Hoosiers Look to Send 'Special Group' of Seniors Out with a Bucket Game Win

Image: Indiana University Athletics

Written by Sammy Jacobs (@Hoosier_Huddle)

One way or another the Indiana Hoosiers will end their season on Saturday night in Bloomington. While the season has not got the way these seniors envisioned, they have been a special group for the Indiana football program.

There are 27 seniors or senior+’s on this years team and they have seen both the highs and lows of the program over the last six seasons. There have been a pair of five win seasons, two January bowl games and the pitfall of 2021. This season has the potential of turning into a rebound year with a win, but either way this group has left its mark on IU football.

“It's a special group, like you said, some six-year guys in there. Been here a long, long time. Came in with the first class that was here that we recruited that whole year. And just all the effort they've given us.” Allen said of the class. “They've been a part of the breakthrough in '19 and '20, and they persevered through a tough year last year and then this year's been challenging as well. So, a special group of guys that I have a lot of respect for, tremendous love for. It's going to be an emotional day, to be honest. But at the same time, we work together, fight together, cry together, laugh together. And I want us to have one awesome finish to this group of guys' time together here at Memorial Stadium.”

With the emergence of the transfer portal and the potential of other players leaving to this the professional waters, the team could look much different in 2023. The Hoosiers hope they can send out the seniors with their second win over Purdue.

“Couldn't have a better opportunity than to play your rival game at home with a group of seniors that have come here to create change and have been part of that change and want to finish off the right way, and a chance to win both of our trophy games would be huge.” Allen said on Monday.

It may be until a few days after the game that we find out who is coming back and who is leaving the program as Allen and his staff will meet with players after the Bucket Game.

“(The)NCAA has given us actually a dead week. Used to be we would be out recruiting Sunday morning after we play the game on Saturday. Now that week is dead.” Allen explained. “And really for the purpose of being able to be with you guys, meet with all the players. It won't be as urgent as far as meeting with them right away that first thing in the morning, like we did last year. But at the same time, it will happen that next week and have a chance to sit down with families and talk it through.
But don't have the same number of guys in that situation but do have a few. And so, we always just want to make sure they know we want to help them make the best decision for themselves, make sure they have all the information they need. Then they as a family have to make that call. And we'll support them either way.”

Senior Day festivities will take place on Saturday as the Hoosiers host the Boilermakers in the Old Oaken Bucket game.