Countdown to Kickoff: 74 Days (Nate Hoff)

Written by: Lydia Knoll (@lydddknoll)

#74

There are now 74 days remaining until the Indiana Hoosiers kick-off the 2016 season in Miami against the Florida International Golden Panthers. Join us each day for each part of our 100-day countdown to the opener! Current IU player, Nate Hoff is wearing #74.

Nate Hoff (Junior)

-Height: 6’2”
-Weight: 302 pounds
-Hometown: Solon, OH
-Position: Defensive lineman

Hoff began his Indiana football career in 2013 redshirted but quickly made his presence known the following year when he started eight games and appeared in all twelve games of the season. As a redshirted freshman, Hoff made 29 tackles, ranking him second of all the Indiana defensive linemen. He was also ranked third in sacks and TFLs for all Big Ten Freshman. That season he was named a Freshman All-America honorable mention as well All-Big Ten Freshman team honorable mention. The following season, Hoff appeared in all thirteen games but did not make as significant an impact as his previous season. As he heads into his fourth season at Indiana football, Hoff stands at a critical point in his career; his performance capable of making him a big-time college standout or an average student athlete. 

With guys like Ralph Green, Greg Gooch, and Nile Sykes, as well as other returning players, the defensive line stands very experienced. We’ve seen Hoff play at a high level and if he is capable of performing at that level consistently throughout summer training and fall camp then he stands a chance at making a  big impact on the field. However, if he is inconsistent he could quickly lose his spot to a younger, returning player such as Omari Stringer who redshirted last season and will be eagerly looking for playing time. The line is no doubt deep in talent which is great for the team but could prove to be a challenge for the players looking to find their moment to shine. 

Share any comments about Nate Hoff or the defensive line in the comments section (or on the message boards) and be sure to come back to Hoosier Huddle each day during our countdown!