Gideon Ituka Injury: Badgers RB Hospitalized After Scary Hit vs Indiana

A frightening moment unfolded during Wisconsin's showdown with top-ranked Indiana on November 15, 2025, as standout running back Gideon Ituka suffered a significant injury that halted play and sent him to the hospital. The redshirt freshman's exit came after a brutal sequence of hits against the Hoosiers' defense, leaving the college football community concerned about his condition.

The Incident: A Sequence of Devastating Hits

With 8:35 remaining in the third quarter and Wisconsin trailing 17-7, Ituka took a handoff at Wisconsin's 40-yard line. He initially absorbed a hit from Indiana safety Stephen Daley in the backfield but fought for extra yardage. On his second effort, linebacker Daniel Ndukwe delivered a ferocious blow that sent Ituka falling backward motionless to the turf.

Medical staff rushed immediately to stabilize Ituka's head and neck area. Players from both teams took a knee in solidarity, with the Hoosiers forming a prayer circle as Wisconsin athletic trainers worked on the fallen freshman. After being placed on a stretcher, Ituka gave two thumbs up as he was carted off the field—a small but hopeful sign for concerned fans.

Medical Response and Transport

According to field reports, Ituka's shoulder pads and jersey were removed before he was placed on the stretcher. Medical crews ensured his cervical spine was immobilized during the process. The Big Ten Network later confirmed he was transported to IU Health Bloomington Hospital for further evaluation.

"Early reports are positive," Brooke Fletcher of the Big Ten Network reported during the broadcast, noting that Ituka had movement in his extremities. While encouraging, the news leaves uncertainty about the severity of the injury and his availability for future games.

Who is Gideon Ituka?

Ituka, a 5'9", 227-pound redshirt freshman from Gaithersburg, Maryland, had emerged as Wisconsin's featured back amid multiple injuries to the position. Entering the Indiana game, he led the team with 223 rushing yards on 51 carries, including a career-high 85 yards against Oregon on October 25 and 73 yards against Washington on November 8.

His physical running style and ability to break tackles made him crucial to Wisconsin's offense. Before this season, he was a three-star recruit who appeared in every game during his freshman year, gradually increasing his role as injuries mounted.

Impact on Wisconsin's Season

Ituka's injury creates an immediate void for a Badgers team already navigating a thin running back room. Wisconsin has cycled through multiple backs this season due to injuries, and Ituka's production had stabilized the position. His absence forces Julius Davis and others to increased roles as Wisconsin prepares for its rivalry matchup against Minnesota.

The 31-7 loss to Indiana dropped Wisconsin to 7-2 on the season, but the focus now shifts beyond win-loss records to Ituka's health. Head coach Luke Fickell and the program will likely provide more updates on his condition in the coming days.

College Football Reacts

The incident drew widespread attention across the sport. Indiana players and fans showed support during the delay, while social media flooded with well wishes for Ituka. The scary moment highlights the physical toll of college football and the importance of player safety protocols.

As the Badgers regroup, they'll hope for positive news on Ituka's recovery. For now, the entire sport holds its breath, waiting for updates on the promising young back's health.