š Inside the Matchup: Indiana Prepares for #3 Oregon ā Can the Hoosiers Shock the Ducks?
By Shannon Griffith Lead Football Analyst TheHoosier.com
The undefeated #7 Indiana Hoosiers (5-0) are heading west for their biggest challenge of the season ā a date with the #3 Oregon Ducks (5-0) inside a roaring Autzen Stadium in Eugene. The game kicks off Saturday at 3:30 PM ET / 12:30 PM PT on CBS, and the national spotlight will be shining bright on this Top 10 matchup.
This game will be defined by discipline, ball security, and execution ā all trademarks of Indianaās rise in 2025.
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If Indiana plays clean football, wins first down, and controls the clock with its ground game, they can absolutely be in this game. The key is avoiding the early storm and matching Oregonās energy from the start.
š What the Hoosiers Must Do to Win
- Control the Tempo: Keep Oregonās offense on the sideline with long, methodical drives led by RBs Roman Hemby and Kaelon Black
- Protect Fernando Mendoza: The redshirt sophomore QB has been efficient through five games, but Oregonās front will test Indianaās offensive line protection.
- Force Turnovers: IUās defense has thrived on timely takeaways; theyāll need at least two to flip momentum in a hostile environment.
- Win Special Teams: Hidden yards and field position will matter on a slick turf field under Pacific Northwest skies.
š Statistical Snapshot
| Category | Indiana | Oregon |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 5ā0 | 5ā0 |
| Points Per Game | 47.8 | 46.6 |
| Points Allowed | 9.6 | 12.2 |
| Total Offense | 538.2 yds | 503.8 yds |
| Total Defense | 221.4 | 238.2 |
| 3rd Down % | 58.33 | 51 |
| Red Zone Touchdowns % | 79% (23-29) | 83% (19-23) |
Both teams bring balance and explosive play potential, but Indianaās defense might be the most underrated unit in the Big Ten.
š„ Join Us LIVE Tonight!
Join Coach Shannon Griffith for a LIVE episode of The Hoosier Tailgate as we break down the matchup, go inside Coach Griffās Video Room, and take your comments and questions live.
š¢ Live Stream Starts: Tonight at 7:30 PM ET
šŗ Watch Live On: https://www.youtube.com/live/86NnumT2OTE?si=gLmWIWkXQ-LPR-bu
š¬ Interact: Drop your score predictions and questions during the live chat!
Weāll break down Fernando Mendozaās development, Oregonās key playmakers, and what Indiana must do to stay unbeaten heading into Week 7. This one has that big-game feel ā and weāll be live to cover every angle.
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