Indiana Football vs Ohio State: Breaking down skill position matchups

2 of 5

COLUMBUS, OH – AUGUST 31: Quarterback Justin Fields #1 of the Ohio State Buckeyes completes a pass to K.J. Hill #14 of the Ohio State Buckeyes for a first down in the third quarter against the Florida Atlantic Owls at Ohio Stadium on August 31, 2019 in Columbus, Ohio. Ohio State defeated Florida Atlantic 45-21. (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images) /

Quarterbacks:

Could these two freshmen turn the Ohio State – Indiana matchup back into a rivalry? I think so.

Michael Penix enters as the new starter for Indiana and has a certain swag and confidence that no Indiana QB has had in nearly a decade. His ability to stretch the field with his arm strength while still being able to create plays with his legs, is a beautiful combination to have, and a welcomed sight.

Penix ranks fifth in the conference in passing yards (523) through two games, despite not playing the entire second half in Indiana’s week two matchup. Not only is he able to get the ball to his playmakers, he is making sure to spread out the ball. Currently, 11 players have at least two catches, with five players scoring at least one touchdown. He has also chipped in 79 yards on the ground.

For Justin Fields, the incoming transfer is another star under center for the Buckeyes, and so far he has lived up to the hype.

Through two games, Fields has thrown for 458 yards, six touchdowns, and zero interceptions. Currently, Fields has the second best quarterback rating in the conference at 192.5. Only 12 incompletions on the year, Fields is still averaging 9.2 yards per attempt.

This will be the first big matchup for both QB’s but should be a terrific time watching them sling it all over the field.

Position Advantage: Tied

Home/Indiana Football