The Seven Key James Madison Transfers Who Shaped Indiana's Championship
The remarkable journey of seven players who transitioned from James Madison to Indiana, ultimately leading the Hoosiers to a national championship.
After a thrilling victory in the College Football Playoff National Championship against Miami, head coach Curt Cignetti beamed while holding the championship trophy, a rare sight given his normally stoic demeanor. His team, predominantly comprised of players he brought from James Madison, surprised everyone by achieving a perfect season.
In 2023, as James Madison transitioned to the FBS and was denied postseason eligibility, Cignetti’s frustration was palpable. However, when he took the helm at Indiana, the core players from that JMU squad became integral to building a national champion.
Seven of those players include:
- D’Angelo Ponds, Cornerback
- Solomon Vanhorse, Running Back
- Tyrique Tucker, Defensive Lineman
- Elijah Sarratt, Wide Receiver
- Kaelon Black, Running Back
- Aiden Fisher, Linebacker
- Mikail Kamara, Defensive Lineman
Their journey from relative unknowns to national champions exemplifies a collective spirit and resilience, culminating in a historic 16-0 season. Throughout the competition, these players showcased their extraordinary talent and contributed significantly to their team’s success, proving that their recruitment was an astute decision by Cignetti and his staff.
