Indiana looked to be on the verge of going bowling for the first time since 1993 after their first five games a season ago. New HC Terry Hoeppner instilled a sense of confidence that had been missing since the days of Bill Mallory. However, once the schedule got tougher, the Hoosiers impressive stats plummeted and Indy once again had to watch Bowl Week from the comfy confines of their living rooms. With the slate wiped clean in 2006, the Hoosiers definitely have a roster on hand capable of flirting with bowl contention. QB Blake Powers is back for his junior campaign after throwing for 2305 yards to a banged up WR corps with 22 TDs and 16 INTs. Look for the Hoosiers offensive unit to excel in the second year of HC Hoeppner’s schemes, and for them to easily topple the 22.5 PPG they averaged in ’05. Defensively, the front seven looks very green, but its anchored by a veteran secondary that returns fully intact. Last year’s “D” only gave up 22 PPG before the Big 10 schedule got rough, so look for them to chisel off 10 PPG on the year if not more. Special Teams can only improve with everyone back.
With three of their first four games at home, look for the Hoosiers to possibly be undefeated when they welcome in the Badgers on September 30. A win that day will have this squad destined to go bowling come December. Either way, Bloomington, IN will no longer be considered a “free pass” for all who venture there. The Hoosiers have to be taken seriously from here on out, and for as long as HC Hoeppner and company are coaching the team. |
