Hoosiers Focus is on the Big Picture Despite Recent Struggles on the Field

Written by Sammy Jacobs (@Hoosier_Huddle)

The Indiana Hoosiers enter their homecoming game against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights with a record of 2-4 (0-3). While the focus of the fan base and the national media has shifted from the performances on the field to how hot Tom Allen’s seat is, the Hoosiers themselves are trying to focus on the big picture.

That picture is that the Hoosiers have six games left, five of which should be considered toss ups (ducks from message board comments). However, the noise about the end of the Tom Allen Era is getting louder and louder.

“I think you have to look at the big picture. You got to understand what your goals are and the fact that they are all still in front of you and are all still available to you is a great motivator, without question. But you can also get caught up in the discouragement of not having recent success your last couple of weeks.” Indiana head coach Tom Allen said on Thursday.

The Hoosiers have been outscored 96-24 over the last two games and needed four overtimes to beat a one-win Akron team. The vibes around Memorial Stadium, at least on the outside, are becoming toxic.

“You just do not get discouraged, you don't doubt yourself, you just stay the course. Is that hard to do, absolutely, which is why you have to spend so much time individually addressing it. But you bring the energy, you bring the focus, and you let the guys follow that lead.” Allen explained.

Saturday’s game against the Scarlet Knights is a must win. A must win for Allen, the 2023 team and the program. That’s a lot of pressure, but Allen says IU is trying to keep the big picture in focus despite that pressure building.