Bostad Creating Atmosphere of Toughness and Intensity on the Offensive Line
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Image: Indiana University Athletics
Written by Sammy Jacobs (@Hoosier_Huddle)
It was painfully obvious what plagued Indiana’s offense the last two seasons, the offensive line. To remedy the issue, Tom Allen hired Bob Bostad formerly of the Wisconsin Badgers to be the Hoosiers offensive line coach in 2023. Bostad is a no nonsense coach who does not want to be in the spotlight. He just wants to coach as evidenced in a recent ‘Mic’d Up’ session for IU’s social media team.
The impact Bostad has on the offensive line will be judged on how they play this season, but one can already tell the intensity and physicalness of the unit has been taken up a few notches. Which is exactly what Tom Allen wants and the Hoosiers need.
“I love the drill work I love the attention to detail of intensity and toughness that he's created with our guys and he's he's no nonsense guy. He's gonna see I'm expecting improvement in that area.” Allen said.
During drills IU’s offensive line has been more physical than in years past as they have done one-on-one drills against the defensive line more during individual periods.
The Hoosier players have also had to adjust to how Bostad coaches and it appears they are open and receptive to the new style.
“ Michael Katic's one has really embraced that part. You know, he has been here a long time but has played a lot football but you still want to be able to adapt and and I think Kahlil Benson sticks out to me, you know, and Vinny Fiacable has been another one, got dinged up today, he'll be fine, but those guys are stuck out.” Allen said after the Hoosiers’ fifth practice.
The Hoosiers are looking to build depth by bringing along their young offensive linemen
“We are trying to get Josh Sales and Khalil to continue to grow and develop and allow us to build the depth we need to have. I have really been encouraged by that group has done a great job with him.” Allen said.
As spring practice goes on, the defense will start throwing different looks at the offensive and that is where IU has to grow and improve when talking about the big fellas upfront.
“When the defense starts doing twists and gains from third downs. That's not easy to pick up, especially when you present it certain ways.” Allen explained. “We're trying to do our install on both sides of the ball, but at the same time, I think that's created some of the challenges today I think for the o-line on those third downs. We're not scheming each other who's trying to use technique and fundamentals.”
The Hoosiers wrapped up their sixth practice of the spring on Saturday and will end spring practice with a sneak peak at the football team during their Spring Football Event on April 15th.