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Hoosiers vs Sycamores: The Last Stop Before Big Ten Gauntlet Starts

12by: CoachGriff553 hours agoX.com/HoosierTailgate
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Shannon Griffith Lead Football Analyst TheHoosier.com

Previewing the Matchup

Friday night, Bloomington lights up again as the undefeated Indiana Hoosiers (2–0) face the also-unbeaten Indiana State Sycamores (2–0). With conference play on the horizon, this in-state showdown is about more than just another win—it’s a statement.

Indiana State’s Offensive & Defensive Pulse

The Sycamores come in hot, with quarterback Elijah Owens leading the attack efficiently and runner Plez Lawrence doubling as both workhorse rusher and go-to receiver. Defensively, Kimal Clark (DB) has anchored a unit that looks to force turnovers and limit explosive plays.

Indiana State thrives on tempo, spreading the field and creating big plays. Indiana must stay disciplined and assignment-sound throughout.

What Indiana Must Do to Win

Offense:
• Rushing: Dominate with 275+ yards on the ground. Hemby, Black, and Beebe Jr. must control tempo and impose physicality. The offensive line must play physical as well.
• Passing: Mendoza must deliver 250+ yards, spreading the ball to Sarratt, Williams, Cooper, and Nowakowski while avoiding mistakes. The offensive line must provide sound and physical pass protection.
• Red Zone: Finish drives with touchdowns—not field goals.

Defense:
• Prevent explosive gains (15+ yards). Fast-moving Indiana State offense can’t get easy payoffs.
• Defensive line play with physicality
• Contain ISU to under 120 rushing yards.
• Limit passing to under 140 yards.
• Keep ISU’s scoring to 12 points or fewer.
• Force at least 3 takeaways, flipping momentum and strengthening Hoosier control.

Special Teams:
• Execute flawlessly—no coverage missteps, perfect PATs and field goals.
• Win hidden yardage with punting.
• Seek momentum-swinging impact: return, block, or spark play.

Final Take & Prediction

Hit those benchmarks—balance on offense, discipline on defense, and clean special teams work—Indiana should control this game.

Prediction: Indiana 56, Indiana State 10. Hoosiers rack up roughly 275 rushing yards, 250 passing yards, create 3 turnovers, and lock it down cleanly on special teams to head into conference play at 3–0.

📅: Join me tonight at 7:30 PM for a complete break down of Indiana State

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