Indiana Football: 3 breakout players for the 2020 season

3. Michael Penix Jr.- QB

Many may think that he broke out last year and he did to a point, but we think he has not yet reached the ceiling of his potential.

Penix beat out the returning starter Peyton Ramsey last year to lead the Hoosiers and was having a very good season until he got hurt. He threw for 1,394 yards with 10 touchdowns and just four interceptions.

He found a very good rapport with Whop Philyor and with him returning, that combo should be very potent again this year. Peyton Hendershot and the above mentioned Fryfogle are also key ingredients to help make Penix job easier.

The Hoosiers are only going to go as far as Penix takes them, and most importantly he is going to have to stay healthy. If he can stay healthy he has shown he can be a handful for any opposing teams.

There are some media outlets that have already pegged him being the third-best quarterback in the Big Ten next year and that is some lofty expectations for a quarterback that played just over half the season last year.

We think that Penix has just touched on what he is capable of and will be even better next year. The hidden component that should help is if the defense can improve this year and give Penix an opportunity to be in games and lead the Hoosiers to wins.

Penix was starting to break out last year but injuries cut it short. He is ready to make the big jump and could be a dark horse offensive player of the year candidate in the Big Ten.