Indiana Football vs. Ohio State: Preview, key storylines, and prediction
Indiana Football vs. Ohio State: Key storylines and prediction
Indiana
Can the defense slow down Justin Fields?
Justin Fields has been darn-near flawless this season, but Indiana has one of the best defenses in the Big Ten. They have recorded the most interceptions and sacks in the Big Ten this season. The Hoosiers will need to add to those stats this game if they want to have a shot to win this game. It may not be possible to fully stop Fields, but they can at least try to minimize his impact on the game and force the supporting cast to make game-winning plays.
The problem is that Master Teague is perfectly capable of taking over a game as well. He rushed for 106 yards and a touchdown last season against IU.
There is no room for error when playing Ohio State. They’re so good that you have to engineer and execute your gameplan to perfection. You also have to get a little bit lucky. Hopefully the Hoosiers can slow down Fields and catch Teague on a bad day.
Ohio State
Can they shut down Michael Penix Jr.
This game is likely going to be a battle of the quarterbacks. Ohio State has a good (but not great) passing defense. Penix Jr. has had an up-and-down start to the season, but he is starting to find his groove. His game against Michigan seemed to signify that he is ready to take his play up another level, but he responded with an inferior performance against Michigan State. The only way Indiana wins this game is with the arm of its’ star quarterback.
The more attempts Penix Jr. has, the better off IU is. The best way to stop the Ohio State offense is to keep them on the sideline. If Penix Jr. gets to 50 attempts, that spells good things for the Hoosiers.
Key Players
Indiana
Michael Penix Jr. QB: 25/38, 320 yards, 2 touchdowns, 2 interceptions vs. Michigan State
Taiwan Mullen: 2 interceptions vs. Michigan State
Ty Fryfogle, WR: 11 receptions, 200 yards, 2 touchdowns vs. Michigan State
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