Keys to a Hoosier Victory in the Old Brass Spittoon Game
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Written by Andrew Walker
As Indiana prepares to take on 5-5 Michigan State in East Lansing, the Hoosiers have to be considering a few things. Among all the bad games and poor play Indiana’s been through, there’s still a lot to learn in the final two games of the season. As I mentioned last week, when Ohio State pulled away, Indiana played the young guys. Head coach Tom Allen got a glimpse of a few of his younger offensive linemen, QB Dexter Williams, and many others. That’s valuable information that will undoubtedly help him next season. Let’s take a look at a few keys to victory over the Michigan State Spartans.
Get the passing game going again
Dexter Williams may be a very capable quarterback in his own right, but last week the passing attack just wasn’t there. Ohio State played arguably their most impressive defensive game against the Hoosiers, and it wasn’t even close. This Saturday, Indiana will take on a Michigan State defense that gives up the second most passing yards in the Big Ten. Hopefully Williams can get some meaningful yards through the air against a defense that’s had trouble in the passing game.
Hoosiers pass defense has to be better
Unfortunately, in complete parallel to the previous statement, Indiana gives up the most passing yards per game in the Big Ten. Lose-lose situation, sure, but Indiana has to be able to stop redshirt junior Payton Thorne through the air. Tiawan Mullen needs to be able to rekindle some of that takeaway energy he had in past seasons. The defense also will have an opportunity to play some younger players that may have bigger roles in upcoming seasons, which is always a good glimpse into the future.
Trophy Games are Big
While IU will not be bowling this season, the Hoosiers do have two trophy games to end the 2022 season. The first one is the Old Brass Spittoon against Michigan State on Saturday. There is still a lot to play for and getting possession of the Spittoon back can start changing the mood in Bloomingotn.