IU Football-2018

[Assembly Hall]

Nice little piece on the IU admin's screw-up that affected one of their prized recruits last year........

https://www.thedailyhoosier.com/indiana-football-the-year-overdue-premier-of-bryant-fitzgerald-is-coming-soon/

[BillDoran]

Nice little piece on the IU admin's screw-up that affected one of their prized recruits last year........

https://www.thedailyhoosier.com/indiana-football-the-year-overdue-premier-of-bryant-fitzgerald-is-coming-soon/

The fact that Bryant Fitzgerald could not play football last year is abominable. There's plenty of blame to go around, but, holy cow, the NCAA's immediate denials were appallingly bad.

Just one more piece of evidence as to why the NCAA needs to be blown up.

[Assembly Hall]

The fact that Bryant Fitzgerald could not play football last year is abominable. There's plenty of blame to go around, but, holy cow, the NCAA's immediate denials were appallingly bad.

Just one more piece of evidence as to why the NCAA needs to be blown up.

Well what is done is done. Looking forward to seeing him on the field this year.

Looking at the schedule I would guess right around that 6-6 mark. But I am keeping my fingers crossed for 8-4.

[Hoosier Red]

Well what is done is done. Looking forward to seeing him on the field this year.

Looking at the schedule I would guess right around that 6-6 mark. But I am keeping my fingers crossed for 8-4.

My concern with this year's bunch is that the starting QB's will continue to underwhelm with no one guy proving to be head and shoulders above the other two.

[Sea Ray]

My concern with this year's bunch is that the starting QB's will continue to underwhelm with no one guy proving to be head and shoulders above the other two.

Hmmm, sounds like what's going on in Knoxville...

[Assembly Hall]

My concern with this year's bunch is that the starting QB's will continue to underwhelm with no one guy proving to be head and shoulders above the other two.

http://www.idsnews.com/article/2018/08/spiufbqbbattle081418

[Playadlc]

http://www.idsnews.com/article/2018/08/spiufbqbbattle081418

Good read. I think Dawkins wins the job because he’s more explosive running the ball.

[Assembly Hall]

Good read. I think Dawkins wins the job because he’s more explosive running the ball.

https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/columnists/gregg-doyel/2018/08/20/iu-football-brandon-dawkins-peyton-ramsey-michael-penix-iu-qb-decision-shed-light-tom-allen/1040536002/

[Hoosier Red]

Apparently Ramsey's won the job. Quite honestly, he's the one I'm least excited in seeing win it, but hopefully he surpasses my expectations.

[Assembly Hall]

Apparently Ramsey's won the job. Quite honestly, he's the one I'm least excited in seeing win it, but hopefully he surpasses my expectations.

Yeah, I am disappointed myself.

[Assembly Hall]

And what would IU football be with out a suspension? Morgan Ellison has been suspended indefinitely. One starter down....who is next?

[Revering4Blue]

And what would IU football be with out a suspension? Morgan Ellison has been suspended indefinitely. One starter down....who is next?

Looks like Ellison has been Wally Pipped. Then again, assuming Ellison returns from his suspension, the Hoosiers will have an embarrassment of riches at the RB position.

[Assembly Hall]

Looks like Ellison has been Wally Pipped. Then again, assuming Ellison returns from his suspension, the Hoosiers will have an embarrassment of riches at the RB position.

I am really starting to get excited about this squad.

[Hoosier Red]

Looks like Ellison has been Wally Pipped. Then again, assuming Ellison returns from his suspension, the Hoosiers will have an embarrassment of riches at the RB position.

I'm doing my best not to get too attached to any of the guys, but Penix, Scott, and Taylor sure have looked impressive.
One thing I've noticed over the last 5-10 years is that the talent level at IU has upgraded primarily at the bottom of the roster. I heard Buck Suhr say prior to the first game of the season, there's no one on the travel roster that doesn't at least look like a Big Ten football player.
However, outside of Tevin Coleman and Jordan Howard(the latter of whom fell into the Hoosiers laps), there haven't been any players that really scream future NFL playmaker. One reason they've been able to whether the graduations/NFL promotions of the WR so well is that they have a lot of guys who are fringy NFL talent WR.

On one hand, this is good. It sets a floor above where previous IU teams would fall. I don't think any team in Tom Allen's tenure will fail to win a Big Ten game for instance, or go 2-10.
However, the next step is finding (and developing) those next level talents that can elevate the team from the muddled middle to the tier of pretty good/occasionally great B1G teams.

[Griffey012]

I'm doing my best not to get too attached to any of the guys, but Penix, Scott, and Taylor sure have looked impressive.
One thing I've noticed over the last 5-10 years is that the talent level at IU has upgraded primarily at the bottom of the roster. I heard Buck Suhr say prior to the first game of the season, there's no one on the travel roster that doesn't at least look like a Big Ten football player.
However, outside of Tevin Coleman and Jordan Howard(the latter of whom fell into the Hoosiers laps), there haven't been any players that really scream future NFL playmaker. One reason they've been able to whether the graduations/NFL promotions of the WR so well is that they have a lot of guys who are fringy NFL talent WR.

On one hand, this is good. It sets a floor above where previous IU teams would fall. I don't think any team in Tom Allen's tenure will fail to win a Big Ten game for instance, or go 2-10.
However, the next step is finding (and developing) those next level talents that can elevate the team from the muddled middle to the tier of pretty good/occasionally great B1G teams.

Pretty spot on assessment. Hopefully as a result of what you mentioned, the next time a dynamic guy like Tevin Coleman does come through, the surrounding cast will be good enough to turn the team into an upper tier big ten team.

Have you read/heard about the new trainers that were brought onto IU staff? They sound like they are working wonders with the athletes and could really be an advantage for the Hoosiers over some other squads of similar talent levels. Nice to see them on the front edge of player development, unlike another team that wears Red.

https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/college/indiana/2018/09/07/iu-football-state-art-strength-training-program-key-success-david-ballou-matt-rhea-img-academy/1195826002/

[Assembly Hall]

Well here you go fellas......

https://247sports.com/college/indiana/Article/Florida-CB-Tiawan-Mullen-commits-to-Indiana-121818073/

[Sea Ray]

Well here you go fellas......

https://247sports.com/college/indiana/Article/Florida-CB-Tiawan-Mullen-commits-to-Indiana-121818073/

5'10" 160 lbs? How's that going to work in the Big Ten? Hell, Billy Hamilton's bigger than that

[BillDoran]

5'10" 160 lbs? How's that going to work in the Big Ten? Hell, Billy Hamilton's bigger than that

A) I think it's wise to take these measurements with a grain or two of salt.
B) I would imagine an 18-year-old entering a serious weight-training program might be able add a few pounds.

[Assembly Hall]

5'10" 160 lbs? How's that going to work in the Big Ten? Hell, Billy Hamilton's bigger than that

What would the SEC do with him?

The athletic cornerback chose Indiana over offers from Nebraska, Pittsburgh, Michigan State, Rutgers, Kentucky, Louisville, Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Syracuse, TCU, Bowling Green, Central Florida, Florida Atlantic, Middle Tennessee State, Southern Miss, Temple and UAB.

[Sea Ray]

What would the SEC do with him?

The athletic cornerback chose Indiana over offers from Nebraska, Pittsburgh, Michigan State, Rutgers, Kentucky, Louisville, Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Syracuse, TCU, Bowling Green, Central Florida, Florida Atlantic, Middle Tennessee State, Southern Miss, Temple and UAB.

I don't know a lot about him. My guess is that he'd be a nickel corner and a special teams guy

[Assembly Hall]

I don't know a lot about him. My guess is that he'd be a nickel corner and a special teams guy

Well his older brother is a CB for Clemson. And I think I also read that Lamar Jackson is a cousin. Appears to come from a good gene pool.

[Sea Ray]

Well his older brother is a CB for Clemson. And I think I also read that Lamar Jackson is a cousin. Appears to come from a good gene pool.

His older brother is 6'2" 190 lbs. He was the #2 CB in the country coming out of high school.

[Assembly Hall]

His older brother is 6'2" 190 lbs. He was the #2 CB in the country coming out of high school.

Yeah, I know?

[Hoosier Red]

Pretty spot on assessment. Hopefully as a result of what you mentioned, the next time a dynamic guy like Tevin Coleman does come through, the surrounding cast will be good enough to turn the team into an upper tier big ten team.

Have you read/heard about the new trainers that were brought onto IU staff? They sound like they are working wonders with the athletes and could really be an advantage for the Hoosiers over some other squads of similar talent levels. Nice to see them on the front edge of player development, unlike another team that wears Red.

https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/college/indiana/2018/09/07/iu-football-state-art-strength-training-program-key-success-david-ballou-matt-rhea-img-academy/1195826002/

Yeah I've seen that. I don't see myself as cynical, but 20+ years of weekends spent with IU and the Bengals will do that to a man. And 18 years prior watching UC and the Bengals, for those keeping score, I left being a UC fan almost the minute they became a watchable football program.

The "trainers are working wonders' ring a little bit like "the players coming into training camp in the best shape of his life" story to me.

That said, it is nice to see IUFB using any avenue out there to gain an upper leg on the competition. IU works at so many natural disadvantages compared to the rest of B1G East, it's nice if they can give themselves even the slightest edge, for however long it lasts.

[Assembly Hall]

Yeah I've seen that. I don't see myself as cynical, but 20+ years of weekends spent with IU and the Bengals will do that to a man. And 18 years prior watching UC and the Bengals, for those keeping score, I left being a UC fan almost the minute they became a watchable football program.

The "trainers are working wonders' ring a little bit like "the players coming into training camp in the best shape of his life" story to me.

That said, it is nice to see IUFB using any avenue out there to gain an upper leg on the competition. IU works at so many natural disadvantages compared to the rest of B1G East, it's nice if they can give themselves even the slightest edge, for however long it lasts.

Meh, IU has steadily through the years improved their facilities which includes training. They just need to turn the corner on the field...and being in the B1G East hampers that.

[Assembly Hall]

IU cruises........makes me wonder about how good ND is?

[Assembly Hall]

Nice piece on IU's freshman sensation..........

https://www.thedailyhoosier.com/stevie-scotts-improbable-one-year-run-to-the-top-of-the-ncaa-rushing-charts/

[Revering4Blue]

Especially happy for J-Shun Harris after all he’s been through. A valuable weapon, for sure.

[Assembly Hall]

Especially happy for J-Shun Harris after all he’s been through. A valuable weapon, for sure.

Speaking of Harris and Scott.......

https://iuhoosiers.com/news/2018/9/17/football-harris-scott-pick-up-b1g-honors.aspx

[Assembly Hall]

https://www.thedailyhoosier.com/what-the-national-statistics-say-about-indiana-football-through-three-weeks/

[Hoosier Red]

Some interesting numbers for sure. I think a lot of people will be overreacting their narratives in either direction based on what IU does Saturday.

[Assembly Hall]

Some interesting numbers for sure. I think a lot of people will be overreacting their narratives in either direction based on what IU does Saturday.

I don't know about their narratives. But this is the biggest game IU football has had in quite sometime.....maybe since 1987? Very few stick out in my mind that is how bad the Hoosiers have been. I ain't asking for much, just be respectable. But it could be worse......I could be a Purdue fan!!!!! LOL

[Assembly Hall]

https://www.thedailyhoosier.com/indiana-loses-first-game-of-the-season-what-we-learned/

[Sea Ray]

https://www.thedailyhoosier.com/indiana-loses-first-game-of-the-season-what-we-learned/

I did not see the game. Do you agree with this from the Indy Star?


...the Hoosiers were also clearly the second-best team on the field in nearly every measurable way.

https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/college/indiana/2018/09/22/why-iu-football-lost-michigan-state-35-21-peyton-ramsey-stevie-scott-whop-philyor/1384683002/

[Assembly Hall]

I did not see the game. Do you agree with this from the Indy Star?



https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/college/indiana/2018/09/22/why-iu-football-lost-michigan-state-35-21-peyton-ramsey-stevie-scott-whop-philyor/1384683002/

I wouldn't say I completely agree with it. But I can't argue with any of it either. I was frustrated myself. The game could have been won.

[Assembly Hall]

Well we didn't beat the Bucks yesterday.......here is our consolation prize

https://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-state-football-recruiting/2018/10/97415/four-star-running-back-sampson-james-reportedly-decommits-from-ohio-state

[Playadlc]

Huge get.

[Hoosier Red]

An incredibly huge get. My question is where's everyone going to play. If there's one thing IU's done well the last two classes, it's been recruiting running backs.

Ronnie Walker was the highest ranked 2018 recruit, he's played some but not a ton.
Stevie Scott has obviously dazzled in spurts in his chances.

Obviously, the most important aspect here is collecting talent. But I'm wondering if they're going to have trouble getting everyone touches that deserve them.

[Assembly Hall]

An incredibly huge get. My question is where's everyone going to play. If there's one thing IU's done well the last two classes, it's been recruiting running backs.

Ronnie Walker was the highest ranked 2018 recruit, he's played some but not a ton.
Stevie Scott has obviously dazzled in spurts in his chances.

Obviously, the most important aspect here is collecting talent. But I'm wondering if they're going to have trouble getting everyone touches that deserve them.

They definitely are not RB poor. And I have no idea what they are going to do. As an IU fan, I am not used to this.

[Revering4Blue]

An incredibly huge get. My question is where's everyone going to play. If there's one thing IU's done well the last two classes, it's been recruiting running backs.

Ronnie Walker was the highest ranked 2018 recruit, he's played some but not a ton.
Stevie Scott has obviously dazzled in spurts in his chances.

Obviously, the most important aspect here is collecting talent. But I'm wondering if they're going to have trouble getting everyone touches that deserve them.

Considering all IU QBs are athletic as opposed to previous seasons, I wouldn't be surprised to see more multi-back formations in the future (The Pistol-Diamond formation that Virginia employed with Perkins, for example). This would be a nice option (no pun intended) and wrinkle to an offensive scheme that hasn't scratched the surface in regards to potential - and I'm speaking from a foundational standpoint as opposed to just this season.

OC Mike DeBord has to be licking his chops.

[Assembly Hall]

Considering all IU QBs are athletic as opposed to previous seasons, I wouldn't be surprised to see more multi-back formations in the future (The Pistol-Diamond formation that Virginia employed with Perkins, for example). This would be a nice option (no pun intended) and wrinkle to an offensive scheme that hasn't scratched the surface in regards to potential - and I'm speaking from a foundational standpoint as opposed to just this season.

OC Mike DeBord has to be licking his chops.

Like the thinking......I already brought it up on the IU board after the Ohio St. game and before the commitment. Stack that backfield. Show them something they haven't seen. T-formation, Wishbone, Power I-right, Power I-left. I say they get that stuff implemented right now TBH.

[Assembly Hall]

I love this guys articles......

https://www.thedailyhoosier.com/indiana-football-nick-westbrook-rounding-back-into-all-big-ten-form/

[Assembly Hall]

https://www.indystar.com/story/news/investigations/2018/10/10/indiana-university-football-running-back-morgan-ellison-suspension-sexual-assault/1513037002/

[Griffey012]

I didn't get a chance to watch the game on Saturday but was pretty shocked to see the final score. I was expecting a well fought game...what happened?

[Assembly Hall]

I didn't get a chance to watch the game on Saturday but was pretty shocked to see the final score. I was expecting a well fought game...what happened?

Basically IU sucked at every facet of the game. No offense, no defense, turnovers, penalties, special teams........

[Griffey012]

Basically IU sucked at every facet of the game. No offense, no defense, turnovers, penalties, special teams........

Well, lucky for me I was enjoying Keeneland instead of watching that game.

[Assembly Hall]

Another valiant effort by the Hoosiers. Special teams sucked, too many penalties, and some big time coaching mistakes. 2 wins away from a bowl game and I don't see them getting them.

[Hoosier Red]

Another valiant effort by the Hoosiers. Special teams sucked, too many penalties, and some big time coaching mistakes. 2 wins away from a bowl game and I don't see them getting them.

There's definitely games they "could" win. I think the effort they put forward on Saturday probably beats Maryland and maybe beats Minnesota most games. But yeah the margin for error is essentially zero.

[Assembly Hall]

There's definitely games they "could" win. I think the effort they put forward on Saturday probably beats Maryland and maybe beats Minnesota most games. But yeah the margin for error is essentially zero.

Yep, they have no margin of error. But I look at their losses, aside from thinking what if, and they have been beaten by some fine football teams. tOSU, MSU, and PSU, the Hoosiers were in those games. Iowa just crushed them.

[Assembly Hall]

More bad news out of Bloomington........

https://www.thedailyhoosier.com/indiana-freshman-quarterback-michael-penix-tears-acl-reese-taylor-now-backup/

[Hoosier Red]

More bad news out of Bloomington........

https://www.thedailyhoosier.com/indiana-freshman-quarterback-michael-penix-tears-acl-reese-taylor-now-backup/

Yep, and this hurts IU two ways since I'm sure they won't let Taylor play any WR or RB snaps.

[Assembly Hall]

Yep, and this hurts IU two ways since I'm sure they won't let Taylor play any WR or RB snaps.

Well I hope they continue to use Reese in that capacity.......but Lord knows what DeBord has up his sleeve.

[Assembly Hall]

Wow, they actually won? Amazing.

[dubc47834]

Wow, they actually won? Amazing.

Basketball started, they still play football???

[Assembly Hall]

Basketball started, they still play football???

Unfortunately........yes.

[Revering4Blue]

Preface: This is NOT an indictment of Coach Tom Allen, as I believe that he'll eventually sap whatever potential this program possesses.

That said, yesterday was frustrating considering that the game was there for the taking. A moral victory, I suppose...but those are, IMO, getting very old. I realize that the divisions are ridiculously unbalanced, and the IU job (like it or not) is one of the toughest jobs in the conference. But, if we're speaking of general program expectations, IMHO, there is no reason that this program shouldn't be on par with, say, Northwestern. Is that unreasonable?

Nevertheless, it all come down to Saturday's “bucket and a bowl” game against Purdue. Thank goodness for home field adventage.

[Assembly Hall]

Preface: This is NOT an indictment of Coach Tom Allen, as I believe that he'll eventually sap whatever potential this program possesses.

That said, yesterday was frustrating considering that the game was there for the taking. A moral victory, I suppose...but those are, IMO, getting very old. I realize that the divisions are ridiculously unbalanced, and the IU job (like it or not) is one of the toughest jobs in the conference. But, if we're speaking of general program expectations, IMHO, there is no reason that this program shouldn't be on par with, say, Northwestern. Is that unreasonable?

Nevertheless, it all come down to Saturday's “bucket and a bowl” game against Purdue. Thank goodness for home field adventage.

TBH, I want Allen removed, it ain't like he took over a dumpster fire.

Yesterday's game was very disappointing. Same ole same ole. As a life long IU fan I really don't ask for much as far as football. I would be fine being on par with Northwestern or say Iowa.

This bucket game will be quite interesting.

[Sea Ray]

TBH, I want Allen removed, it ain't like he took over a dumpster fire.

Yesterday's game was very disappointing. Same ole same ole. As a life long IU fan I really don't ask for much as far as football. I would be fine being on par with Northwestern or say Iowa.

This bucket game will be quite interesting.

I don't see why IU can't be Mich ST. The Spartans are another basketball first school with recruiting challenges and play in the rugged Big Ten East

[Assembly Hall]

I don't see why IU can't be Mich ST. The Spartans are another basketball first school with recruiting challenges and play in the rugged Big Ten East

I wouldn't say MSU is a basketball first school.....but I would love to achieve what they are doing as well on the gridiron.

[Revering4Blue]

TBH, I want Allen removed, it ain't like he took over a dumpster fire.

Yesterday's game was very disappointing. Same ole same ole. As a life long IU fan I really don't ask for much as far as football. I would be fine being on par with Northwestern or say Iowa.

This bucket game will be quite interesting.

Along with the late Terry Hoeppner - who, IMHO, would still be coaching the Hoosiers today were it not for his untimely death - Allen is the only defensive-oriented head coach since Mallory, which has no doubt played a factor in the program's stagnation. For that reason alone, I feel as though the program's ceiling under is Allen- and I'm not suggesting positively that said ceiling will be achieved - is higher than any previous post-Mallory IU FB head coach not named Hoeppner.

IMHO, if Allen isn't given at least as much time as Kevin Wilson (pre-Wilson's bowl appearance), it may be tough to attract a quality candidate.

[Revering4Blue]

I don't see why IU can't be Mich ST. The Spartans are another basketball first school with recruiting challenges and play in the rugged Big Ten East

I hadn't thought about that, but I suppose that it is possible given that the state of Indiana now sports (at least arguably) as much prep football talent as the state of Michigan. But it is going to require a level of administrative commitment that, quite frankly, has been absent. I have to give credit where credit credit is due to AD Fred Glass, who has demonstrated a level of commitment to the football program unseen since the Mallory era.

The problem as I see it: Given the current status of the three bluebloods - and more importantly, elite programs - Ohio State, Michigan and Penn State, I'm unsure of Michigan State's ceiling anymore, and view any near future appearance in the B1G Championship / divisional crown by anyone other than the big three as highly unlikely, provided all of the current big three HCs are in place or subsequent HCing hires are not bungled. And that's not factoring in Maryland (high resources, proximity to talent) making a solid hire and Rutgers (highly populated, talent-laden area boosted by B1G Network $$$, exposure) getting it together, new coach or not.

[Revering4Blue]

I wouldn't say MSU is a basketball first school.....but I would love to achieve what they are doing as well on the gridiron.

It may be hard to believe, but even when factoring their enormous hoops success of the past twenty years or so under Izzo (which encompasses about 85 per cent of their success in that area), their majority of overall success the past 40 years has occurred on the football field. George Perles, in particular, had the football program humming for several seasons.

[Assembly Hall]

Along with the late Terry Hoeppner - who, IMHO, would still be coaching the Hoosiers today were it not for his untimely death - Allen is the only defensive-oriented head coach since Mallory, which has no doubt played a factor in the program's stagnation. For that reason alone, I feel as though the program's ceiling under is Allen- and I'm not suggesting positively that said ceiling will be achieved - is higher than any previous post-Mallory IU FB head coach not named Hoeppner.

IMHO, if Allen isn't given at least as much time as Kevin Wilson (pre-Wilson's bowl appearance), it may be tough to attract a quality candidate.

Matt Canada?

[Revering4Blue]

Matt Canada?

Given the turmoil, he's done a decent job at Maryland. But were I the Maryland brass - even if the Terps buck the odds and qualify for a bowl - I'd still conduct a National HC search. The Lynch tenure at IU is proof enough positive in my eyes that emotional hires are bad ideas. Besides, Canada is another offensive-minded coach (OC) and, as previously mentioned, those haven't exactly worked out well at IU.

[Assembly Hall]

Given the turmoil, he's done a decent job at Maryland. But were I the Maryland brass - even if the Terps buck the odds and qualify for a bowl - I'd still conduct a National HC search. The Lynch tenure at IU is proof enough positive in my eyes that emotional hires are bad ideas. Besides, Canada is another offensive-minded coach (OC) and, as previously mentioned, those haven't exactly worked out well at IU.

National HC search? Novel idea. The Hoosiers should have done that!!!!!

[Sea Ray]

My how things change in two months


I am really starting to get excited about this squad.

In another thread it was argued that IU was one of the most impressive teams in the Big Ten. I challenged that and was "poo hooed".

[Assembly Hall]

My how things change in two months



In another thread it was argued that IU was one of the most impressive teams in the Big Ten. I challenged that and was "poo hooed".

Season ain't over yet my friend. Still may go to a bowl. The future is bright.

[Sea Ray]

Season ain't over yet my friend. Still may go to a bowl. The future is bright.

Is going to a Bowl a big deal? If it is then why is there so much discussion of firing coaches?

[Assembly Hall]

Is going to a Bowl a big deal? If it is then why is there so much discussion of firing coaches?

IU doesn't go to many of them...for us it is a big deal.

[Sea Ray]

IU doesn't go to many of them...for us it is a big deal.

Great. Then why all the talk of firing coaches?

[Assembly Hall]

Great. Then why all the talk of firing coaches?

IU's OC is DeBord(remember him?) and he is horrible. Allen was handed the HC position after firing Wilson. He took over a team that by IU standards was good. All IU fans want is to go 7-5, 8-4 get a decent bowl game.

[Sea Ray]

IU's OC is DeBord(remember him?) and he is horrible. Allen was handed the HC position after firing Wilson. He took over a team that by IU standards was good. All IU fans want is to go 7-5, 8-4 get a decent bowl game.

OK, now it sounds like IU fans want more than a Bowl game. They want 7 or 8 wins and a "decent" Bowl game. But the excitement is sure gone.

[Assembly Hall]

OK, now it sounds like IU fans want more than a Bowl game. They want 7 or 8 wins and a "decent" Bowl game. But the excitement is sure gone.

Well, I can only speak for myself. But Wilson had the program heading in the right direction. Allen took over and I am disappointed so far. But that's just me.

[Griffey012]

Well, I can only speak for myself. But Wilson had the program heading in the right direction. Allen took over and I am disappointed so far. But that's just me.

So far, I think Allen has mostly been on the same course. In Wilson's last season (2016), IU was 6-7 with wins over FIU, Ball State, MSU, Maryland, Rutgers, and Purdue. MSU was the only team that wasn't terrible they beat. Wilson was canned, IU was left with an inconsistent QB situation. They turned in a 5-7 season and are now headed toward another 5-7 season if they lose to Purdue. With a win against Purdue we are looking at 6-7 or 7-6 pending bowl game outcome. I think Allen deserves another full season before the heat should start to turn up.

[Assembly Hall]

So far, I think Allen has mostly been on the same course. In Wilson's last season (2016), IU was 6-7 with wins over FIU, Ball State, MSU, Maryland, Rutgers, and Purdue. MSU was the only team that wasn't terrible they beat. Wilson was canned, IU was left with an inconsistent QB situation. They turned in a 5-7 season and are now headed toward another 5-7 season if they lose to Purdue. With a win against Purdue we are looking at 6-7 or 7-6 pending bowl game outcome. I think Allen deserves another full season before the heat should start to turn up.

That is all fine. I will give another year, but let's see how this season turns out first.

[Revering4Blue]

A fair and honest take: This offseason, IU football needs to grow up

https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/college/indiana/2018/11/24/mistake-prone-iu-football-needs-grow-up-if-its-going-turnaround-tom-allen-old-oaken-bucket/2100951002/

And another similar take: Tom Allen and Mike DeBord failed IU football this season

https://www.idsnews.com/article/2018/11/column-tom-allen-and-mike-debord-failed-iu-football-this-season

My feeling on the offense...and I'm fully prepared to be hammered for submitting it.....this offense's ceiling is MUCH higher with Penix at QB, assuming he fully recovers and is just as mobile as before.

What say you?

[BillDoran]

As someone who spent years in Bloomington, Tom Allen's brand of IU football seems to be on par with the past two decades IU football. They're not doormat-level bad - and they've consistently put up a good fight against OSU - but they're no threat to win their division. With PSU, Michigan and Ohio State, that's a really high bar, but this feels like a dip from the Wilson era. I would think annual bowl trips are well within the program's capacity.

I didn't see enough Penix this year to give an opinion on whether he's the future at QB or not. I thought the biggest disappointment on the season was the defense though. Given Allen's experience as a defensive coordinator, I expected a lot more out of the unit. Eighty-ninth in yards per game and 83rd in points per game ain't going to cut it. The offense was poor as well - 83rd in points per game 57th in yards per game. Add it all up, and this isn't a very good football program.

I know they stole an OSU recruit, and Scott looks like the real deal as a freshman. Hope they can recruit a higher caliber of player and eventually tune things up a bit. I don't like the vibe I get from Allen though. I expect him to be out of a job in a couple more seasons.

[Assembly Hall]

At the end of the day I am gonna call it like I see it. IU put up valiant efforts against the "Big Four" in the East. But, they failed against the West...0-3. All I got. Gonna return to watching my movie......."Misery".

[Sea Ray]

At the end of the day I am gonna call it like I see it. IU put up valiant efforts against the "Big Four" in the East. But, they failed against the West...0-3. All I got. Gonna return to watching my movie......."Misery".

There's no Big 4 in the Big Ten. There's only the Big 1. It's Ohio State and everyone else. The whole conference looks terrible. Ohio State will face a team in the championship game that was winless out of conference. We saw how outclassed Mich was in Columbus and they are the second best team in the league. What does that say for MSU, Indiana and others?

Winless vs the West? See Northwestern above

[Assembly Hall]

There's no Big 4 in the Big Ten. There's only the Big 1. It's Ohio State and everyone else. The whole conference looks terrible. Ohio State will face a team in the championship game that was winless out of conference. We saw how outclassed Mich was in Columbus and they are the second best team in the league. What does that say for MSU, Indiana and others?

Winless vs the West? See Northwestern above

I don't know what exactly you are trying to say here. Every year IU has to play OSU, MSU, UM, and PSU. That is the Big 4. And yes IU went winless against those 4. But thier doom was losing to Iowa and Purdue at home and Minny on the road. Hence they were winless vs. the west.

[Sea Ray]

I don't know what exactly you are trying to say here. Every year IU has to play OSU, MSU, UM, and PSU. That is the Big 4. And yes IU went winless against those 4. But their doom was losing to Iowa and Purdue at home and Minny on the road. Hence they were winless vs. the west.

I'm saying that there's no lumping those 4 together. OSU should not be considered part of that group. They're in a separate category. OSU is "big". There's nothing big about the other 3. Did you watch any of that MSU/Rutgers game?

[puca]

I'm saying that there's no lumping those 4 together. OSU should not be considered part of that group. They're in a separate category. OSU is "big". There's nothing big about the other 3. Did you watch any of that MSU/Rutgers game?

They're 'big' because the are traditionally top football schools and they tend to pull in top recruits. No question that lately Ohio State has been a notch above the other three, but year-in, year-out all four have more talent to work with than Indiana. Rarely do those teams suffer truly 'down' years. It is a tough group for Indiana to be lumped with, especially considering that "The Big House", "Happy Valley" and "The Shoe" are all really tough places to play road games. In most years Indiana is going to have to fare well against the West and in non-conference to be bowl eligible. I think that is all Assembly Hall is saying.

[Assembly Hall]

They're 'big' because the are traditionally top football schools and they tend to pull in top recruits. No question that lately Ohio State has been a notch above the other three, but year-in, year-out all four have more talent to work with than Indiana. Rarely do those teams suffer truly 'down' years. It is a tough group for Indiana to be lumped with, especially considering that "The Big House", "Happy Valley" and "The Shoe" are all really tough places to play road games. In most years Indiana is going to have to fare well against the West and in non-conference to be bowl eligible. I think that is all Assembly Hall is saying.

Thank you. Yep, that is what I am saying.

[Hoosier Red]

They're 'big' because the are traditionally top football schools and they tend to pull in top recruits. No question that lately Ohio State has been a notch above the other three, but year-in, year-out all four have more talent to work with than Indiana. Rarely do those teams suffer truly 'down' years. It is a tough group for Indiana to be lumped with, especially considering that "The Big House", "Happy Valley" and "The Shoe" are all really tough places to play road games. In most years Indiana is going to have to fare well against the West and in non-conference to be bowl eligible. I think that is all Assembly Hall is saying.

To an ant, even a little kid looks like a giant.
I'll grant that there's really a big 3,as Michigan State has been more hit and miss with higher highs but lower lows for the most part than Penn State, at least since James Franklin showed up in Happy Valley.
Maybe I'm wrong, but the general point is that whether Michigan State is "B1G champion good", or just regular "not quite top tier B1G team" good doesn't really matter to IU.
They've struck me as a team more prone to falling out of that tier and into the muddled middle of B1G than the others.

Of course if IU takes Michigan State out, they replace them with Wisconsin who seemingly beats IU 60-7 even in down years.

The point (if there is one) is that there's roughly 3-4 games every year that we pretty much know going into the season IU will lose.

[Assembly Hall]

No bowl, but.......

http://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/25559464/qb-jack-tuttle-transfers-utah-utes-indiana-hoosiers

[Sea Ray]

No bowl, but.......

http://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/25559464/qb-jack-tuttle-transfers-utah-utes-indiana-hoosiers

Wow. Nice get! He'll have all 4 yrs eligibility too. I wonder what went wrong at Utah? Whatever. Good luck in Bloomington

[Assembly Hall]

Wow. Nice get! He'll have all 4 yrs eligibility too. I wonder what went wrong at Utah? Whatever. Good luck in Bloomington

My understanding is that he was upset about being named 3rd string QB. Damn, the kid had an offer from Bama coming out of HS. Now if we can just get rid of DeBord.....and I will have a Merry Christmas.

[Sea Ray]

My understanding is that he was upset about being named 3rd string QB. Damn, the kid had an offer from Bama coming out of HS. Now if we can just get rid of DeBord.....and I will have a Merry Christmas.

I know DeBord well from his time at Tennessee. The foot speed of QB Josh Dobbs covered up a lot of scars. Notice what he did with Alvin Kamara? Yeah, I didn't either...

[Assembly Hall]

I know DeBord well from his time at Tennessee. The foot speed of QB Josh Dobbs covered up a lot of scars. Notice what he did with Alvin Kamara? Yeah, I didn't either...

Most IU fans want him gone.

[Assembly Hall]

News coming out of Bloomington is that DeBord has retired.

[Revering4Blue]

News coming out of Bloomington is that DeBord has retired.

Matt Canada, come on down!

Hopefully, anyway.

[Assembly Hall]

It will be interesting to see which way the Hoosiers go, rumors are that Allen wants a fresh face with D-1 experience. What does that mean? I have no idea.

[Assembly Hall]

Matt Canada, come on down!

Hopefully, anyway.

"No Canada"

https://www.crimsonquarry.com/2019/1/10/18177217/matt-canada-will-not-be-indianas-next-offensive-coordinator-mike-debord-tom-allen-pat-narduzzi

[Revering4Blue]

Fresno State OC Kalen DeBoer hired as IU's OC.

I'm quite happy with this hire, as it's, frankly, a better hire than I expected.

[Assembly Hall]

Fresno State OC Kalen DeBoer hired as IU's OC.

I'm quite happy with this hire, as it's, frankly, a better hire than I expected.

Yeah, I was looking at his numbers...quite impressive.