Three & Out Defense: Week 2 Navy Midshipmen

Written By Sammy Jacobs (@sammyj108)

Welcome back to our “Three and Out” series as we will take a
look at the keys for the Hoosier defense heading into Saturday evening’s game
with Navy.  Navy will present
Indiana with the unique challenge of trying to stop the triple option.  This type of offense is very difficult
to game plan for, however it is not unstoppable.  As you prepare to head down to Bloomington or are just
settling in on the couch for the weekend here are some of the defensive keys to
stopping this potent running attack from the Midshipmen.

1. Stay Disciplined on Defense- This does not just mean not
committing stupid penalties, but also not doing too much or trying to be a
hero.  In order to stop the triple
option offense a defense must stay on assignment.  If your read is the quarterback stay on the quarterback and
let the man covering the fullback take the fullback.  Of course avoiding silly penalties is also a must in order
to win any game.  It is vital in
the effort to stop the rushing attack of Navy.

2. Get off the field- The Hoosier defense did a solid job
against Indiana State of limiting drives and getting off the field when they
had a chance.  Due to the nature of
Navy’s offense the Hoosiers will not get as many possessions as they would
against a “normal” team.  Last year
Indiana only had 10 total possessions against the Midshipmen.  If the defense can create more possessions
for the Hoosiers through turnovers and 3rd down stops, Indiana
should have no trouble dispatching a tough Navy squad.

3. Make Tackles- Navy’s offense is not as explosive as many
think, however if you miss tackles against them a play that should go for no
gain ends up going for four or five yards.  With a young Hoosier defense good tackling should be a
priority over going for the big hit.
For the Hoosiers to get the victory the defense must play physical, but
not out of control.

Week two may be too early to call this a must win game, but
playing a team that does not have the talent or depth that Indiana has and
playing at home this game is huge for the Hoosiers’ bowl aspirations.  Navy is bringing a good crowd to
Bloomington and Hoosier Nation should be out in full force after a full day of
festivities, but Indiana must protect the Rock.