Hoosiers Quarterback Carousel to Continue

Written by Matt Smith

The Indiana football team lost any chance they had at a bowl game this Saturday with a crushing loss to Penn State at home. The quarterback position was a big question going into the game with Jack Tuttle getting the start before getting hurt.

The Hoosiers then turned to freshman quarterback Brendan Sorsby and Dexter Williams who each got their first reps against a very talented defense.

Walt Bell wasn’t very impressed with either quarterback during the game, but did see a lot of potential from both of the young quarterbacks

“Two guys getting their first reps, against a really good defense,” Bell said. 

Bell said that Sorsby played like how you think a freshman would play, while Williams went in and did some very good things, but also did some very bad things.

“Two guys that were able to get their feet wet,” Bell said. “Excited to see them moving forward, both are going to be good players for us.”

Dexter Williams has been the focus for many of the fans throughout the past couple of weeks. With the turmoil at the quarterback position, the Hoosiers are open to trying many different quarterbacks. 

“He’s got all the natural physical skills,” Bell said. “He’s unrefined right now.”

Bell did not shut down the chance for Williams to play even with the announcement that Connor Bazelak would be returning to the starting job this weekend against Ohio State.

Williams not only has potential as a player, but also as a leader. He is a very likable locker room guy.

“He’s a guy that everybody loves,” Bell said. “He’s been here and he’s been through a difficult time while being here.”

Bell said he is a joy to coach and that he is easy to coach. Williams has been here for a couple of years.

One of the issues with playing some inexperienced quarterbacks, is that the offense is limited, and many of the plays are not in the young guys arsenal just yet.

Another one of the struggles for the Hoosiers has been converting on third down, they had seven three and outs against Penn State, and were not able to sustain many drives.

With Indiana’s bowl hopes essentially being over, the Hoosiers will need to try and plug in some of the young players in order to help their development.