Indiana's Improved Offensive Line Faces Crucial Test Against Illinois' Stout Defense

Written by Zach Greene

Indiana's offensive line, under the coaching of Bob Bostad, has notably improved this season. They are facing a critical test against Illinois' stout defense. They will encounter challenges with protecting quarterback Brendan Sorsby with the formidable pass rush specialist Johnny Newton, and the game-time decision on tackle Khalil Benson further adds uncertainty to the Hoosiers' offensive strategy.

The past couple seasons, the offensive line has received there fair share of criticism. This year, they have improved showing grit and muritity particularly due to Bob Bostad. the program’s new offensive line coach who wil need to get his unit ready to go out of the gates for tomorrow’s game.

“First of all, offensively, they (Illinois) are really stout in the box. They have some really good and physical players and one of the best defensive lineman in the country, and they’ve got a good scheme and system that they run well, so we have to do a great job of executing up front. That is going to be a big matchup for us and the offensive line is going to have to play really well. We have got to be able to run the football and that’s the bottom line and I know that’s hard against them, but that’s what we need to be able to do, and just execute.” Allen said a key to getting the win against the Illini. 

Allen also gave praise to Austin Barrett an emerging talent who has routinely stood out to him in practice.

For the offensive line they will need to step up Saturday and create running room to create managable third down situations for the Hooisers redshirt freshman quarterback Brendan Sorsby.

As Allen states, “each week you talk about these things, but third down efficiency. That obviously starts on first and second down, but we have to try and stay out of third-and-long for our offense.”

Brendan Sorsby could be limited in tomorrow’s as he and the offensive line have a tough task against future first rounder and pass rush specialist Johnny Newton. Illinois has a stout defensive line with players with experience and tenacity. They are in for a challenge tomorrow as Keith Randolph is another NFL type talent standing at 6’5 305 pounds with a great initial burst and quickness.

Additionally, the status of O-Linemen Khalil Benson appears that he will be a game time decision. This will be a something to keep an eye as the Hooisers offensive line goes against one of the best defensive line’s in the country.