Former Notre Dame offensive lineman Pat Coogan has this weekend off. That's probably for the best. He and his Indiana Hoosier teammates can prepare for their big duel with the Oregon Ducks. It's another opportunity for IU to show they're for real. If they weren't, Coogan wouldn't have left South Bend for Bloomington.
Coogan is a talented blocker who really only left Marcus Freeman and Co. because he knew he likely wasn't starting for them in 2025. By picking Curt Cignetti's crew, he managed to select a program that can head back to the playoffs, and he can lead the way. He certainly did in his new team's latest game, a hard-fought 20-15 win over Iowa.
Former Notre Dame football leader Pat Coogan thrives in crunch time
Coogan was well known at Notre Dame for his emotional speeches that spurred on his Irish teammates to victory. Last Saturday, he reportedly dipped into his familiar stash of resources to help Indiana secure the slim victory.
With just over two minutes remaining, the Hoosiers seized control and held on for a 20-15 win to stay unbeaten at 5-0. Coogan's leadership stood out as the moment that kept Indiana together. "We’re going to win this game," he told his teammates in the huddle. "This is why we train so hard. This is what we play for."
Linebacker Aiden Fisher said Coogan's words lit a fire under the group. But the former Irish star also continued to get it done with his play.
Against the Hawkeyes, Coogan started at center and played all 64 offensive snaps. Coogan did not allow any pressure in 32 pass blocking snaps. Also, the Hoosiers' rushers registered 12 carries and 48 yards (4 yards per carry) when running middle left or right, which Coogan was primarily responsible for.
Coogan is coming off a career-best season, according to the PFF grading system. He is having a new identical campaign in his first with Indiana. If he has to face off against his former Notre Dame football teammates, eventually it will be in the playoffs once again. The story has turned into something that's best for both sides.