Best of IUFB in 2023: A look Back on the Year that Was for Indiana Football
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Written by Sammy Jacobs (@Hoosier_Huddle)
The calendar will flip to 2024 soon and the 2023 season will be a memory buried in the past. Before we send 2023 into the time capsule, Hoosier Huddle wants to look back at the year that was for Indiana Football.
Despite a 3-9 (1-8) record and a coaching change, the Hoosiers had some bright moments on and off the field. Let’s take a look at the ‘Best of 2023’.
Best Game: Illinois 48 Indiana 45 OT
Yes, this game was a loss for the Hoosiers and a particularly crushing one as well. However, this game had a last minute comeback by IU to force overtime and lots of people on offense making plays. It was entertaining, even though IU fell short.
Best Win: Indiana 20 Wisconsin 14
The Hoosiers lone Big Ten win was a good one and over a brand name that IU had not beat at home since 2002. It was also the final win of the Tom Allen Era.
Best Individual Offensive performance: WR Donaven McCulley vs. Illinois
Illinois had no answer for McCulley as he made 11 catches for 137 yards and two touchdowns. He made contested catch after contested catch and when he wasn’t making catches he was drawing penalties. McCulley’s defenders were called for 5 penalties (four accepted).
Best Individual Defensive Performance: LB Aaron Casey at Purdue
Aaron Casey left it all out on the field for IU in the Bucket Game loss to Purdue. He made 11 tackles four of which came for a loss including a sack and he also forced a fumble.
Best Special Teams Performance: P James Evans vs. Ohio State
Evans gave IU an advantage over the Buckeyes in the punting game as he averaged 54.2 yards per punt on six boots. Four of his punts traveled over 50 yards.
Best Quote
"We're going to change the culture, the mindset, the expectation level, and improve the brand of Indiana Hoosier football. There will be no self-imposed limitations on what we can accomplish. It will be a day-by-day process that is hinged on being focused on the present moment and improving as much daily as possible to put yourself in the best position tomorrow.” —Curt Cignetti (12/1/23)
“Google me” will be the popular pick here, but this quote from Curt Cignetti’s introductory press conference should be music to the ears of IU football fans. There has always been an excuse with IU football and everyone from the Board of Trustees to the “fan” who never left the tailgate are complicit to it. That mindset should change with time.
With that, I am looking forward to 2024 and see where IUFB goes. Please share your memories of the 2023 season in the comments.