Three and Out Week 1: Offense

Tevin Coleman looks to roll over the Sycamores 

Written By Sammy Jacobs (@Hoosier_Huddle)

By now Hoosier Nation will be on their second brat or burger and second glass of, let’s just call it orange juice. The Hoosiers finally have their starting quarterback, even if fate decided it for them. They enter 2014 with extremely high expectations. Last year the Hoosiers put up a whooping 73 points on Indiana State. Could they top that number this season? We’ll just have to see. Here are the three keys to an IU victory on offense.

1. Dominate the Line of Scrimmage- IU has one of the most experienced and talented lines in the Big Ten. It is time for them to show the nation why. The veteran group should open up holes for Tevin Coleman and give Nate Sudfeld enough time to pick apart the Sycamore defense. While some penalties could be expected in the first game of the season, the line should be disciplined and keep them to a minimum.

2. Let Tevin Run- The Hoosiers are blessed with one of the best running backs in the country and its time to let him run. After only carrying the ball more than 20 times once in 2013 it is the moment to see what Tevin Coleman can do getting the majority of the carries. However, if the Hoosiers do get out to a huge lead they should not just play him for the hell of it. Get him the carries early in the game and let him do his thing. He should have his way against an FCS foe and at least break 100 yards.

3. Tempo and Consistency- One of the biggest issues the Hoosiers faced last season was being consistently good on offense. Yes, they put up monster numbers, but IU could have been better. It is unrealistic to expect the Hoosiers to score on every single drive, however they could improve by cutting down the number of three and outs they have. Having one quarterback should help quell the issue.