Written by Andrew Walker

The Indiana Hoosiers are coming off of a convincing and predictable win against UConn last weekend 38-3. Peyton Ramsey and co. was able to pick apart the Husky defense with ease. The Hoosier defense did their part to hold UConn to only three points. Overall, Indiana had what it takes to beat a team like UConn, but their upcoming game against Michigan State will be a different story. Let’s take a look inside the numbers for both teams to see where they stand.

Third down conversions

Indiana - 49%

It’s no secret that Indiana’s third down conversion percentage has been trending up from last season. Up from about 42% to almost 50% is a great increase in efficiency, and is ultimately giving the Hoosiers more chances at the endzone. Indiana is scoring on average seven more points this year, compared to last year and a continually rising third down conversion percentage is helping that.

MSU - 45%

The Spartans have had their own troubles getting to the first down marker on third downs as well this year. Last year, however, MSU was abysmal in third down conversions at only 33%.

Penalty yards

Indiana - 21 for 209 yards

In football, there’s little more than yards taken away from your team by way of penalty. The Hoosiers have been relatively successful at keeping penalties down, so that’ll have to keep being a point of emphasis if Indiana wants to come out successful in East Lansing.

MSU - 31 for 280 yards

The Spartans have been surprisingly bad at keeping the yellow flag off the turf in 2019. It’s proven to be a weakness for MSU, and with a somewhat important game coming up against an Indiana team that might have a good shot at making it a game, the Spartans need to keep penalties to a minimum.

Passing numbers

Indiana - 308 YPG and nine TDs on the season

For Indiana to continue success in the passing game, Mike Penix needs to be the starting QB and play well. I don’t think it’s any secret that Peyton Ramsey can’t run Kalen DeBoer’s offense as well as it should be run. The ability for Penix to come into a game and lead this team makes Indiana about as good as they can possibly be, and the Hoosiers hope to see that on Saturday.

MSU - 268 YPG and seven TDs on the season

Michigan State QB Brian Lewerke has been doing very well to start of the season. He’s completing over 60% of his passes and has accounted for all seven passing touchdowns. The Spartans don’t throw the ball as much as Indiana does, thus accounting for less YPG, but don’t count out Lewerke and the receiving corps in the redzone to make a play.

The Huddle

Inside the Numbers: Indiana at Michigan State

Hoosier Huddle