Written by Matt Smith

Last week against Cincinnati the Hoosiers lost their All-American linebacker Micah McFadden to a questionable targeting call in the second quarter. This was a huge blow to the Hoosiers defense and ultimately led to the Bearcats 38-10 run to end the game.

Defensive coordinator Charlton Warren met with the media on Monday and said he made no scheme adjustments after he went out, he just expected the remaining players on the defense to “make plays,” to win the game

When the Hoosiers lost McFadden they not only lost the player, they also lost his leadership.

“You can’t replace him on the field, our defense just can’t get into a hole,” Warren said. “You miss his presence, you miss his play making ability, but at no point in my mind because we lose a single player can we not do our job.”

The player with the task to replace McFadden was Thomas Allen who was chosen to play over James Miller, which was just a personal choice according to Warren.

As far as Western Kentucky this week, the Hoosiers will face a high tempo offense who is very good on third down.

“I look forward to the challenge,” Warren said. “What a tremendous opportunity, the best passing team in the country, and the best third down team in the country, it's a tremendous challenge to go out there and execute, do what we do best from a standpoint of cover, communication, and pattern match.”

The Hilltoppers do a lot on the offensive side of the ball with a veteran quarterback as well as wide receivers. Warren said they do a lot of trick plays that will keep the defense on their toes as well.

A highlight on the defensive side of the ball is Ryder Anderson who transferred from Ole Miss during the offseason.

“He’s brought some grit and some toughness,” Warren said. “He’s a warrior out there, he plays a bunch of snaps cause he wants to, he gives us something on first, second and third down.” Warren said.

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