current record in 2025?

As of October 15, 2025, the Indiana Hoosiers have a 4-1 record, with wins over Western Illinois, Iowa, Ball State, and Michigan State, and a loss to Ohio State.

Has IU ever played Cincinnati before?

Yes, Indiana and Cincinnati have met twice previously, splitting the series 1-1. Their last meeting was in 2017, with IU winning 24–14 in Bloomington.