Countdown to Kickoff: 53 Days (Shawn Heffern)

Written By: Nick Holmes (@HoosierHolmes)

Good morning Hoosier Nation, I hope everyone made it through last night safe and sound. Our countdown continues, now 53 days left until the Hoosiers emerge from the North End Zone amidst fireworks and the sound of the Hoosier Hundred. Today we take a look at a veteran member of the defensive line, Shawn Heffern.

The Carmel, In. native was a member of the Hoosiers 2012 recruiting class. Prior to arriving on campus that summer, Heffern played his prep ball at Carmel High School. Where, as a senior, he posted 72 tackles, 6.5 sacks, 13 tackles for loss, two forced fumbles and one interception and helped lead the Grey Hounds to a state championship. Additionally, he was recognized for his outstanding individual play, adding numerous accolades including being named to the 2011 Indiana Associated Press Class 5A All-State team and being selected by Indiana Football Coaches Association as one of the Top 50 players in the state. 

The 6'6", 275 pound Heffern was able to redshirt his first season (2012) down in Bloomington, but still found a way to make an impact, as he was a three-time scout player of the week. The following season he saw action in seven games, started in one and was named Academic All-Big Ten. In 2014 he played in all 12 games, recording 18 tackles, 1.5 for loss, and two pass breakups and was once again named Academic All-Big Ten.

Future Outlook

Senior Nick Mangieri is the favorite  to start at defensive end this fall, but who will provide depth behind him? Currently, it looks as if Heffern and sophomore Robert McCray III will be pushing each other for time. It's no secret that the Hoosiers have to improve their pass rush and all three players will be called upon to make this happen.