Defense Carries the Load Yet Again in Narrow Loss to Michigan State

Written by Sammy Jacobs (@Hoosier_Huddle)

The Indiana Hoosiers defense held Michigan State to 13 points, 241 total yards and held the nation’s leading rusher to just 84 yards on 23 carries. It was a performance that every fan base would sign up for when playing Michigan State. However, the Hoosiers gave up another pick six and could not muster enough offense to win.

“I thought our defense played awesome. I don't know what else to say. They did everything you asked them to do except maybe score. That's the one thing they didn't do is score a touchdown.” Indiana head coach Tom Allen said after the 20-15 loss. The Hoosier defense may need to score more if the offense cannot figure it out.

The Hoosier defense was without All-American cornerback Tiawan Mullen all game and without corner Reese Taylor for the majority of the game. However, the secondary played well led by Noah Pierre who had nine tackles and an interception.

“Another week that we didn't have Tiawan [Mullen], our All-American cornerback. Then, Reese [Taylor], I expected him to play at least half the game, but he went the one series and just couldn't keep going. So, you had two of your top three corners didn't even play against some really talented receivers I thought.

So just an overall -- defensively, you mentioned Micah [McFadden], he was just everywhere. It's just hard to believe they they're able to complete that pass to the quarterback on a reverse and then the quarterback makes a toe-tap catch after Micah is in the guy's face trying to make the throw. Hats off to them for making a play there. But, yeah, Micah played hard like he always does and very good. Led the defense. Thought our defense -- like I said -- did what they were supposed to do to help us win.” Allen said.

The Hoosiers received another outstanding game from linebackers Micah McFadden and Cam Jones who combined for 17 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and two pass breakups.

The defense of the Hoosiers have nothing to hang their heads about. They have played outstanding all season and give this team a chance to win week after week, but football is still a team game and they’re not pointing fingers.

“Football is a team game.” Linebacker Micah McFadden said. “Everybody is responsible when something like this happens. There is no pointing fingers or anything like that. Everybody in the locker room must stay together. It is difficult at a time like this but that is when leadership comes in. The captains step up and say what they need to say.”