Indiana Football: Athlon Sports’ two Hoosiers who could be wildcards in 2019

Athlon sports released their Big Ten wildcard players for 2019. Find out which two Indiana football players were included.

The Big Ten conference is as strong as ever, but could even be as open as ever for anyone to take the conference crown. Ohio State is going through transition with a new head coach and quarterback in Ryan Day and Justin Fields, Michigan has yet to break through and lose a lot defensively, Penn State loses Trace McSorely, Michigan State is looking to have a healthy Brian Lewerke, and Nebraska has a Heisman candidate in Adrian Martinez.

Where does that leave Tom Allen and the Indiana football program? They look to break through and get back to a bowl game while competing near the top of the division.

Athlon Sports continues with their offseason and preseason rankings and released their wildcards for each Big Ten team for the 2019 season.

For Indiana, Peyton Hendershot and James Miller were the two picked for IU. Hedershot returns as a sophomore tight-end who caught 15 passes a season ago and could be an x-factor in the passing game that does return four quality receivers. Miller is an intriguing linebacker who was a three-star recruit that chose the Hoosiers over Florida State.

This is what Athlon Sports writer Kevin McGuire had to say regarding the two Hoosiers.

Peyton Hendershot

"“With Peyton Ramsey back at QB and two go-to receivers in Nick Westbrook and Donavan Hale, watch for the sophomore tight end to find some opportunities underneath to keep some drives moving. Hendershot appeared in 11 games last year and caught 15 passes, including two touchdowns.”"

James Miller

"“A redshirt freshman, Miller should get a chance to start for the Hoosiers this fall after a solid showing in the spring practice season. With two returning starters filling the other linebacker spots, Miller will have a veteran presence to rely on as he grows into the kind of player Indiana is hoping to see.”"

Both picks are very compelling. Because of the lethal threats Ramsey has on the outside, Hendershot could be in store for a big year as an “afterthought” and fifth option on the offensive side of the ball. With his 6-foot-4 and 256 pound frame, he is not only a big target for the redzone, but also on third down conversions.

For Miller, regardless of if he starts or not, he will be a vital player for the defense this year as someone who broke through in practice a season ago. He is a versatile linebacker whose best skill is patience. Especially at the Big Ten level, patience is extremely important with the great quarterback-running back duos. Though he isn’t necessarily super quick, he has great strength that allows him to shed blockers and get to the ball carrier.

If the Hoosiers can get good play out of the two of them, it will be a great step in the right direction for the 2019 season and for the future of Indiana football.