IU Will Raise the Victory Flag Against Akron If…

Written by Sammy Jacobs (@Hoosier_Huddle)

The Hoosiers return home on Saturday for their final non-conference game as they host the Akron Zips. Both teams enter at 1-2 and desperately need a win. IU will be wearing their new black jerseys (although they will not be for sale to the public) and hosting their first ‘black out’ game. Indiana will raise the Victory Flag against Akron if…

1. Put Together a Full Four Quarters

The Hoosiers are around a 17-point favorite and really should come out of Saturday with their second win of the season. However, IU needs to put together a full game for the first time this season. Akron is a good opponent to do that. They are good enough to put a scare in IU if the Hoosiers have a lull in any quarter, but bad enough to the point that IU should have their way.

2. Open Up the Passing Game

The IU offense really got humming after Walt Bell started spreading Louisville out in the second half. The Hoosiers need to find that rhythm earlier on Saturday. Tayven Jackson was excellent in the second half and those first half jitters should be a thing of the past as he gets more comfortable starting games. Akron does not have the horses that Louisville has and he should be comfortable all night long to make plays with his arm and his feet.

3. Win the Special Teams Battle

IU played their best special teams game last week and Akron comes in as one of the weakest special teams units IU will face in 2023. The Zips have missed three field goals already this season and average under 39 yards per punt. IU should dominate in this phase of the game. If not, it could be a closer game than anticipated.