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Heartbreak & Hope: Notre Dame Falls Short + Colts’ Bold Hire & Pacers in Paris

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Heartland Scoop
January 22, 2025

TOGETHER WITH

Indiana's sports scene is buzzing as we start the week, and there's no shortage of drama to dissect. Notre Dame fell just short in their quest for a national championship, leaving fans with a mix of pride and heartbreak. Meanwhile, the Colts are making moves with a new defensive coordinator hire, setting the stage for the next chapter in Indy’s football story.

On the hardwood, the Pacers are heading in Paris for some international action, while Indiana and Purdue gear up for pivotal basketball games as the race for Big Ten supremacy heats up.

We have all the highlights, headlines, and analysis to keep you informed. Let’s dive in!

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Notre Dame Football

Notre Dame feels angry and motivated after loss of College Football Playoff national title game

Notre Dame’s 34-23 loss to Ohio State in the national championship left players frustrated but fired up. “We beat ourselves,” said receiver Jordan Faison, while senior Howard Cross III declared the program had “sent shockwaves” through college football. Head coach Marcus Freeman’s steady leadership has the Irish closing the gap on top teams, highlighted by playoff wins over Georgia and Penn State. With lessons learned and a chip on their shoulder, Notre Dame believes 2025 could be their year to reclaim the crown.

Notre Dame football coach Marcus Freeman explains reasoning on fourth-down decision amid comeback

Notre Dame’s bold fourth-down strategies, a season-long strength, faltered in their 34-23 championship loss to Ohio State. A failed fake punt in the third quarter and a missed fourth-and-goal decision loomed large, with head coach Marcus Freeman opting for a field goal on a critical fourth-and-9 that hit the upright. While Riley Leonard delivered key fourth-down conversions earlier, the Irish couldn’t sustain the momentum. Despite a perfect 2-for-2 on two-point conversions, the missed opportunities underscored Notre Dame’s struggles to keep pace with the Buckeyes' explosive offense.

Indianapolis Colts

Colts hiring ex-Bengals assistant Lou Anarumo as new defensive coordinator

The Colts have hired former Bengals DC Lou Anarumo to overhaul a defense that slid to 29th in total yards allowed in 2024. Anarumo replaces Gus Bradley after struggling in his own final Bengals season, where Cincinnati’s defense faltered despite Joe Burrow’s MVP-caliber campaign. Known for his past defensive successes, Anarumo’s hiring signals Shane Steichen’s push to build a complementary, playoff-caliber Colts team in 2025.

Colts hire former Bengals coach Lou Anarumo as the franchise's next defensive coordinator

The Colts have hired former Bengals defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, a highly respected defensive mind known for his creative, quarterback-confounding schemes. His arrival signals a dramatic shift in Indianapolis' defensive philosophy, moving toward more diverse coverage and aggressive looks—something fans have long awaited. Expect significant personnel changes to align with Anarumo’s vision, as the Colts appear ready to pair a bold defensive overhaul with offseason action.

Anthony Richardson entering a proving ground with Colts

After a rocky 2024 season marked by injuries and regression, Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson enters 2025 with his future in Indianapolis under scrutiny. Richardson’s completion rate plummeted to an NFL-low 47.7%, and midseason benching raised questions about his preparation. General Manager Chris Ballard plans to add a quarterback for competition, signaling urgency for improvement. Healthy and set for a full offseason, Richardson aims to refine mechanics and footwork, drawing inspiration from Josh Allen’s dramatic progression. The Colts hope Richardson can solidify himself as their franchise quarterback—or risk exploring alternatives.

Indiana Pacers

Setting the Pace: State of the Pacers with Tony East

The guys over at Setting the Pace sat down with Tony East to discuss the Pacers trip to Paris, Haliburton’s improved defense, is Siakam an all-star, what impact does Nembhard have, trade deadline expectations and more!

Pacers in Paris for pair of games against Spurs

The Indiana Pacers are in Paris for a two-game showdown with the Spurs, marking the NBA’s first pair of regular-season games in the French capital. Thursday’s game (2 p.m. ET) and Saturday’s matchup (12 p.m. ET) at Accor Arena will feature Spurs star Victor Wembanyama playing in front of a home crowd. Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton, fresh off Olympic gold in Paris, is ready for the challenge despite expecting fan favoritism for the French phenom. Tune in via FanDuel Sports Network, NBA TV, or ESPN to catch the action.

Pacers Reminded Of What They Were Missing With Aaron Nesmith Returning

After a 35-game absence due to a unique ankle injury, Aaron Nesmith made a strong return to the Pacers’ lineup in their 111-100 win over the Pistons. Starting in place of suspended Bennedict Mathurin, Nesmith contributed nine points and solid defense in just over nine minutes, helping Indiana outscore Detroit during his time on the floor. His three-and-D skills immediately added flexibility to Rick Carlisle’s lineups, as Nesmith’s presence brought balance and defensive intensity. With lineup decisions ahead, the Pacers are thrilled to have their versatile wing back in action.

Upcoming

  • Today: Paris vs. Spurs

  • Saturday, 1/25: Paris vs. Spurs

Indiana University

Mike Woodson media availability ahead of Northwestern roadtrip

Mike Woodson had his first pregame media availability in almost two months, as Indiana hits the road to take on Northwestern tonight.

In the media availability, he discussed Mgbako’s struggles, the emergence of Luke Goode, and the health status of Bryson Tucker and Malik Reneau.

‘I’m willing to go to war with him’: Mike Woodson has full trust in Trey Galloway

Indiana head coach Mike Woodson has no doubts about Trey Galloway’s effort, despite an inconsistent season that’s seen his numbers dip and fans grow frustrated. Averaging 7.2 points and 4.1 assists per game, Galloway has battled through a tough return from knee surgery and occasional struggles like a zero-point outing against Iowa. After being benched against Ohio State, Galloway bounced back with a solid all-around game, earning Woodson’s continued trust. “He’s had ups and downs, but I’m willing to go to war with him every time,” Woodson said, confident Galloway’s hustle will keep helping the Hoosiers.

We've Seen This Before: Assessing the Current State of Indiana Basketball

Hosts Bob Moats and Mike Wiemuth analyze the current situation regarding Indiana basketball and the noise around head coach Mike Woodson. What can history teach us about how these situations play out?

Upcoming

  • Tonight: Away at Northwestern

  • Sunday, 1/26: Home vs. Maryland

Purdue

Big second half lifts Ohio State past No. 11 Purdue

Ohio State stunned No. 11 Purdue in Mackey Arena, snapping the Boilermakers' 26-game home win streak with a 73-70 comeback. Down 16 in the first half, the Buckeyes shot 67% in the second, led by Micah Parrish’s 22 points and clutch shooting. Trey Kaufman-Renn’s 26 points weren’t enough as Purdue’s defense crumbled, and missed opportunities sealed their fate.

Trey Kaufman-Renn Named Big Ten Player of the Week

Trey Kaufman-Renn continues to shine for Purdue, picking up his second Big Ten Player of the Week award this season after being named the Naismith Player of the Week earlier in the day. Kaufman-Renn averaged 21 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 2 assists in a perfect 2-0 West Coast road trip, highlighted by a 23-point, 11-rebound performance in a win over No. 13 Oregon. He also went 9-for-9 from the free-throw line, addressing a previous weakness. With Kaufman-Renn firing on all cylinders, Purdue fans have plenty to be excited about.

Upcoming

  • Friday, 1/24: Home vs. #21 Michigan

  • Friday, 1/31: Home vs. Indiana

Butler

Butler Pushes No. 19 UConn to the Edge, Falls in Overtime

No. 19/18 UConn edged Butler 80-78 in overtime at the XL Center, improving to 14-5 on the season. Jahmyl Telfort’s 25 points kept Butler in it, but UConn’s Solo Ball led with 23 points, including key late baskets. Despite two final three-point attempts by Butler, UConn held on, maintaining their perfect 11-0 record against the Bulldogs.

Upcoming

  • Saturday, 1/25: Home vs. Depaul

  • Tuesday, 1/28: Home vs. Marquette

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Until next time,

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