Written by Matt Smith

Offensive coordinator Nick Sheridan met with the media on Thursday during Indiana’s media day. Sheridan is entering his second season as offensive coordinator for the Hoosiers.Sheridan talked a lot about changes that can be made to the Hoosier offense, including what new players he’s most excited about.

“We can be here a long time talking about the things I can do better, you have to make decisions based on the circumstances, and last year certainly was unique to that,” Sheridan said. “You have to make decisions on the volume of scheme you put into an offense, there’s always a fine line… what's too much that a player can’t execute at a high level, but if you don’t do enough then sometimes you can be predictable.”

One of the biggest questions facing the Hoosiers offense this season is the offensive line which had a disappointing season as a group last season.

“I think we are still a work in progress up front relative to the depth piece that you are asking about. I think we have a pretty good idea about who we are anticipating being in the top group or the top group and a half. Those positions are still open and to be determined. But certainly, there are some players there that have a ton of experience that we are expecting to continue to elevate their play,” Sheridan said. “You are talking about the biggest, strongest part of the game. You are getting on the line of scrimmage. Not only from a physicality standpoint, but also from communication and recognition at this level of football it takes time.”

One new addition that was brought in during the offseason was running backs coach Deland McCullough, and Sheridan is very excited to have him on staff this season. Sheridan spoke very highly of McCullough during his press conference and says the running backs room something to be excited for as well.

One of those players is Stephen Carr, a transfer from USC that was brought in during the offseason.

“Seeing him out there on the grass for the first time live, for us and our team and our unit, getting a chance to get our hands on him is big. Early in camp, it’ll be important to see what his role looks like and what’re the things he does well and things we can feature,” Sheridan said.

With all of the new additions and changes coming to the offense this season, one of the biggest ones may be the addition of wide receiver DJ Matthews who transferred from Florida State during the offseason. Matthews will lead the receivers alongside senior Ty Fryfogle.

“ I think some of the physical things that are pretty well known. You have seen from some of the production that he has had in his career just from the elusiveness, the quickness, and the change of direction. Those things have continued to grow, and he has continued to get stronger. You can see that on the film. I think the thing I was most pleased with D.J. was the level of maturity, the experience, the preparation, the note taking, and the film study. Some of those things that a player like him and the overall experiences that he has had, and his maturity has rubbed off on the whole group,” Sheridan said.

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