BLOOMINGTON — Indiana University quarterback Kurtis Rourke has been awarded the prestigious Jim Cornish Trophy, which honors the top Canadian player in college football. Rourke’s remarkable 2024 season, which saw him lead the Big Ten in passing touchdowns and passer rating, earned him the accolade after a standout performance that included 3,042 passing yards and 29 touchdowns, with just five interceptions.
Rourke’s impressive numbers solidified his reputation as one of the nation’s top quarterbacks. His 29 touchdowns were the most in the Big Ten, helping propel Indiana’s offense throughout the season. The trophy adds to his growing list of accolades, cementing his place as one of the standout players in college football this year.
Interestingly, Rourke is not the first member of his family to win the Cornish Trophy. His older brother, Nathan Rourke, was honored in 2017 and 2018. Nathan, who also played quarterback, had a standout career at Ohio University before Kurtis made his way to Indiana. The Rourkes now have a unique family distinction as the only siblings to win the Jim Cornish Trophy.
Kurtis spent the first five years of college in Ohio, following in his brother’s footsteps before transferring to Indiana for his final season. His exceptional performance in 2024 now makes him one of the most accomplished Canadian quarterbacks in college football history.
