Big Ten Football - 2021 Indiana Hoosiers Preview
Our Indiana Hoosiers preview 2021 observes that under coach Tom Allen this team has improved vastly over the past four seasons. In his first three years, the Hoosiers went 16-21, winning 43 percent of their games. In the past two seasons, Indiana has won 14 and lost seven, giving them a win rate of 67 percent. In 2019, after a two-year hiatus from postseason play, they went to the Gator Bowl and in 2020, the seventh-ranked Hoosiers appeared in the Outback Bowl. However, despite this resurgence, it’s been 30 years since Indiana has won a postseason game. That was 1991 when they beat Baylor 24-0 in the Copper Bowl. That win came under coach Bill Mallory.
Indiana Offense
Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. possesses sound decision-making skills, excellent passing chops, and a strong arm and quick release. Last season, he tossed 14 TDs and just four INTs. His major issue has been his health. Each of his three seasons at Indiana, Penix has been unable to finish. Presently, he’s recuperating from ACL surgery, but should be ready for the fall. There’s plenty of talent on the receiving unit. Senior Ty Fryfogle returns after making 37 receptions for 721 yards and seven scores. Sophomore Miles Marshall, who started last season, is also back, while Florida State transfer D.J. Mitchell, a former four-star recruit, comes to the Hoosiers with 84 catches and five TDs over three Seminole seasons. Tight end Peyton Hendershot, who in 2020 caught 23 passes and scored four times, is another solid outlet.
Sophomore running back Sampson James takes over for Stevie Scott who last season rushed for 561 yards and scored 10 TDs. In 2020, James ran the ball 32 times for 104 yards and averaged 3.0 YPA. He’s faster than Scott and has better breakaway speed but has difficulty running between tackles. Four-of-five starters return to the O-line, which is joined by Michigan transfer Zach Carpenter. This unit was problematic last season and needs to show improvement.
Indiana Hoosiers Preview 2021 - Defense
Last season, the Indiana D was strong versus the run but weak in defending the pass. Although, they did lead the Big Ten in sacks with 25. In 2020, we expect the same from the front seven and improvement when it comes to the back four. The frontline includes Ole Miss transfer Ryder Anderson at end with D.K. Bonhomme on the other end. The inside includes Demarcus Elliot and Sio Nofoagatoto’a. This is a seasoned and talented group.
Top tackler Micah McFadden returns at LB as does the talented Cam Jones. In 2020, McFadden recorded 58 tackles, six sacks, 4.5 TFL, and two picks. Jones was good for 35 tackles, three sacks, four TFL, and three PBU. They’re the top unit in the conference. There’s depth at corner with Tiawan Mullen, who record three interceptions, four PBU, and 3.5 sacks, returning, as well as Reese Taylor (1 INTs, 7 PBU, 3 TFL) and Jaylin Williams (4 INTs, 1 PBU, 2 QBH). Devon Matthews (40 TKLs, 1 INT, 6 PBU) is solid at strong safety, while at free safety, Raheem Layne replaces the dominant Jamar Johnson who decided to leave early for the NFL.
Specialists
Our Indiana Hoosiers preview 2021finds that this unit is sound. Last season, placekicker Charles Campbell hit 10-of-11 field goals, including three from 50-plus yards. He was 25-of-25 on extra points. James Evan joins the team from New Zealand as punter. The speedy Matthews will bring back punts, which was one of his duties at Florida State. He has touchdown potential. Sophomores Jacoby Hewitt and David Ellis will handle kickoffs once again.
Indiana Hoosiers Preview 2021 - Projection
We expect the Hoosiers to be in the postseason. But will their next bowl win still elude them? They’ve lost six bowl games since that last win and half of those losses have been under coach Allen. Our Indiana Hoosiers preview 2021 sees this team as excelling on offense in the air but struggling on D. That won’t help their chances in the postseason.
Big Ten Football - Indiana Hoosiers 2021 - Predictions:
Third Place - Big Ten East
Las Vegas Bowl – vs. USC