The Indiana Hoosiers have clearly been known more for their basketball program over the years than their play on the gridiron. After all, the Hoosiers had 11 consecutive losing campaigns on the football field from 2008 through 2018.

All that changed in 2019 with an 8-5 record and their first top 25 ranking at any point in a season since 1994. During a limited 2021 season due to COVID-19, the Hoosiers peaked at number 7 in the AP Poll and had great college football odds. Although they fell in the Outback Bowl, extending their bowl losing streak to six, the Hoosiers finished with a record of 6-2.

Heading into the 2021 season, the Hoosier have several preseason All-American selections, who look to take the team to the next level. Cornerback Tiawan Mullen, linebacker Micah McFadden, and wide receiver Ty Fryfogle earned honors after successful 2020 seasons.

Fryfogle won the 2020 Big Ten Richter-Howard Receiver of the Year and first team All-Big Ten. HIs 112 catches for 1719 yards was recognized by the team, earning Most Outstanding Offensive Player of the Year. Fryfogle is ranked among the school’s best in career yards and receptions and could break the top ten in both this season.

McFadden paced the Hoosiers in tackled last season with 58, including six sacks, along with three quarterback hurries and two interceptions. A nightmare for opposing offenses, McFadden led the Big Ten in sacks, becoming the first Hoosier to accomplish that feat since Greg Middleton in 2007.

Mullen made life difficult for opposing quarterbacks throwing in his direction. He made 38 tackles, intercepted three passes, forced a fumble, broke up four passes, and led the secondary in sacks. Mullen’s efforts earned him first-team All-American to become only the second in the history of the program to do so.

Other offensive players that could really step up and make headway this season include receive D.J. Matthews, quarterback Michael Penix, tight end Peyton Hendershot, and tackle Matthew Bedford. On the defensive side of the ball, cornerback Jaylin Williams, safety Devon Matthews, and defensive end Ryder Anderson could have big years, while returner Reese Taylor, and kicker Charles Campbell are preseason All-Big Ten.

The Hoosiers have a tough road to travel in the Big Ten battling the likes of Ohio State, Michigan, Michigan State, and Penn State. Winning the conference may be a stretch, but the Hoosiers have enough talent moving forward to make some noise and end their drought in bowl games.

The Huddle

Preseason All-Americans Look to Lead Hoosiers’ Football in 2021

Hoosier Huddle