IU Will Raise the Victory Flag Against Indiana State If…

Written by Sammy Jacobs (@Hoosier_Huddle)

The Indiana Hoosiers take on the Indiana State Sycamores in Bloomington on Friday night. IU is 6-0 all-time against the Sycamores and should be heavy favorites when the line comes out.. After every victory in football the Hoosiers raise the Victory Flag high above Memorial Stadium, so IU will raise the Victory Flag if…

1. Bring Their Own Juice

The Hoosiers shouldn’t expect a large crowd on Friday night as it is a lighter opponent and a weeknight game, so the Hoosiers will need to supply their own juice. There also could be a let down after playing against one of the top teams in the country in Ohio State. However, players can bring their own energy to Memorial Stadium and create excitement with big plays on offense and defense.

2. Open up the Offense

IU is not playing an FBS level defense on Friday night and that should allow Walt Bell and the rest of the offense to be as aggressive as they way. If the Hoosiers wanted to stay in the fight as long as possible last week, they need to get the TKO quickly on Friday. Both quarterbacks should be given a chance to open the playbook as well. This is a chance to see what Tayven Jackson, who will get the start, and Brendan Sorsby can do. It is also important to establish the wide receivers and build their confidence heading into the Louisville game next week.

3. Don’t Look Ahead to Louisville

Speaking of the Louisville game, the Hoosiers cannot be caught looking ahead. It is always tempting to overlook an FCS foe, especially with arguably the most important game on the schedule up next. The Hoosiers have had some close calls against Indiana State and other FCS foes under former head coach Kevin Wilson in 2012 and 2015. IU has more talent and depth, so focus is the only thing that could keep them from controlling the game from start to finish.

4. Win the Turnover Battle

Indiana won the turnover battle against Ohio State 1-0 and scored their only three points off an interception. Meanwhile Indiana State gave the ball away six times including two pick sixes. Turnovers are the big equalizer in college sports (see Clemson at Duke) and can lead to major upsets. The offense took care of the ball last week although they were super conservative with their playcalling. On defense, the Hoosiers goal is to get three takeaways per game. That goal could be accomplished this week against the Sycamores.