Five Takeaways From Indiana's Dominating 34-3 Win Over Northwestern
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Image: Amanda Pavelka Hoosier Huddle
Written by Andrew Walker
Tom Allen must be drinking the tallest glass of vindication after this win against Northwestern. The Hoosiers came out on top 34-3 against the Wildcats, and with Indiana’s seventh win in the bag, things are looking up. As Indiana was running up the score last night, Hoosier faithful had to see the writing on the wall and understand that this team is actually good. With the Hoosiers one win above bowl eligibility for the first time since 1993, let’s take a look at five takeaways from Saturday’s victory.
1. Mike Penix and Peyton Ramsey both played well
The elephant in the room is a question that everyone was left asking in the wake of the game. “What’s the situation on Mike Penix?” As of right now, there’s no official word on the status of Penix. It’s confirmed that he was seen walking to the locker room after taking a hit on the goal line in the second quarter. Looking past speculation on Penix, Ramsey came in from then on out and played really well. Ramsey came away with just over 100 yards passing and one TD after replacing Penix.
2. Stevie Scott had an absolute day
The Hoosier RB came away with 118 yards on the ground and two TD’s to go with. Averaging almost five yards per carry, Scott broke off some great long runs when Indiana needed it most. 27 yards marks the longest run Scott had against the Wildcats, and when the Ramsey or Penix couldn’t get the job done, Scott was there to resurrect the drive.
3. IU receiving corps had a quiet but effective day
Even though nobody for the Hoosiers had over 100 yards receiving on the day, Indiana’s receivers made the big plays when they needed. Whop Philior and Donovan Hale showed out with a few flashy catches and huge first downs when needed. That seems like a huge key to victory for this game against Northwestern. Players made plays when they had to. Even though IU beat Northwestern by 31 points, players stepped up in their most needed moments.
4. Defense had some great takeaways
Three fumble recoveries was an outstanding outing from this Hoosier defense that also had lots of big plays and a sack. A great showing from a defense that’s been historically pretty good this season, especially when they need to be in close games. Defensive success in close games also seems to be a turning point for this Hoosier football team as opposed to previous years.
5. A rare winning season for the Hoosiers doesn’t seem like a fluke
I know what some cynical Hoosier fans will say, and have already said. “One winning season doesn’t mean anything to me. A few in a row and then we’ll talk.” Cynicism in sports is a natural occurrence in fandom. These people are still fans, don’t get me wrong. But it’s hopefulness and spirit that drives a team forward. This team under Tom Allen is no longer cynically driven to a losing season. This season is a season that will make or break the mindset of Hoosier faithful, current players, and hopeful recruits alike. Will we all be a part of false hope, Or will there be more winning football to come? With the way Tom Allen and Co. are running this Hoosier football team, there’s no reason why we all shouldn’t subscribe to the later.