Indiana football reaches new heights in dominant win vs. Michigan
#13 Indiana football dominated #23 Michigan 38-21 to become 3-0
For the first time since 1987 Indiana football is in the “W” column versus Michigan. The Hoosiers defeated the Wolverines in a 38-21 in a proper smackdown at Memorial Stadium. The Hoosiers played a solid first two games of the season, but game three showed what this team is really made of. The offense was absolutely dominant and the defense made winning plays that closed the game down the stretch.
The Michael Penix Jr. to Ty Fryfogle connection was scorching hot in this game. Fryfogle was dominant in the first quarter, catching two impressive balls while being smothered by his defender. He finished with seven receptions for 142 yards and a touchdown.
Penix Jr. had his first complete game of the season and looked the part of an elite Big Ten quarterback. His efficiency wasn’t fantastic (60% completion rate), but he threw for 342 yards, 3 touchdowns, and no interceptions. Stevie Scott got it done on the ground for the Hoosiers. He finished with 97 yards and two touchdowns.
As the stats show, it was a dominant offensive performance for the Hoosiers in every way. With the talent on this roster, that can be expected every game. What set this game apart was the defense and mental fortitude of Tom Allen’s team.
The defense was absolutely stellar today. Jaylin Williams and Devon Matthews both had fourth quarter interceptions that crushed all of Michigan’s momentum for a potential comeback. Reese Taylor was fantastic as well, recording seven tackles and a sack.
No one can deny Allen’s ability to coach, but there were far too many mental errors last season for the Hoosiers. Indiana ranked dead last in the Big Ten last season in penalties. Even just last season, the Hoosiers would commit mental errors that would cost them in big games.
Against Michigan, they committed only 4 penalties and finished with 0 turnovers. If the Hoosiers can maintain this discipline and not beat themselves, there isn’t a ceiling on what they can accomplish.
The Hoosiers are 3-0 in conference play for the first time since 1988, and will most likely be ranked in the top 10 next week. Reese Taylor said after the game that he believes Indiana should be number one in the country. That may be a bit of a stretch, but it sends a message. This team is good, and they believe they can beat anybody. I have no reason not to believe the same thing.
Indiana
Total yards: 460
Passing yards: 342
Rushing yards: 118
Penalties: 4-50
Turnovers: 0
Michigan
Total yards: 357
Passing yards: 344
Rushing yards: 13
Penalties: 8-89
Turnovers: 2
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