The Hoosiers offense looked in sync in the first quarter, but a defensive lapse has made sure Akron remains in the game.
IU rushed for 47 yards and passed for 67 in the first quarter, but the big play came on the opening kickoff, when Ray Fisher ran it back 91 yards for a touchdown.
I've been impressed with the IU running game so far. The line appears to be opening the holes and the backs are hitting them. The Hoosiers also were 4-5 on third down, which is encouraging.
Unfortunately, one defensive lapse gave the Zips an easy touchdown. A missed tackle allowed Akron wide receiver Deryn Bowser to score a 49-yard touchdown. He is the only Akron receiver with a catch so far.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Indiana v. Akron: Pregame thoughts
The Hoosiers will be the underdog on the road against Akron today. The early line gave the Hoosiers 4 1/2 points.
According to my friend LaMond Pope, who covers the Hoosiers for the Fort Wayne Journal Gazette, Akron has not allowed a a point in its last six quarters. Of course, four of those quarters came against Morgan State. The first two quarters came against Penn State, when the team was already down 31-0.
Statistically, Akron and Indiana are nearly identical so far this season. Akron has scored 24 points per game, Indiana 21. The Hoosiers allowed 16 points per game, Akron 15.5.
The Zips offense has been pretty balanced so far, with a few more passing yards per game. The team's defensive problem appears to be in the passing game. Akron has allowed 232.5 yards per game through the air. That's still better than IU, which has allowed 272 yards passing per game.
The IU defense will have to take advantage of a depleted Akron offense. Starting quarterback Chris Jacquemain will not play after being suspended indefinitely.
Game is on ESPNU or 100.1 FM radio in Fort Wayne.
According to my friend LaMond Pope, who covers the Hoosiers for the Fort Wayne Journal Gazette, Akron has not allowed a a point in its last six quarters. Of course, four of those quarters came against Morgan State. The first two quarters came against Penn State, when the team was already down 31-0.
Statistically, Akron and Indiana are nearly identical so far this season. Akron has scored 24 points per game, Indiana 21. The Hoosiers allowed 16 points per game, Akron 15.5.
The Zips offense has been pretty balanced so far, with a few more passing yards per game. The team's defensive problem appears to be in the passing game. Akron has allowed 232.5 yards per game through the air. That's still better than IU, which has allowed 272 yards passing per game.
The IU defense will have to take advantage of a depleted Akron offense. Starting quarterback Chris Jacquemain will not play after being suspended indefinitely.
Game is on ESPNU or 100.1 FM radio in Fort Wayne.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Hoosiers move to 2-0
Yes, that is not a typo. IU beat Western Michigan 23-19 in Bloomington to remain undefeated.
Western Michigan was about to take the lead late, however. The Hoosiers defense helped by committing three major penalties -- a late hite, pass interference and facemask -- that sustained the Broncos drive. But Greg Middleton forced and then recovered a fumble with Western Michigan about 10 yards away. IU could not run out the clock, thanks in part to a penalty, but took a safety and then held Western Michigan in the final seconds to secure the win.
I have to say I'm surprised at how the IU defense has stepped up late in the game two weeks in a row. It seems like they have to play better to compete on the Big Ten stage, but if they keep making big plays with the game on the line, they should be just fine.
The IU running game looked much better this week, accumulating 187 yards, including a 59 yard run for a touchdown by Demetrius McCray. Maybe more importantly, IU committed no turnovers.
Ben Chappell did not have his best game: 185 yards passing and no touchdowns, but he did enough to win. I'm still worried about the IU offense in the second half. It fell asleep again in the second half, scoring only 6 points.
The IU defense allowed only 22 yards rushing, which is impressive. The Hoosiers' defensive identity appears to be a bend-but-don't-break style. But the unit is able to get pressure on the quarterback and force turnovers.
Overall, a much better performance than last week.
Next up: At Akron, Sept. 19. The Hoosiers could head to Ann Arbor 3-0...
Western Michigan was about to take the lead late, however. The Hoosiers defense helped by committing three major penalties -- a late hite, pass interference and facemask -- that sustained the Broncos drive. But Greg Middleton forced and then recovered a fumble with Western Michigan about 10 yards away. IU could not run out the clock, thanks in part to a penalty, but took a safety and then held Western Michigan in the final seconds to secure the win.
I have to say I'm surprised at how the IU defense has stepped up late in the game two weeks in a row. It seems like they have to play better to compete on the Big Ten stage, but if they keep making big plays with the game on the line, they should be just fine.
The IU running game looked much better this week, accumulating 187 yards, including a 59 yard run for a touchdown by Demetrius McCray. Maybe more importantly, IU committed no turnovers.
Ben Chappell did not have his best game: 185 yards passing and no touchdowns, but he did enough to win. I'm still worried about the IU offense in the second half. It fell asleep again in the second half, scoring only 6 points.
The IU defense allowed only 22 yards rushing, which is impressive. The Hoosiers' defensive identity appears to be a bend-but-don't-break style. But the unit is able to get pressure on the quarterback and force turnovers.
Overall, a much better performance than last week.
Next up: At Akron, Sept. 19. The Hoosiers could head to Ann Arbor 3-0...
IU looks good on both sides of the ball
The Hoosiers lead Western Michigan 10-0 early in the second quarter.
I've been impressed with how the IU offense has started the game again. There appears to be some semblance of a running game as well, which is promising. The question remains whether the team will remain consistent in the second half. Last week Eastern Kentucky made an adjustment at halftime and held the Hoosiers scoreless the rest of the game.
The touchdown drive that finished early in the second was impressive, including Ben Chappell's two sneaks to get into the end zone.
While we already knew the IU offense was in gear, I'm more impressed with the IU defense so far. Western Michigan has 21 total yards through the first quarter. QB Tim Hiller, who was expected to have a big game, hasn't done much of anything.
The big key so far is the Broncos lack of running game. As I write this, a rush for 6 yards by WMU gets them near 0 net yards on the ground for the game. There are about 11 minutes left in the half.
The Broncos were moving the ball a little better after the IU touchdown. The IU defense now must make an adjustment.
I've been impressed with how the IU offense has started the game again. There appears to be some semblance of a running game as well, which is promising. The question remains whether the team will remain consistent in the second half. Last week Eastern Kentucky made an adjustment at halftime and held the Hoosiers scoreless the rest of the game.
The touchdown drive that finished early in the second was impressive, including Ben Chappell's two sneaks to get into the end zone.
While we already knew the IU offense was in gear, I'm more impressed with the IU defense so far. Western Michigan has 21 total yards through the first quarter. QB Tim Hiller, who was expected to have a big game, hasn't done much of anything.
The big key so far is the Broncos lack of running game. As I write this, a rush for 6 yards by WMU gets them near 0 net yards on the ground for the game. There are about 11 minutes left in the half.
The Broncos were moving the ball a little better after the IU touchdown. The IU defense now must make an adjustment.
IU-Western Michigan early thoughts
The big surprise heading into this game was that IU was the favorite. The Hoosiers were a 1-point favorite this morning.
Early in the first quarter, the IU offense seemed to be clicking, but stalled in the red zone. The running game was not able to get it done inside the 10 yard line and a fade in the corner of the end zone was not successful. IU still was able to salvage a field goal.
The defense held the supposedly potent Bronco offense in check on their first drive, thanks to a huge tackle for a loss. The Broncos have -9 yards rushing nearing the end of the quarter.
We'll see if that holds up...
Early in the first quarter, the IU offense seemed to be clicking, but stalled in the red zone. The running game was not able to get it done inside the 10 yard line and a fade in the corner of the end zone was not successful. IU still was able to salvage a field goal.
The defense held the supposedly potent Bronco offense in check on their first drive, thanks to a huge tackle for a loss. The Broncos have -9 yards rushing nearing the end of the quarter.
We'll see if that holds up...
Monday, September 7, 2009
Prediction adjustments following Week 1
After watching the Hoosiers get an unconvincing win in Week 1 and seeing some actual game action, I want to make some adjustments to the season prediction.
I was correct in saying the IU-Eastern Kentucky game would be close. Looking ahead to Week 2 against Western Michigan, after predicting a loss at first, I think now the Hoosiers could get a win. The Broncos were routed by Michigan on Saturday, 31-7. Western Michigan's offense never got started and scored its only points late in the fourth quarter. The Wolverines offense ran up nearly 300 yards total offense in the first half.
That is encouraging for the Hoosiers, who had trouble stopping the EKU pistol offense last week. If the defense can contain the Broncos and the offense can get going, WMU may fall to 0-2 on Saturday.
Unfortunately, after watching Michigan, I don't think the Hoosiers are going to break the losing streak in the Big House this year. Michigan looked and played like the West Virginia teams coach Rich Rodriguez built. The Michigan offense looks as if it would overwhelm the Hoosiers defense.
Penn State smoked Akron on Saturday as well, making me more confident the Hoosiers should be favored to win their game there. And surprisingly, Virginia lost to William and Mary 26-14, creating more confidence that expected loss could turn to a win.
I still can't say the Hoosiers' record will improve over the 4-8 record I predicted. A win at Virginia would push the record to 5-7, but Purdue looked sharp in its win over Toledo, 52-31, leading me to wonder whether that win will come to end the season.
Week 1 inspired some confidence in the Hoosiers prospects this season, but it also issued some more challenges. Ultimately, it should not change the outcome: 4-8 is still the expectation.
I was correct in saying the IU-Eastern Kentucky game would be close. Looking ahead to Week 2 against Western Michigan, after predicting a loss at first, I think now the Hoosiers could get a win. The Broncos were routed by Michigan on Saturday, 31-7. Western Michigan's offense never got started and scored its only points late in the fourth quarter. The Wolverines offense ran up nearly 300 yards total offense in the first half.
That is encouraging for the Hoosiers, who had trouble stopping the EKU pistol offense last week. If the defense can contain the Broncos and the offense can get going, WMU may fall to 0-2 on Saturday.
Unfortunately, after watching Michigan, I don't think the Hoosiers are going to break the losing streak in the Big House this year. Michigan looked and played like the West Virginia teams coach Rich Rodriguez built. The Michigan offense looks as if it would overwhelm the Hoosiers defense.
Penn State smoked Akron on Saturday as well, making me more confident the Hoosiers should be favored to win their game there. And surprisingly, Virginia lost to William and Mary 26-14, creating more confidence that expected loss could turn to a win.
I still can't say the Hoosiers' record will improve over the 4-8 record I predicted. A win at Virginia would push the record to 5-7, but Purdue looked sharp in its win over Toledo, 52-31, leading me to wonder whether that win will come to end the season.
Week 1 inspired some confidence in the Hoosiers prospects this season, but it also issued some more challenges. Ultimately, it should not change the outcome: 4-8 is still the expectation.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Hoosiers win, but it's not pretty
After scoring two touchdowns, a field goal and a safety in the first half, the Hoosiers are shut out in the second, yet still hold on to win by six, 19-13. The key play was a forced fumble on the goal line by the Hoosier defense that preserved the six-point lead.
But the Hoosier offense fell asleep in the second half, which will be a major problem this season if not fixed.
Ben Chappell had a decent day, throwing for 327 yards and a touchdown, but also had two interceptions. I was really impressed with the IU receivers, who surprised me with some of their catches and speed. Doss, Belcher and Turner appear able to run after the catch and aren't afraid to make a catch in front of a defensive back.
Something has to be done about the running game. The Hoosiers rushed for 73 yards, averaging 2.4 yards per carry. It caused real problems trying to run the clock out late in the game.
It was an ugly win, but as they say, it still counts. However, this performance will not beat any Big Ten team.
Next week: Western Michigan comes to Bloomington at noon Sept. 12.
But the Hoosier offense fell asleep in the second half, which will be a major problem this season if not fixed.
Ben Chappell had a decent day, throwing for 327 yards and a touchdown, but also had two interceptions. I was really impressed with the IU receivers, who surprised me with some of their catches and speed. Doss, Belcher and Turner appear able to run after the catch and aren't afraid to make a catch in front of a defensive back.
Something has to be done about the running game. The Hoosiers rushed for 73 yards, averaging 2.4 yards per carry. It caused real problems trying to run the clock out late in the game.
It was an ugly win, but as they say, it still counts. However, this performance will not beat any Big Ten team.
Next week: Western Michigan comes to Bloomington at noon Sept. 12.
Hoosiers still lead after third, 19-13
EKU crept closer in the third quarter and exposed some weaknesses in the Hoosiers defense.
The defense allowed a 36-yard run on 3rd and 11 that eventually led to a field goal. The only good news is instead of touchdowns, the Hoosiers are holding the Colonels to field goals.
And while the EKU offense is improving in the second half, the IU offense is sputtering. Chappell only threw for about 25 yards, including one interception. The Hoosiers now have three turnovers in the game.
I hope IU's defenders aren't tiring, because they need to step up in the final quarter.
The defense allowed a 36-yard run on 3rd and 11 that eventually led to a field goal. The only good news is instead of touchdowns, the Hoosiers are holding the Colonels to field goals.
And while the EKU offense is improving in the second half, the IU offense is sputtering. Chappell only threw for about 25 yards, including one interception. The Hoosiers now have three turnovers in the game.
I hope IU's defenders aren't tiring, because they need to step up in the final quarter.
IU up by 9 at halftime
Indiana leads Eastern Kentucky 19-10 at halftime. I'm starting to believe, just a little bit.
The IU offense is clicking. Maybe that's because EKU's defense is not a Big Ten calibre unit, but I'm starting to wonder if the Hoosiers could give a few more teams fits this season.
It's the speed on the outside that's impressive. Tandon Doss is the prime example. Doss has accounted for a huge chunk of the IU passing game with 7 catches and 117 yards receiving. Quarterback Ben Chappell has thrown for 214 yards.
The only bone I have to pick is it seems like IU is dominating this game on both sides of the ball, yet only leads by nine points. The Hoosiers gave EKU seven easy points on a blow coverage and then held them to a field goal after EKU returned a punt inside the 20 yard line.
The offense has to keep the foot on the pedal in the second half. Hopefully, the defense will tighten up as well.
The box score is available here.
The IU offense is clicking. Maybe that's because EKU's defense is not a Big Ten calibre unit, but I'm starting to wonder if the Hoosiers could give a few more teams fits this season.
It's the speed on the outside that's impressive. Tandon Doss is the prime example. Doss has accounted for a huge chunk of the IU passing game with 7 catches and 117 yards receiving. Quarterback Ben Chappell has thrown for 214 yards.
The only bone I have to pick is it seems like IU is dominating this game on both sides of the ball, yet only leads by nine points. The Hoosiers gave EKU seven easy points on a blow coverage and then held them to a field goal after EKU returned a punt inside the 20 yard line.
The offense has to keep the foot on the pedal in the second half. Hopefully, the defense will tighten up as well.
The box score is available here.
First Quarter: IU leads
The Hoosiers lead Eastern Kentucky 9-7 after the first quarter.
The defense forcing a safety was a welcome change from last season, especially after the offense turned the ball over on its first series. Other than the one big mistake, the defense played pretty well. They only gave up 67 yards of total offense, all of it coming on one pass completion.
Offensively, the wide receivers have been impressive. There is some speed there, among Terrance Turner and Tandon Doss, and Damarlo Belcher made a heck of a catch on 3rd and long to keep a drive going. The running game has been at least servicable, but it's clear the Hoosiers' strength is going to be in the passing game. Chappell threw for 112 yards in the quarter.
Hoosiers still driving in EKU territory to start the second quarter.
The defense forcing a safety was a welcome change from last season, especially after the offense turned the ball over on its first series. Other than the one big mistake, the defense played pretty well. They only gave up 67 yards of total offense, all of it coming on one pass completion.
Offensively, the wide receivers have been impressive. There is some speed there, among Terrance Turner and Tandon Doss, and Damarlo Belcher made a heck of a catch on 3rd and long to keep a drive going. The running game has been at least servicable, but it's clear the Hoosiers' strength is going to be in the passing game. Chappell threw for 112 yards in the quarter.
Hoosiers still driving in EKU territory to start the second quarter.
Pre-game meal
We are less than 45 minutes until kick-off of Indiana-Eastern Kentucky. Here is an interesting story to chew on while you wait for the game to start. Interesting trends for both teams are here.
I'll be providing commentary throughout the game here and on Twitter as the need warrants.
I'll be providing commentary throughout the game here and on Twitter as the need warrants.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
The 2009 season: The rule, not the exception
When I asked my Facebook friends their thoughts on the upcoming IU football season, I set the over-under for wins at four. Not surprisingly, everyone took the under.
After looking at the play in camp, predictions for the rest of the conference, as well as the schedule, I'm going to predict a push: the Hoosiers will go 4-8.
IU beats Eastern Kentucky, loses to Western Michigan, and beats Akron in close games to start the season 2-1. The team heads to Michigan, a team still rebuilding, learning a new offense and now reeling from internal problems outlined in the Detroit Free-Press, and upsets the Wolverines 24-23. Michigan's players and coaches expect to steamroll the Hoosiers, only to find a team looking to end its decades long losing streak at Michigan Stadium.
The Hoosiers move to 3-1, and the word bowl is thrown around. Then Ohio State comes to town favored by at least 21 points and reminds the Hoosiers where they stand in the Big Ten power structure. The Buckeyes more than cover the spread and IU is 3-2. The loss lingers in Charlottesville, Va., as the Hoosiers lose to Virginia by 10.
The Hoosiers find themselves at .500 at Homecoming, when Illinois is in Bloomington. The Illini offense is too strong and IU loses its third in a row.
The slide continues with a close loss at Northwestern, followed by a convincing loss at Iowa. Wisconsin then comes to Bloomington with the Hoosiers at 3-6 and mauls them behind their huge offensive line and power running game.
The game at Penn State is a mismatch and IU leaves with another loss. The Hoosiers enter the Bucket game at 3-8 and looking for a new coach. Athletic Director Fred Glass decides before the game that Coach Bill Lynch's contract will not be renewed, but lets him and his staff finish the season.
In a both a tribute to Lynch and payback for last year's embarrassing loss in West Lafayette, the Hoosiers squeak by Purdue to regain the Old Oaken Bucket and finish at 4-8.
It's another sub-par season for Indiana, but really that is the rule in the last 20 years, not an exception. Once again we hope for next year and eagerly await basketball season.
After looking at the play in camp, predictions for the rest of the conference, as well as the schedule, I'm going to predict a push: the Hoosiers will go 4-8.
IU beats Eastern Kentucky, loses to Western Michigan, and beats Akron in close games to start the season 2-1. The team heads to Michigan, a team still rebuilding, learning a new offense and now reeling from internal problems outlined in the Detroit Free-Press, and upsets the Wolverines 24-23. Michigan's players and coaches expect to steamroll the Hoosiers, only to find a team looking to end its decades long losing streak at Michigan Stadium.
The Hoosiers move to 3-1, and the word bowl is thrown around. Then Ohio State comes to town favored by at least 21 points and reminds the Hoosiers where they stand in the Big Ten power structure. The Buckeyes more than cover the spread and IU is 3-2. The loss lingers in Charlottesville, Va., as the Hoosiers lose to Virginia by 10.
The Hoosiers find themselves at .500 at Homecoming, when Illinois is in Bloomington. The Illini offense is too strong and IU loses its third in a row.
The slide continues with a close loss at Northwestern, followed by a convincing loss at Iowa. Wisconsin then comes to Bloomington with the Hoosiers at 3-6 and mauls them behind their huge offensive line and power running game.
The game at Penn State is a mismatch and IU leaves with another loss. The Hoosiers enter the Bucket game at 3-8 and looking for a new coach. Athletic Director Fred Glass decides before the game that Coach Bill Lynch's contract will not be renewed, but lets him and his staff finish the season.
In a both a tribute to Lynch and payback for last year's embarrassing loss in West Lafayette, the Hoosiers squeak by Purdue to regain the Old Oaken Bucket and finish at 4-8.
It's another sub-par season for Indiana, but really that is the rule in the last 20 years, not an exception. Once again we hope for next year and eagerly await basketball season.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Early Hoosier basketball thoughts
The Hoosiers won't begin year two of the Tom Crean era for another six weeks, but I want to present my theme for the season.
One word: Finish.
The Hoosiers had a 10-point halftime lead against Lipscomb before losing by five. They were up as many as 20 in the second half against Michigan, before losing in overtime, and had a lead with less than four minutes to go at Penn State before being outscored 6-1 to end the game.
Is it clear yet? The Hoosiers had trouble putting teams away last season. They had trouble playing with a lead and in seemingly every situation demanding a clutch play, no IU player was to be found.
Crean will have nine non-freshmen on the team this year, which is a boat load of experience compared to what he had at the start of last season. I expect team growth, experience and improvement will go a long way toward fixing the clutch problem. The question is will it translate into more than six wins?
Just looking at the schedule, I could see 16 or 17 wins this season, maybe more if the ball bounces the right way. It will depend on the strength of the Big Ten conference this year and whether teams like Kentucky, which has a new coach, and Maryland, which is coming off a sub-par year, play at a level most fans expect.
Bottom line, I'm expecting the Hoosiers to take an adult stride forward this year, not a baby step. And I think that is what Crean is expecting as well.
One word: Finish.
The Hoosiers had a 10-point halftime lead against Lipscomb before losing by five. They were up as many as 20 in the second half against Michigan, before losing in overtime, and had a lead with less than four minutes to go at Penn State before being outscored 6-1 to end the game.
Is it clear yet? The Hoosiers had trouble putting teams away last season. They had trouble playing with a lead and in seemingly every situation demanding a clutch play, no IU player was to be found.
Crean will have nine non-freshmen on the team this year, which is a boat load of experience compared to what he had at the start of last season. I expect team growth, experience and improvement will go a long way toward fixing the clutch problem. The question is will it translate into more than six wins?
Just looking at the schedule, I could see 16 or 17 wins this season, maybe more if the ball bounces the right way. It will depend on the strength of the Big Ten conference this year and whether teams like Kentucky, which has a new coach, and Maryland, which is coming off a sub-par year, play at a level most fans expect.
Bottom line, I'm expecting the Hoosiers to take an adult stride forward this year, not a baby step. And I think that is what Crean is expecting as well.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Hall of Famer Bob Knight
Bob Knight deserves better.
The news this weekend that Knight has been selected for the IU Athletics Hall of Fame is really a no-brainer. The fact that he isn't already a member is an insult. The man has been a member of the basketball Hall of Fame for 18 years.
Now the debate rages about whether Knight should return to Bloomington for the induction ceremonies in November. Athletic Director Fred Glass apparently sent a hand-written note to Knight requesting he attend and has enlisted Bob Hammel, one of Knight's friends, to beg for his attendance.
I like the olive branch approach by the university. And I want to say Knight will decide to let bygones be bygones, attend the ceremony and receive the appreciation of the Hoosier faithful. But I suspect he will decline.
Knight may not want to upstage the other members of his Hall class, as was one guess, which include former soccer coach Jerry Yeagley, who won six NCAA championships at IU. Knight also may not care about the recognition. If he wishes to repair his legacy, honoring him like the other Hall of Famers would be unfair.
Like it or not, Knight is a special case and should be honored in a special way. It should be done in Assembly Hall.
There's no question Knight did not always bring honor and distinction to Indiana University. We are not asking anyone to forget that. But I think it's also time to stop ignoring his accomplishments.
IU clearly wants to mend the fence, and may need to considering the men's basketball program's recent turmoil and rebuilding. Glass wants to gather as many fans as he can, including re-engaging those who left the program after Knight's departure.
If that's the case, why not honor Knight during a basketball game this season? During halftime of a game against Kentucky, Purdue or Ohio State, bring him out to the floor for a few minutes. A great number of former players would gladly speak on his behalf. It may even provide some extra motivation for this year's team in a tough game. Imagine the hype if ESPN had Knight call the game and then televised the halftime ceremony.
Knight deserves better than halftime at a football game. Honor him at the place he made famous and maybe he will return.
The news this weekend that Knight has been selected for the IU Athletics Hall of Fame is really a no-brainer. The fact that he isn't already a member is an insult. The man has been a member of the basketball Hall of Fame for 18 years.
Now the debate rages about whether Knight should return to Bloomington for the induction ceremonies in November. Athletic Director Fred Glass apparently sent a hand-written note to Knight requesting he attend and has enlisted Bob Hammel, one of Knight's friends, to beg for his attendance.
I like the olive branch approach by the university. And I want to say Knight will decide to let bygones be bygones, attend the ceremony and receive the appreciation of the Hoosier faithful. But I suspect he will decline.
Knight may not want to upstage the other members of his Hall class, as was one guess, which include former soccer coach Jerry Yeagley, who won six NCAA championships at IU. Knight also may not care about the recognition. If he wishes to repair his legacy, honoring him like the other Hall of Famers would be unfair.
Like it or not, Knight is a special case and should be honored in a special way. It should be done in Assembly Hall.
There's no question Knight did not always bring honor and distinction to Indiana University. We are not asking anyone to forget that. But I think it's also time to stop ignoring his accomplishments.
IU clearly wants to mend the fence, and may need to considering the men's basketball program's recent turmoil and rebuilding. Glass wants to gather as many fans as he can, including re-engaging those who left the program after Knight's departure.
If that's the case, why not honor Knight during a basketball game this season? During halftime of a game against Kentucky, Purdue or Ohio State, bring him out to the floor for a few minutes. A great number of former players would gladly speak on his behalf. It may even provide some extra motivation for this year's team in a tough game. Imagine the hype if ESPN had Knight call the game and then televised the halftime ceremony.
Knight deserves better than halftime at a football game. Honor him at the place he made famous and maybe he will return.
Friday, August 21, 2009
IU football season preview: The Big Ten schedule
When a team enters the season with as many question marks as the Indiana Hoosiers will this season it's hard to predict a lot of wins. And when they play in a conference the caliber of the Big Ten, it's even harder to predict conference wins.
Sports Illustrated thinks the Hoosiers will go 0 for 8 in conference play this year. I'm not going to go that far. I think there are one or two potential wins out there. Here's my breakdown:
Sports Illustrated thinks the Hoosiers will go 0 for 8 in conference play this year. I'm not going to go that far. I think there are one or two potential wins out there. Here's my breakdown:
- Forget about an upset of Ohio State on Oct. 3 in Bloomington. The Buckeyes may be overlooking the Hoosiers (they play Wisconsin the following week), but I don't think on a bad day they will lose.
- If you think the Hoosiers will win at Penn State Nov. 14, I have a bridge to sell you. Harder than beating a team coached by Joe Paterno is beating one of his teams on the road. Happy Valley will be rocking and the Lions likely will be in the hunt for the Rose Bowl.
- Homecoming will be fun, but the Hoosiers likely won't beat Illinois. Quarterback Juice Williams and wide receiver Arrelious Benn are considered to be two of the best offensive players in the Big Ten. And the Hoosiers defense has trouble stopping teams. IU's defense will be able to rush the passer, but they are suspect at corner and their run defense is expected to be a problem again. This all adds up to a Hoosiers loss.
- The Hoosiers will hang around at Iowa Oct. 31 and against Wisconsin Nov. 7, but lose. Both of these teams seem to have trouble beating the Hoosiers. But I'm not convinced the Hoosiers will be able to hang around and still convert it into a win.
- Watch the Hoosiers play at Michigan Sept. 26. It has been more than 40 years since IU has won there. Michigan is better after last year's disaster season, but stranger things have happened, namely Wolverine Anthony Carter running for a touchdown with no time left to prevent a tie with the Hoosiers in 1979.
- If IU was scheduled to play Northwestern at home, I would say they could win it. But since it's in Evanston, I'm going to vote 'No.' I still think teams with lots of offense like the Wildcats will give the Hoosier defense fits. The offense may end up in too big a hole to win.
- The one winnable game is the last one: Nov. 21 against Purdue. The Boilermakers are rated at the bottom of the conference along with IU. I'm guessing the one conference win SI predicted for them is against IU. Since it is a rivalry game, you forget the records. The Old Oaken Bucket will be on the line and after last year's embarrassment, the Hoosiers may have a chip on their shoulder.
I wish I could put more than one conference win on the board, but I can't. The Hoosiers will beat Purdue for their only win and finish in the Big Ten basement at 1-7. But that is much better than 0-8.
Coming next: Picking the 2009 season.
Other parts of my IU football season preview: Must wins, Upset chances, and Coaches' signature wins, Part I and Part II.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
IU football preview: Must wins
For the purposes of this post, I am going to refer to a must-win as a game the Hoosiers accurately should be expected to get the victory. Given the football team's performance the last several years, there haven't been too many of these games. But here a a couple teams that at least should ensure IU doesn't suffer through an 0-12 season in 2009. I don't think either of these will be easy wins, however.
1. Vs. Eastern Kentucky, Sept. 3: A Division I-AA school. The Hoosiers should out-talent this team just because they have access to much better players than the smaller school in Richmond, Ky. It's also opening night in Bloomington, a rare Thursday prime-time date.
But don't think the Colonels will be a push-over. They are going for their third straight Ohio Valley Conference championship and 32nd consecutive winning season. (I wish IU had that problem.) Is this going to be a Michigan-Appalachian State upset? Probably not. The Hoosiers likely will win it, it may not be a 45-0 blow-out.
2. At Akron, Sept. 19: This is a rare road game where I think the Hoosiers have an advantage. The Zips, a member of the MAC, have the same problem IU does: good offense, bad defense. Last season the team had trouble stopping the run and pass at the same time. That should be a big help for the Hoosiers, who will rely on their offense, not their defense, to win games. Unfortunately, the Akron offense is no slouch either. But I think the Hoosiers' defense should do enough to get the victory.
Unfortunately, that's it. Out of 12 games, there are only two the Hoosiers should win and really must win. That doesn't bode well for the Rose Bowl predictions.
Coming next: The Big Ten schedule.
See also: Upset chances and football coach's signature wins, parts I and II.
1. Vs. Eastern Kentucky, Sept. 3: A Division I-AA school. The Hoosiers should out-talent this team just because they have access to much better players than the smaller school in Richmond, Ky. It's also opening night in Bloomington, a rare Thursday prime-time date.
But don't think the Colonels will be a push-over. They are going for their third straight Ohio Valley Conference championship and 32nd consecutive winning season. (I wish IU had that problem.) Is this going to be a Michigan-Appalachian State upset? Probably not. The Hoosiers likely will win it, it may not be a 45-0 blow-out.
2. At Akron, Sept. 19: This is a rare road game where I think the Hoosiers have an advantage. The Zips, a member of the MAC, have the same problem IU does: good offense, bad defense. Last season the team had trouble stopping the run and pass at the same time. That should be a big help for the Hoosiers, who will rely on their offense, not their defense, to win games. Unfortunately, the Akron offense is no slouch either. But I think the Hoosiers' defense should do enough to get the victory.
Unfortunately, that's it. Out of 12 games, there are only two the Hoosiers should win and really must win. That doesn't bode well for the Rose Bowl predictions.
Coming next: The Big Ten schedule.
See also: Upset chances and football coach's signature wins, parts I and II.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
IU football season preview-Upset chances
Let's be honest. The Indiana Hoosiers football team is not expected to win too many games this year.
But while hoping for a Rose Bowl berth may be just a pipe dream, it is possible to hope for a grand upset. The win where the students storm the field and celebrate. The win where every break goes your way. The win where you catch the powerhouse team completely off guard.
It is a win that can save a coach's job, put a program on the national stage for a week, and raise your status among high-profile recruits. Illinois continues to grow thanks to such a win two years ago over Ohio State. Quarterback Juice Williams became a national name.
Michigan, on the other hand, still suffers from a similar upset. The 2007 loss to Appalachian State put the marque programs on notice that those early non-conference games can never be considered a laugher.
Is there a big upset on the schedule this season for the Hoosiers? Here are two games I think the stars could align perfectly for one:
1. At Michigan, Sept. 26
The Hoosiers haven't won in the Big House for as long as I can remember. Actually it has been 41 years -- the last win coming in 1967, the year of IU's only Rose Bowl appearance. But Michigan is not the powerhouse it has been over the last 10 years. Second-year coach Rich Rodriguez continues to rebuild the program after a terrible first season. Ideally, this game would have been played there last year, but the Hoosiers' pistol offense could cause some trouble for the Michigan defense. And if Michigan's offense plays at the anemic level it did last year, the Hoosiers may be able to scratch out a victory.
Make no mistake, an Indiana win at Michigan Stadium would be an upset, even if the Wolverines aren't a national championship contender this season.
2. Vs. Wisconsin, Nov. 7
Wisconsin has played down to Indiana's level in recent years. In 2001, Cam Cameron's offense-only team rolled over the Badgers by scoring 63 points. And in 2002, Gerry DiNardo's Hoosiers came from behind to win. It's reasonable to assume the Hoosiers, playing at home, could catch Wisconsin sleeping once again.
Either game would take a near-perfect game for the Hoosiers to come out on top. But it's a perfect game that we all desire to see to get a victory of this magnitude.
Coming next: 2009 must-win games
But while hoping for a Rose Bowl berth may be just a pipe dream, it is possible to hope for a grand upset. The win where the students storm the field and celebrate. The win where every break goes your way. The win where you catch the powerhouse team completely off guard.
It is a win that can save a coach's job, put a program on the national stage for a week, and raise your status among high-profile recruits. Illinois continues to grow thanks to such a win two years ago over Ohio State. Quarterback Juice Williams became a national name.
Michigan, on the other hand, still suffers from a similar upset. The 2007 loss to Appalachian State put the marque programs on notice that those early non-conference games can never be considered a laugher.
Is there a big upset on the schedule this season for the Hoosiers? Here are two games I think the stars could align perfectly for one:
1. At Michigan, Sept. 26
The Hoosiers haven't won in the Big House for as long as I can remember. Actually it has been 41 years -- the last win coming in 1967, the year of IU's only Rose Bowl appearance. But Michigan is not the powerhouse it has been over the last 10 years. Second-year coach Rich Rodriguez continues to rebuild the program after a terrible first season. Ideally, this game would have been played there last year, but the Hoosiers' pistol offense could cause some trouble for the Michigan defense. And if Michigan's offense plays at the anemic level it did last year, the Hoosiers may be able to scratch out a victory.
Make no mistake, an Indiana win at Michigan Stadium would be an upset, even if the Wolverines aren't a national championship contender this season.
2. Vs. Wisconsin, Nov. 7
Wisconsin has played down to Indiana's level in recent years. In 2001, Cam Cameron's offense-only team rolled over the Badgers by scoring 63 points. And in 2002, Gerry DiNardo's Hoosiers came from behind to win. It's reasonable to assume the Hoosiers, playing at home, could catch Wisconsin sleeping once again.
Either game would take a near-perfect game for the Hoosiers to come out on top. But it's a perfect game that we all desire to see to get a victory of this magnitude.
Coming next: 2009 must-win games
Saturday, August 1, 2009
IU Signature wins Part II
The second part of my picks for the signature wins of the last five Indiana football coaches begins with Gerry DiNardo.
DiNardo did not last long, coaching three seasons in Bloomington. He won three, two and three games in those years and only one conference game each season. Needless to say no one was surprised when he was fired.
His biggest win in Bloomington was not a Big Ten game. It was a 30-24 win at then No. 24 Oregon on Sept. 11, 2004. Pac 10 powerhouses like USC have trouble winning in Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore. But for some reason, that year, the Hoosiers were able to take care of business.
Looking at the box score, the Hoosiers should have been overwhelmed. Oregon rolled up 495 total yards, including 317 yards passing. The Hoosiers managed only 198 total yards. But Oregon also had seven turnovers to IU's two. The Hoosiers were up 23-0 at halftime and hung on for the win in the second half.
The winning touchdown was a 98-yard kick-off return by Lance Bennett in the third quarter. The Hoosiers would win only one more game that season.
Terry Hoeppner
Hoeppner's effect on Hoosier football has been greater in death than his short coaching tenure. He showed confidence in his team, when no one else would. He wouldn't accept mediocrity from a team that had been mediocre or worse for longer than most could remember.
His signature game was a 31-28 win over then No. 13 Iowa on Oct. 14, 2006 in Bloomington. Hoeppner already had missed a few games to undergo surgery, but had returned a few weeks earlier to resume coaching.
This team had two young players leading it -- freshman quarterback Kellen Lewis and sophomore wide receiver James Hardy. Lewis threw for 255 yards and three touchdowns. Hardy had eight catches for 104 yards and three touchdowns. IU trailed 21-17 at halftime, but took the lead in the third quarter on a Hardy touchdown. After Iowa scored again to take a 28-24 lead, the Hoosiers scored the game-winner with less than 10 minutes to go in the fourth quarter -- another Lewis-to-Hardy touchdown.
It was the biggest football upset by an IU team in nearly 20 years and the coming-out party for Lewis and Hardy. No one knows how good this team could have been if Hoeppner had been the coach in 2007.
Bill Lynch
It was Lynch who took over after Hoeppner's death and had the unfortunate pressure to bring Hoeppner's dream of a bowl berth to reality. "Play 13" was the slogan for the 2007 season. Lewis and Hardy were hitting their stride.
Lynch's career is not over yet, but his signature win was during that 2007 season. It made "Play 13" a reality: Indiana 27, Purdue 24; Nov. 17, 2007. As it turned out that season, IU needed seven wins to qualify for a bowl game. After getting its sixth win two weeks earlier against Ball State (which I witnessed) the Hoosiers had lost to Northwestern by a field goal.
The Purdue game was the final game of the year and the annual grudge match for the Old Oaken Bucket. The Boilermakers already had their seven wins and were looking for number eight and possibly a New Year's Day bowl game.
The Hoosiers had the lead at halftime, 17-3 and early in the third quarter took a 24-3 lead on a touchdown run by Lewis. But Purdue scored three unanswered touchdowns through the rest of the third quarter and most of the fourth to tie the game.
With about 3 minutes to go, the Hoosiers got the ball back and went on a 12-play, 45-yard drive to the Purdue 31 yard line. Austin Starr then nailed a 49-yard field goal to give the Hoosiers the win and a berth in the Insight Bowl.
Lynch fulfilled Hoeppner's first dream. It has yet to be seen whether he can build the program into a regular conference title contender.
DiNardo did not last long, coaching three seasons in Bloomington. He won three, two and three games in those years and only one conference game each season. Needless to say no one was surprised when he was fired.
His biggest win in Bloomington was not a Big Ten game. It was a 30-24 win at then No. 24 Oregon on Sept. 11, 2004. Pac 10 powerhouses like USC have trouble winning in Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore. But for some reason, that year, the Hoosiers were able to take care of business.
Looking at the box score, the Hoosiers should have been overwhelmed. Oregon rolled up 495 total yards, including 317 yards passing. The Hoosiers managed only 198 total yards. But Oregon also had seven turnovers to IU's two. The Hoosiers were up 23-0 at halftime and hung on for the win in the second half.
The winning touchdown was a 98-yard kick-off return by Lance Bennett in the third quarter. The Hoosiers would win only one more game that season.
Terry Hoeppner
Hoeppner's effect on Hoosier football has been greater in death than his short coaching tenure. He showed confidence in his team, when no one else would. He wouldn't accept mediocrity from a team that had been mediocre or worse for longer than most could remember.
His signature game was a 31-28 win over then No. 13 Iowa on Oct. 14, 2006 in Bloomington. Hoeppner already had missed a few games to undergo surgery, but had returned a few weeks earlier to resume coaching.
This team had two young players leading it -- freshman quarterback Kellen Lewis and sophomore wide receiver James Hardy. Lewis threw for 255 yards and three touchdowns. Hardy had eight catches for 104 yards and three touchdowns. IU trailed 21-17 at halftime, but took the lead in the third quarter on a Hardy touchdown. After Iowa scored again to take a 28-24 lead, the Hoosiers scored the game-winner with less than 10 minutes to go in the fourth quarter -- another Lewis-to-Hardy touchdown.
It was the biggest football upset by an IU team in nearly 20 years and the coming-out party for Lewis and Hardy. No one knows how good this team could have been if Hoeppner had been the coach in 2007.
Bill Lynch
It was Lynch who took over after Hoeppner's death and had the unfortunate pressure to bring Hoeppner's dream of a bowl berth to reality. "Play 13" was the slogan for the 2007 season. Lewis and Hardy were hitting their stride.
Lynch's career is not over yet, but his signature win was during that 2007 season. It made "Play 13" a reality: Indiana 27, Purdue 24; Nov. 17, 2007. As it turned out that season, IU needed seven wins to qualify for a bowl game. After getting its sixth win two weeks earlier against Ball State (which I witnessed) the Hoosiers had lost to Northwestern by a field goal.
The Purdue game was the final game of the year and the annual grudge match for the Old Oaken Bucket. The Boilermakers already had their seven wins and were looking for number eight and possibly a New Year's Day bowl game.
The Hoosiers had the lead at halftime, 17-3 and early in the third quarter took a 24-3 lead on a touchdown run by Lewis. But Purdue scored three unanswered touchdowns through the rest of the third quarter and most of the fourth to tie the game.
With about 3 minutes to go, the Hoosiers got the ball back and went on a 12-play, 45-yard drive to the Purdue 31 yard line. Austin Starr then nailed a 49-yard field goal to give the Hoosiers the win and a berth in the Insight Bowl.
Lynch fulfilled Hoeppner's first dream. It has yet to be seen whether he can build the program into a regular conference title contender.
Signature IU football wins
As the Hoosiers begin to prepare for the upcoming football season, I am considering the great IU games of the recent past.
Now that you've stopped laughing, I decided to name one signature win for the last five Hoosier football coaches, beginning with Bill Mallory and ending with current coach Bill Lynch. The selection was not as hard as you might think in some cases. Picking the best win among a series of 3-9 seasons seemed hard at first, but with so few potential selections, it made the choice a lot easier.
Bill Mallory
Mallory likely is among the top two or three football coaches in IU history. He took the Hoosiers to six bowl games, winning two. He also had four seasons with seven or more wins during his 13-year career.
My selection for Mallory's signature win: the 1988 Liberty Bowl. The Hoosiers defeated South Carolina 34-10 and finished the year 8-3-1 and ranked No. 20 in the final Associated Press poll.
Indiana set a bowl record for total offense with 575 yards. Quarterback Dave Schnell threw for 378 yards and Big Ten MVP Anthony Thompson scored two touchdowns and ran for 140 yards. The Hoosier defense only allowed 153 yards. The win assured the Hoosier's highest ranking at the end of the season in Mallory's tenure.
Cam Cameron
Cameron is most noted for finding all-world quarterback Antwaan Randle El, who broke several school and NCAA offensive records. Unfortunately, Cameron won only 18 games during his six-year tenure and never appeared in a bowl game.
My pick for his signature win: Oct. 6, 2001. Indiana thumps Wisconsin 63-32.
Throughout his Hoosier coaching career, Cameron was an offensive coach. His teams could always put points on the board, but lacked defensive skill. This game probably was the height of Cameron's and Randle El's offensive brilliance. The Hoosiers scored 32 points in the first quarter. The game total of 63 was a school record for Big Ten games. It also was the most points scored against the Badgers since 1890.
The Hoosiers rushed for 449 total yards, including 280 from Levron Williams, who also scored six touchdowns. Randle El also threw for 182 yards and rushed for 102.
Cameron could not continue the momentum. The Hoosiers beat Purdue to win the Old Oaken Bucket that season, but finished with a 5-6 record.
What do you think? Leave a comment here.
Coming next: Gerry DiNardo, Terry Hoeppner and Bill Lynch.
Now that you've stopped laughing, I decided to name one signature win for the last five Hoosier football coaches, beginning with Bill Mallory and ending with current coach Bill Lynch. The selection was not as hard as you might think in some cases. Picking the best win among a series of 3-9 seasons seemed hard at first, but with so few potential selections, it made the choice a lot easier.
Bill Mallory
Mallory likely is among the top two or three football coaches in IU history. He took the Hoosiers to six bowl games, winning two. He also had four seasons with seven or more wins during his 13-year career.
My selection for Mallory's signature win: the 1988 Liberty Bowl. The Hoosiers defeated South Carolina 34-10 and finished the year 8-3-1 and ranked No. 20 in the final Associated Press poll.
Indiana set a bowl record for total offense with 575 yards. Quarterback Dave Schnell threw for 378 yards and Big Ten MVP Anthony Thompson scored two touchdowns and ran for 140 yards. The Hoosier defense only allowed 153 yards. The win assured the Hoosier's highest ranking at the end of the season in Mallory's tenure.
Cam Cameron
Cameron is most noted for finding all-world quarterback Antwaan Randle El, who broke several school and NCAA offensive records. Unfortunately, Cameron won only 18 games during his six-year tenure and never appeared in a bowl game.
My pick for his signature win: Oct. 6, 2001. Indiana thumps Wisconsin 63-32.
Throughout his Hoosier coaching career, Cameron was an offensive coach. His teams could always put points on the board, but lacked defensive skill. This game probably was the height of Cameron's and Randle El's offensive brilliance. The Hoosiers scored 32 points in the first quarter. The game total of 63 was a school record for Big Ten games. It also was the most points scored against the Badgers since 1890.
The Hoosiers rushed for 449 total yards, including 280 from Levron Williams, who also scored six touchdowns. Randle El also threw for 182 yards and rushed for 102.
Cameron could not continue the momentum. The Hoosiers beat Purdue to win the Old Oaken Bucket that season, but finished with a 5-6 record.
What do you think? Leave a comment here.
Coming next: Gerry DiNardo, Terry Hoeppner and Bill Lynch.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
The Perfect Game
I'm watching Mark Buehrle's perfect game encore broadcast because I was working during the live showing. It's hard to distinguish this start from most of his other outings, at least after the first few innings.
For my non-Sox fan readers, Buehrle is not a power pitcher. He usually doesn't break 90 mph with his fastball. But he has pinpoint control and can force a lot of ground ball- and fly-outs.
His best was on full display this afternoon against the Tampa Bay Rays. Buehrle dealt 11 ground-ball outs and 10 fly-outs. No heap of strike-outs. That is a typical outing. Buehrle threw 116 pitches. He was working out of several 2-2 and 3-2 counts. And the 25th out of the game was one of the greatest catches ever, when DeWayne Wise robbed Gabe Kapler of a home run.
It was a great pitching performance, and a great defensive effort. I think that is what makes this perfect game, the 18th in MLB history, that much more impressive. It was a perfect game for the entire White Sox team.
A cool fan video of the final out is here.
For my non-Sox fan readers, Buehrle is not a power pitcher. He usually doesn't break 90 mph with his fastball. But he has pinpoint control and can force a lot of ground ball- and fly-outs.
His best was on full display this afternoon against the Tampa Bay Rays. Buehrle dealt 11 ground-ball outs and 10 fly-outs. No heap of strike-outs. That is a typical outing. Buehrle threw 116 pitches. He was working out of several 2-2 and 3-2 counts. And the 25th out of the game was one of the greatest catches ever, when DeWayne Wise robbed Gabe Kapler of a home run.
It was a great pitching performance, and a great defensive effort. I think that is what makes this perfect game, the 18th in MLB history, that much more impressive. It was a perfect game for the entire White Sox team.
A cool fan video of the final out is here.
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