Highlights of what President Trump said about Indiana football during White House visit

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump spoke at length about Indiana football’s perfect season Monday afternoon during a ceremony on the South Lawn at the White House honoring the team. “This was a year that will live forever in the hearts of Indiana football fans,” Trump said. “There's no story like this.

” Trump relived that journey, offering his own commentary on IU’s 16-0 season. Here’s a look at the standout moments from the President’s speech: More: 'Never bet against a guy like Curt. ' Trump celebrates Indiana football's coach Trump compares Indiana football coach Curt Cignetti to Muhammad Ali The President referenced Cignetti’s famed “Google Me” press conference as he traced IU’s path to the national title.

While Trump said he normally hates guys with “cocky” attitudes, he couldn’t help but admire Cignetti’s style . Trump compared it to the way Muhammad Ali backed up his tough talk. “Just two years later, he brought home the national championship,” Trump said.

“When you do that stuff, you have to be able to produce when you act that way. ” More: Fernando Mendoza called Trump ahead of Indiana football's White House visit Trump laughs off Indiana football’s notable absences Trump didn’t expect quite so many former Indiana football players to be busy with OTA’s in the NFL. While Fernando Mendoza’s absence made headlines last week, Trump was surprised to find out that key starters like Pat Coogan and D’Angelo Ponds weren’t in attendance either.