The Indiana Hoosiers put forth a dominant defensive performance in Week 2 against Howard. In total, the Hoosiers allowed just 57 total yards and 4 first downs against the Bison, while also recording 5 sacks and getting a pick-6 from linebacker Rolijah Hardy. The shutout effort made for a solid bounce back outing after struggling at times in Week 1 against North Texas.
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The Hoosier defense has been playing without both starting cornerbacks for the majority of the young season. Both Jamari Sharpe and AJ Harris suffered injuries early in Week 1, and neither has returned to the field since. However, Curt Cignetti is hoping that changes on Saturday against Western Kentucky.
AJ Harris and Jamari Sharpe eyeing a potential return in Week 3
On Monday, Cignetti spoke with the media and discussed the status of both Harris and Sharpe. “They’re day-to-day but we’re optimistic,” said Cignetti. “Sometimes the best ability is availability. We do expect Sharpe back, and we’re ready to roll.”
Based on those comments, it seems that Cignetti is more confident in Sharpe playing on Saturday afternoon than Harris, although seeing both return remains a possibility. Cignetti didn't go into further detail about Harris. In fact, according to The Daily Hoosier, Cignetti excluded Harris' name in response to two different questions about the status of the injured corners for Saturday.
Getting both starting cornerbacks back on the field would be a big boost for the Hoosier defense. With getting as healthy as possible before Big Ten play as a top priority, giving both Sharpe and Harris some reps this weekend could prove valuable. Both played limited snaps in the opener, so getting them back into the flow of the game would be an encouraging development.
Ryland Gandy and Jaylen Bell have stepped up when needed
With Harris and Sharpe both sidelined, Ryland Gandy and Jaylen Bell have been thrust into bigger roles. They've made the most of their respective chances, and Cignetti has taken notice.
“I thought Jaylen Bell has been pretty consistent," said Cignetti. "I thought he played well against North Texas. Ryland had a couple mistakes, but he’s certainly improved and he’s played a lot of football. I have a lot of confidence in both of them.” Those comments should make Hoosier fans a bit more confident in the depth of the secondary heading into Week 3.
Defensive depth remains a strength for the Hoosiers
Indiana's defensive depth appears to be a strong strength at this point in the season. The defensive line and linebacker core is riddled with proven talent and veteran leadership, while the defensive backfield has already shown valuable depth early on this season.
Obviously, much tougher competition awaits. Big Ten play is less than two weeks away for the Hoosiers, and Indiana has a handful of premier matchups against Ohio State, Michigan, USC, and Washington looming on the schedule. Week 3 against Western Kentucky provides a great opportunity to get Sharpe and Harris some much-needed reps, while also continuing to evaluate depth heading into conference play.
Kick-off between the Hoosiers and Hilltoppers is set for 4 p.m. ET on Saturday afternoon at Memorial Stadium. Injury updates for both Sharpe and Harris will be provided throughout the week as they become available.
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