Written By: Nick Gonzales (@nrgonzales_)

It’s no mystery that Indiana has been great at running the ball so far this season. The Hoosiers lead the Big Ten and Power Four schools in rushing touchdowns with 23 total and that can be credited to the dynamic group of running backs in Bloomington. It can be difficult sharing the spotlight, especially as a running back, but their unselfish mindset has helped them in achieving success so far.

“Yes, you know, definitely not be selfish. Definitely come out here every day and put your all into it. Cig (Curt Cignetti) is very big on that, just us coming out and practicing hard every single day, and we just get the job done. Well, coming in, we all knew that we'll rotate, and I feel like it definitely, probably does have to do with some character. We all were fine with it, we all trust each other to be out there on that field, so that's all that matters.” Ty Son Lawton replied about sharing the spotlight in the running back room.

It's been apparent all season that these backs are comfortable in sharing the spotlight. Each week they’re doing their best to stay consistent and perform because there are still a lot of doubters that believe Indiana’s success is a fluke. They still feel like they have something to prove but remain levelheaded to ensure that the outside noise doesn’t get to them. They’re a great group of guys who want nothing more than the success of this team and the success of each other.

“I'm just grateful to be a part of this group. Everyone is having success together and it's very exciting to be a part of it. Like I said, it's something that I've been used to in the past, so I don't really mind it. As long as we're running and winning as a collective.” Kaelon Black stated on how it’s been sharing the reps in his Tuesday interview.

Their unselfishness has helped tremendously in the run game because it gives them the ability to rest up and stay fresh throughout the game. They all trust each other so it puts their mind at ease knowing that they will be able to go out on the field and play aggressively to put the team in the best possible position. However, they are not satisfied with being just good, they want to be great.

“We need to be able to shut teams out and drive the ball downfield consistently. We definitely showed that last game as well but there were definitely sometimes where we were a little sluggish from certain drives.” Justice Ellison said during his media availability on Tuesday.

Curt Cignetti has been saying for months now that their goal for this season isn’t to just be alright or good, it’s to be great. He doesn’t want to be second best or third best, he wants the team to be THE best. That mentality has affected all the players, and they are always hungry for more. Ellison, Lawton, and Kaelon have been electric so far this season. They are truly a special group of guys that the Hoosiers are lucky to have this season. They’re preparing to face off against a tough Nebraska team but believe the bye week was very beneficial. They feel rejuvenated and ready to dominate in the run game this Saturday.

The Huddle

Indiana's Running Back's Unselfishness Has Led to Their Success

Hoosier Huddle