Tom Allen Wants to Maximize Indiana's Roster with New Redshirt Rule

Tom Allen addresses the media in Chicago Image: Sammy Jacobs Hoosier Huddle

Written by Sammy Jacobs (@Hoosier_Huddle)

One of the most discussed topics at this year's Big Ten Media Days has been the new redshirt rule that will allow a player to participate in up to four games, any four games, before they use a year of eligibility. Indiana is a team that could be impacted the most from this rule as they have struggled with depth and injury issues in 2017. Indiana head coach Tom Allen addressed the new rule at the podium Tuesday morning.

"It's a great rule" Allen told the crowd in Chicago, "Great for young men, great for our programs to be able to allow us to maximize our rosters."

However, this rule will not be without its challenges. Allen said that he and the IU staff would have to "do a great job, though, of evaluating guys throughout fall camp to decide who is going to fit in that window to be able to maximize their skill set on special teams and offense and defense throughout the season."

Planning a strategy to use this rule is extremely important and it seems like Allen has a plan in place.

"Obviously you have four games to work with, it gives you some flexibility, whether it's at the beginning of the year, if a guy is ready early on. Some guys are not. Those might be ready later on. Last year we experienced some injuries, and this opportunity was discussed a year ago, and really thankful and really excited about the new rule. I just think it's great for the game itself and player safety. So I just think as a staff we have to have a great plan. And we've already discussed this. And fall camp will kind of, I believe, help us really sort out who is going to be in those positions. And then once we get into the season, we'll make those decisions."

With an effort to play more players on defense and a strong incoming freshman class, you can see a big number of freshman taking advantage of this rule.