Countdown to Kickoff 84 Days (Danny Friend)

Hoosiers take the field against the Indiana State Sycamores - Photo Credit: Nick Holmes

Written By: Nick Holmes (@HoosierHolmes)

We are just 12 weeks or 84 days away until the Hoosiers take the field to battle the Salukis of Southern Illinois. Today we take a look at redshirt sophomore tight end Danny Friend. 

The Illinois native made his way to Bloomington in the summer of 2013 after an outstanding prep career at Morris Community High School, where he saw action on both sides of the ball. On offense he lined up at tight end, catching 15 balls for 283 yards and four touchdowns as senior. While on defense he saw action at end, recording 56 tackles, seven sacks, three interceptions, one forced fumble, one recovered fumble and a blocked field goal. His efforts did not go unnoticed as he was an Illinois High School Football Coaches Association Class 5A All-State selection. 

Danny Friend - Tight End
	RS Sophomore 6'5''/261 Morris, Ill Morris Community	Season	Games Played
		2014	Redshirt Season
		2013	12

During his first season with the Hoosiers he saw action in all 12 games, mostly on special teams. Going into the 2014 season Indiana was looking to replace one of its most prolific pass catchers at tight end, Ted Bolser, and there was some hope that Friend could help make up for some of the lost production. Unfortunately suffering a knee injury in preseason camp, Wilson made the decision to redshirt him this past season.

FUTURE OUTLOOK

Now entering his third year with program, Friend will be in a fierce competition with three other experienced tight ends for playing time. The Hoosiers are still looking for answers at a position that only produced 10 receptions for 95 yards and a touchdown in 2014. At the very least, Friend looks to provide depth on offense and will likely contribute on special teams once again.