Iowa Preview

“In this league it's week in and week out, it's good D-linemen, good defenses, so every week is a challenge,” offensive line coach Greg Frey said. “You can’t rest on your laurels so it is a question of getting that consistency.”

Indiana has certainly found consistency this year, but not necessarily the type fans are looking for. When the season started, the Hoosiers were consistent in winning close games and going 4-0. Two more wins looked like an absolute certainty, but then IU reversed course and started being consistently bad like the teams of old. Sitting at .500 after a four game losing streak, the Hoosiers are at a crossroads in their season. Facing the 10th best team in the country means Indiana has an uphill battle to recovery.

The game pits a potent Indiana offensive attack against the staunch Iowa defense. The Hoosiers had their bye last week, giving them plenty of time to prepare for an Iowa team that boasts the ninth ranked adjusted for opponent defense according to the S&P+ rankings. They lead the conference in forced turnovers, allow a miniscule 85.8 yards per game, have only given up a stingy 4.36 yards per play. The numbers make it clear that IU has a clear challenge in front of them.

The Indiana running offense may be stifled but passing may not be any easier as the Hawkeyes rank fifth in the conference for pass defense efficiency and have Desmond King, who leads the country with seven interceptions.

“They’re a great team as a whole on offense and defense. That is why they’re ranked number ten,” cornerback Rashard Fant said. “They just play great team ball.”

Fant is one of the leaders on a defense that has struggled with the consistency coaches are seeking. While Iowa’s offense isn’t necessarily elite, they are more explosive than in years past as they have the eleventh most plays for 40 or more yards this season. To contain that type of production, Fant says Indiana players must rely on their competitive spirit.

“You have to compete, you’re getting the opportunity to compete with a great player across from you … you have to trust your technique, the defensive scheme, and trust the other ten guys on the field.”

The young Indiana defense has had some of the most painful growing pains in program history including giving up 22 points in the fourth quarter to Rutgers. That robbed the team of a fifth win, which may be all IU needs to go bowling if there are not enough 6-6 teams- a real possibility. While a fifth win and their APR score may be enough for the Hoosiers to go bowling, they want to earn a spot thanks to their play.

“All you can ask from your individuals is that they battle as hard as they can,” Frey said. “(Players competing) Is what I care about.”

Indiana has competed this season against the two undefeated teams they have already played. The team is aware of the physicality and effort they need to bring to play in games like these. They hung with Michigan State and they almost knocked off Ohio State. If they are able to finally put it together and find the consistency the coaching staff has preached, they have the ability to save this season.

Though fan base excitement may have shifted to the hardwood, there is plenty left to play for on the gridiron. Head coach Kevin Wilson’s contract situation is likely going to be evaluated in the offseason and a good showing down the stretch will probably earn him an extension. Indiana can finish the season strong and make good on all the potential fans saw earlier in the season or flounder and head into the offseason with a cloud of uncertainty over their head.