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(04/26/17 11:10pm)
NFL Mock Draft 4.0
By: Andrew Vailliencourt and Will DeWitt
Andrew Vailliencourt’s Mock Draft
Cleveland- Myles Garrett, DE, Texas A&M
This should be an easy pick for Cleveland, but if there’s any team that can make things harder than they need to be, it’s the Browns.
San Francisco- Solomon Thomas, DE, Stanford
There’s a lot of mystery surrounding this pick, and the 49ers would like to trade down, but adding Thomas would build on a promising defensive line.
Chicago- Malik Hooker, S, Ohio State
This pick likely is down to either Hooker or Jamal Adams, I think the Bears see Hooker as more of a playmaker that is needed in a division with Aaron Rodgers and Matthew Stafford.
Jacksonville- Leonard Fournette, RB, LSU
If Fournette is available here, it’s hard to see how he won’t be the pick. It makes too much sense after spending money on the defense in free agency.
Tennessee- Jonathan Allen, DT, Alabama
The Titans have a lot of options here, and would love to trade back, but I decided on Allen after originally slotting them Marshon Lattimore. Adams is also a possibility here, but Allen is too good to pass on as long as he’s healthy.
New York Jets- Marshon Lattimore, CB, Ohio State
The Jets secondary is a mess and Lattimore is a good start to fixing it. This pick will likely come down to Lattimore and either Hooker or Adams, whichever is still available, unless the pick is traded to Cleveland.
Los Angeles Chargers- Jamal Adams, S, LSU
The Chargers are just hoping either Hooker or Adams is here at seven.
Carolina- Christian McCaffrey, RB, Stanford
This match has picked up steam over the last couple weeks, and McCaffrey would certainly be a nice weapon for Cam Newton.
Cincinnati- Derek Barnett, DE, Tennessee
There are several ways the Bengals could go here, as linebacker and wide receiver are certainly possibilities, but Barnett gives them a solid pass rusher.
Buffalo- O.J. Howard, TE, Alabama
This pick will probably be a receiving weapon, whether it be a wide receiver or tight end. It’s either Howard or Mike Williams here.
New Orleans- Taco Charlton, DE, Michigan
The Saints need defense and lots of it. Charlton has one of the highest ceilings of any prospect.
Cleveland- Mitchell Trubisky, QB, North Carolina
The Browns snag what they hope will be their future quarterback. They might trade up to get him, but I’ll be surprised if Trubisky isn’t a Brown.
Arizona- Mike Williams, WR, Clemson
Arizona would be thrilled with the options it has to pick from here. Reuben Foster, Pat Mahommes or one of the top corners are all possible here, but with an aging Larry Fitzgerald and not much else at receiver, Williams is the easy choice.
Philadelphia- Marlon Humphrey, CB, Alabama
Until Tuesday, I had Gareon Conley slotted here, however, his legal trouble surrounding a sexual assault will likely cause him to fall out of the first round, or at least a handful of picks. Humphrey is the next best corner in available.
Indianapolis- Reuben Foster, LB, Alabama
The Colts take a chance on one of the most talented players in the draft who also happens to play a position of need. Foster could go as high as nine, but won’t fall past 21 or 24 after his combine issue, injury history and diluted drug sample.
Baltimore- Corey Davis, WR, Western Michigan
Cam Robinson would make a ton of sense here too after the Ravens lost tackle Ricky Wagner to Detroit in free agency. However, Davis is a stud wide receiver and would be just what Joe Flacco needs.
Washington- Haason Reddick, LB, Temple
Reddick’s stock has risen dramatically throughout the draft process, and he can carve out a role with the Redskins.
Tennessee- John Ross, WR, Washington
Tennessee will look to add either a receiver or cornerback with this pick. It just so happens that the speedy Ross is still available, filling a need.
Tampa Bay- Dalvin Cook, RB, Florida State
With Doug Martin suspended and often injured, Cook fills a need and adds another element to an offense that now looks terrifying on paper.
Denver- Cam Robinson, OT, Alabama
Finally an offensive lineman. Robinson is the best tackle in the draft, and Denver would be pleased to see him still available at 20.
Detroit- T.J. Watt, LB, Wisconsin
The Lions would love for Reuben Foster to fall this far, but I just can’t see that happening. Instead they grab J.J.’s brother, who had an outstanding year at Wisconsin and provides an immediate boost to the Lions defense. Jarrad Davis is also a possibility.
Miami- Forrest Lamp, OG, Western Kentucky
Lamp is seen by many as the best overall lineman in the draft.
New York Giants- Garrett Bolles, OT, Utah
Bolles is still here after Robinson was taken by Denver. Tight end is also a possibility.
Oakland- Jarrad Davis, LB, Florida
Davis has injury concerns, but when healthy he’s a monster on the field.
Houston- Pat Mahommes, QB, Texas Tech
The Texans get themselves a starting quarterback.
Seattle- Kevin King, CB, Washington
Seattle likes tall corners, so this just seemed like a good fit. Offensive line is a possibility here as well, especially if Lamp or Ryan Ramcyzk are available.
Kansas City- DeShaun Watson, QB, Clemson
The Chiefs are a wild card, they could go defense, trade back or take their quarterback of the future.
Dallas- Charles Harris, DE, Missouri
Harris has been rising as of late, and could go even higher than this. If he’s gone, Jabrill Peppers is an intriguing option.
Green Bay- Adorree’ Jackson, CB, USC
The Packers need secondary help, Jackson helps with that. Conley is a possibility here, depending on how teams view his legal situation.
Pittsburgh- Jabrill Peppers, S, Michigan
I don’t see Peppers falling very far, despite the diluted sample at the combine. Peppers is still one of the most physically gifted players in the draft and would fit in well with the Pittsburgh defense. He’s skilled not just as a defender, but as a returner and as a running back.
Atlanta- Takkarist McKinley, DE, UCLA
Atlanta could really go anywhere with this pick, or trade down with a team trying to move up for a quarterback. They have a need at edge rusher.
New Orleans- Zach Cunningham, LB, Vanderbilt
After grabbing a defensive end at 11, the Saints come back with a tackling machine that can start from day one. Corner is a strong possibility as well.
Will DeWitt's Mock Draft 4.0
Browns - Myles Garrett, DE, Texas A&M
Despite all of the talk about taking Mitch Trubisky here, I just don’t see how Cleveland can pass up on the amazing Garrett. Right? … Right?
49ers - Leonard Fournette, RB, LSU
This may come as a surprise, but the 49ers new-look offense under Kyle Shanahan needs a more prolific back than Carlos Hyde, and that player is Fournette.
Bears - Jamal Adams , S, LSU
The Bears have not had a pro bowl safety since 2005 and would be wise to draft the best one that has come their way while they have a chance.
Jaguars - Solomon Thomas, DE, Stanford
Jacksonville gets lucky as Thomas escapes the first three picks, and I don’t think the Jags will complain about getting one of the most intriguing players in the draft.
Titans - Jonathan Allen, DE, Alabama
The consensus is that Tennessee will aim to bolster their defense with the fifth pick and Allen is the best defender on the board.
Jets - Marshon Lattimore, CB, Ohio State
New York needs to upgrade its atrocious secondary. This pick does the trick.
Chargers - Malik Hooker, S, Ohio State
Back-to-back Buckeyes off the board. The Chargers take care of the back end of their defense with Hooker.
Panthers - O.J. Howard, TE, Alabama
Want to give opposing defenses nightmares? Imagine the dual tight end threat of Howard and Greg Olsen …
Bengals - Cam Robinson, OT, Alabama
Cincinnati has eleven picks in this draft, so they have plenty of time to find playmakers as this is a deep class, which is why they should get the top tackle here.
Bills - Mitch Trubisky, QB, North Carolina
The Bills aren’t married to Tyrod Taylor and he may very well be on his way out after the season. The Bills would be wise to find his replacement here.
Saints - Derek Barnett, DE, Tennessee
. New Orleans must find another edge rusher.
Browns - Tre’Davious White, CB, LSU
Trubisky was not available so Cleveland settles by upgrading its secondary.
Cardinals - Mike Williams, WR, Clemson
Getting this year’s top wideout with the 13th pick? Yes please.
Eagles - Taco Charlton, DE, Michigan
The Eagles have a need at edge rusher after the departure of Connor Barwin.
Colts - Dion Dawkins, OG, Temple
The Colts always seem to need more protection upfront for Andrew Luck.
Ravens - Charles Harris, DE, Missouri
Harris would be an immediate upgrade to Baltimore’s front-seven.
Washington - Reuben Foster, LB, Alabama
Even though he had a positive drug test at the combine, I don’t think it will deter Washington away from taking the best linebacker in the draft.
Titans - John Ross, WR, Washington
After bolstering their defense at No. 5, the Titans give Marcus Mariota a new option in the passing game.
Buccaneers - Obi Melifonwu, S, Connecticut
Melifonwu’s stock keeps rising as the Bucs can’t help but snag the tantalizing safety prospect.
Broncos - Ryan Ramczyk, OT, Wisconsin
I can’t stress enough how much the Broncos need quality players at tackle.
Lions - Hasson Reddick, LB, Temple
Detroit’s offense can put up points in bunches. With this pick, the Lions get a player to stop opposing offenses from doing the same.
Dolphins - Forrest Lamp, OG, Western Kentucky
Last year’s first round pick Laremy Tunsil is moving to tacke, and the Dolphins fill the fresh void at guard by drafting Lamp.
Giants - Garett Bolles, OT, Utah
New York missed out on their target at tackle last year and they don’t waste a second by getting their man in 2017.
Raiders - Jarrad Davis, LB, Florida
Oakland needs to address the linebacker position and Davis can make an immediate impact.
Texans - Patrick Mahomes, QB, Texas Tech
. Houston admits that Brock Osweiler was a grand mistake and retain Mahomes in the Lone Star State.
Seahawks - Kevin King, CB, Washington
King can step in and become Seattle’s nickel corner, which is a position that they need to fill.
Chiefs - Deshaun Watson, QB, Clemson
Kansas City needs to find the eventual replacement for Alex Smith, which makes this an ideal situation for both the Chiefs and Watson as the young quarterback gets time to develop.
Cowboys - Adoree’ Jackson, CB, USC
. Dallas gets a dynamic player who has experience in all three phases of the game, and after losing Morris Claiborne in free agency, the Cowboys must address the secondary.
Packers - Christian McCaffrey, RB, Stanford
Eddie Lacy is now in Seattle and Green Bay would be wise to find another back besides a converted wide receiver.
Steelers - David Njoku, TE, Miami
Big Ben asked the front office to find him a prolific tight end and his wish becomes their demand as the Steelers select one of the best at the position in the draft.
Falcons - Jordan Willis, DE, Kansas State
Atlanta needs to find a player who can consistently apply pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Saints - Zach Cunningham, LB, Vanderbilt
Cunningham is one of the best players still up on the board and the Saints get a player who can anchor the middle of their defense.
(04/14/17 1:26am)
NFL Mock Draft 3.0
By Andrew Vailliencourt and Will Dewitt
Andrew Vailliencourt’s Mock Draft 3.0
Cleveland – Myles Garrett, DE, Texas A&M
San Francisco – Solomon Thomas, DE, Stanford
Chicago – Jamal Adams, S, LSU
Jacksonville – Leonard Fournette, RB, LSU
Tennessee – Jonathan Allen, DT, Alabama
New York Jets – Marshon Lattimore, CB, Ohio State
Los Angeles Chargers – Malik Hooker, S, Ohio State
Carolina – Derek Barnett, DE, Tennessee
Cincinnati – Corey Davis, WR, Western Michigan
Buffalo – Mike Williams, WR, Clemson
New Orleans – Reuben Foster, LB, Alabama
Cleveland – Mitchell Trubisky, QB, North Carolina
Arizona – O.J. Howard, TE, Alabama
Philadelphia – Christian McCaffrey, RB, Stanford
Indianapolis – Taco Charlton, DE, Michigan
Baltimore – Cam Robinson, OT, Alabama
Washington – Jabrill Peppers, S, Michigan
Tennessee – John Ross, WR, Washington
Tampa Bay – Dalvin Cook, RB, Florida State
Denver – Garrett Bolles, OT, Utah
Detroit – Haason Reddick, LB, Temple
Miami – Forrest Lamp, OG, Western Kentucky
New York Giants – David Njoku, TE, Miami
Oakland – Marlon Humphrey, CB, Alabama
Houston – DeShaun Watson, QB, Clemson
Seattle – Ryan Ramcyzk, OT, Wisconsin
Kansas City – Pat Mahommes, QB, Texas Tech
Dallas – Budda Baker, S, Washington
Green Bay – Tre’Davious White, CB, LSU
Pittsburgh – T.J. Watt, LB, Wisconsin
Atlanta – Tak McKinley, DE, UCLA
New Orleans – Kevin King, CB, Washington
Will DeWitt’s Mock Draft 3.0
Browns - Myles Garrett, DE, Texas A&M
49ers - Solomon Thomas, DE, Stanford
Bears - Jamal Adams , S, LSU
Jags - Leonard Fournette, RB, LSU
Titans - Marshon Lattimore, CB, Ohio State
Jets - Malik Hooker, S, Ohio State
Chargers - Jonathan Allen, DE, Alabama
Panthers - O.J. Howard, TE, Alabama
Bengals - Cam Robinson, OT, Alabama
Bills - Mike Williams, WR, Clemson
Saints - Derek Barnett, DE, Tennessee
Browns - Mitch Trubisky, QB, North Carolina
Cardinals - Deshaun Watson, QB, Clemson
Eagles - Tre’Davious White, CB, LSU
Colts - Dalvin Cook, RB, Florida State
Ravens - Corey Davis, WR, Western Michigan
Washington - Reuben Foster, LB, Alabama
Titans - John Ross, WR, Washington
Buccaneers - Budda Baker, S, Washington
Broncos - Ryan Ramczyk, OT, Wisconsin
Lions - Jabrill Peppers, S, Michigan
Dolphins - Taco Charlton, DE, Michigan
Giants - Zach Cunningham, LB, Vanderbilt
Raiders - Jarrad Davis, LB, Florida
Texans - Patrick Mahomes, QB, Texas Tech
Seahawks - Kevin King, CB, Washington
Chiefs - DeShone Kizer, QB, Notre Dame
Cowboys - Charles Harris, DE, Missouri
Packers - Christian McCaffrey, RB, Stanford
Steelers - Obi Melifonwu, S, Connecticut
Falcons - Malik McDowell, DL, Michigan State
Saints - Adoree’ Jackson, CB, USC
(04/02/17 11:33pm)
NFL Mock Draft 2.0
By: Will DeWitt and Andrew Vailliencourt
Will DeWitt’s Mock Draft 2.0
Browns - Myles Garrett, DE, Texas A&M
49ers - Solomon Thomas, DE, Stanford
Bears - Jamal Adams , S, LSU
Jags - Leonard Fournette, RB, LSU
Titans - Jonathan Allen, DE, Alabama
Jets - O.J. Howard, TE, Alabama
Chargers - Malik Hooker, S, Ohio State
Panthers - Marshon Lattimore, CB, Ohio State
Bengals - Cam Robinson, OT, Alabama
Bills - Mike Williams, WR, Clemson
Saints - Taco Charlton, DE, Michigan
Browns - Mitch Trubisky, QB, North Carolina
Cardinals - Reuben Foster, LB, Alabama
Eagles - Takkarist McKinley, DE, UCLA
Colts - Tre’Davious White, CB, LSU
Ravens - Corey Davis, WR, Western Michigan
Washington - Zach Cunningham, ILB, Vanderbilt
Titans - John Ross, WR, Washington
Buccaneers - Christian McCaffrey, RB, Stanford
Broncos - David Njoku, TE, Miami
Lions - Jabrill Peppers, S, Michigan
Dolphins - Obi Melifonwu, S, Connecticut
Giants - Garett Bolles, OT, Utah
Raiders - Marlon Humphrey, CB, Alabama
Texans - Ryan Ramczyk, OT, Wisconsin
Seahawks - Adoree Jackson, CB, USC
Chiefs - Deshaun Watson, QB, Clemson
Cowboys - Teez Tabor, CB, Florida
Packers - Dan Feeney, G, Indiana
Steelers - DeShone Kizer, QB, Notre Dame
Falcons - Forrest Lamp, G, Western Kentucky
Saints - Chidobe Awuzie, CB, Colorado
Andrew Vailliencourt’s Mock Draft 2.0
Cleveland – Myles Garrett, DE, Texas A&M
San Francisco – Jamal Adams, S, LSU
Chicago – Jonathan Allen, DT/DE, Alabama
Jacksonville – Leonard Fournette, RB, LSU
Tennessee – Corey Davis, WR, Western Michigan
New York Jets – Marshon Lattimore, CB, Ohio State
LA Chargers – Malik Hooker, S, Ohio State
Carolina – Solomon Thomas, DE, Stanford
Cincinnati – Reuben Foster, LB, Alabama
Buffalo – Mike Williams, WR, Clemson
New Orleans – Derek Barnett, DE, Tennessee
Cleveland – Mitchell Trubisky, QB, North Carolina
Arizona – DeShaun Watson, QB, Clemson
Philadelphia – Dalvin Cook, RB, Florida State
Indianapolis – Taco Charlton, DE, Michigan
Baltimore – Cam Robinson, OT, Alabama
Washington – Zach Cunningham, LB, Vanderbilt
Tennessee – Marlon Humphrey, CB, Alabama
Tampa Bay – John Ross, WR, Washington
Denver – Ryan Ramcyzk, OT, Wisconsin
Detroit – Haason Reddick, LB, Temple
Miami – Forrest Lamp, OG, Western Kentucky
New York Giants – O.J. Howard, TE, Alabama
Oakland – Christian McCaffrey, RB, Stanford
Houston – Garrett Bolles, OT, Utah
Seattle – Quincy Wilson, CB, Florida
Kansas City – Pat Mahommes, QB, Texas Tech
Dallas – Jabrill Peppers, S, Michigan
Green Bay – Tre’Davious White, CB, LSU
Pittsburgh – DeShone Kizer, QB, Notre Dame
Atlanta – Takkarist McKinley, DE, UCLA
New Orleans – T.J. Watt, LB, Wisconsin
(03/16/17 5:00pm)
By: Andrew Vailliencourt
@AndrewVcourt
Following Indiana’s 75-63 loss to Georgia Tech in the first round of the NIT, the school has announced that Tom Crean will not return as head basketball coach next season.
Crean went 166-135 in nine seasons at IU. He turned the program around after devastating sanctions, reaching the NCAA Tournament five times, Sweet 16 three times and winning the Big Ten regular season championship twice. However, after missing the NCAA Tournament twice in the last four years, it became clear that someone else is needed to take IU to the top. Crean should be thanked and cheered for by fans moving forward, as it is important to remember that he did bring back the Hoosiers to relevancy.
However, it’s time to move forward. This list takes a look at a number of possible targets IU should have to replace Crean.
THE DREAM HIRES
BRAD STEVENS, BOSTON CELTICS
Career Record: 166-49 in six seasons at Butler, 155-158 in four seasons with Boston Celtics.
2016 Salary per USA Today: $3.66 million
Why it makes sense: This would be the Jim Harbaugh type hire for the Hoosiers, bringing home the Indiana native. Stevens went to two Final Fours at Butler, and has turned the Boston Celtics into a contender in his short time there. There’s not a single fan that would say no to this.
Why it won’t work: Stevens isn’t leaving the NBA. He has a great team in Boston and has all the resources he could ever want. It’s simply a pipe dream. Fred Glass has to at least make the call though and tell Stevens the job is his if he wants it. He’d have to offer Stevens a blank check.
BILLY DONOVAN, OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER
Career Record: 502-206 in 21 seasons (Two at Marshall, 19 at Florida), 92-56 in two seasons with Oklahoma City Thunder.
2016 Salary per USA Today: $6 million
Why it makes sense: Donovan is an outstanding college coach. He led Florida to two national titles and four Final Fours in his time with the Gators, and made the NCAA Tournament 14 times. He is a great recruiter and his in game coaching is top grade in both college and the NBA. He led the Thunder to the Western Conference Finals last season. After Kevin Durant left the team to go to the Warriors, it’s possible that Donovan could want to return to the college game, where he can build his team the way he wants instead of living and dying by his lone superstar, Russell Westbrook. He would command a salary north of the six million he currently makes (as would Stevens) but Indiana is going to need to open to checkbook for any candidate on this list. If you want a top level coach, you have to pay top level money.
Why it won’t work: The obvious question is whether or not Donovan would consider leaving the NBA. He has a playoff team in Oklahoma City, even if they don’t have much of a chance at winning anything in the short term. If he did decide to leave the NBA, would he come to Indiana? Or wait for a Duke or North Carolina job to open up? Indiana also might not be willing to pony up the money necessary to get a guy like Donovan. This would be a reach, but would qualify as a slam dunk hire should it happen.
THE NOT-SO REALISTIC SHORT LIST
SEAN MILLER, ARIZONA
Career Record: 338-112 in 13 seasons (five at Xavier, eight at Arizona)
2016 Salary per USA Today: $4.35 million
Why it makes sense: Miller is back in the NCAA Tournament for the 10th time this season, leading the Wildcats to a No. 2 seed. He’s reached four Elite Eight’s and six Sweet 16’s between his time with Xavier and Arizona. Miller is an elite recruiter, and hasn’t coached a team with double digit losses since the 2011-12 season when Arizona went 23-12. Miller entertained leaving Arizona for the Pittsburgh job recently (his alma mater) and could possibly be talked into leaving for IU with enough money.
Why it won’t work: The chances of Miller leaving what he’s built at Arizona is slim. He’s arguably in a position that is better than he’d be in if he left for IU. Arizona is a top program in college basketball and Miller is as close as ever to being able to reach his first Final Four. Not to mention that Miller is already getting paid a ton of money, so opening the checkbook might not be enough to land him.
TONY BENNETT, VIRGINIA
Career Record: 256-115 in 11 seasons (three at Washington State, eight at Virginia)
2016 Salary per USA Today: $2.1 million
Why it makes sense: Bennett has made seven NCAA Tournament’s, including now four straight at Virginia. He has reached two Sweet 16’s (one at Washington State) and one Elite Eight. Virginia is not an easy place to win, playing in ACC, and Bennett might want to be at a place that’s an easier sell to recruits. He has shown he can beat the best competition in the country, winning the ACC regular season title in 2014 and 2015, and has recruited the state of Indiana, stealing away Kyle Guy, who was Indiana’s Mr. Basketball in 2016. He was offered the IU job previously, but turned it down. Now, IU is in a much better position than it was nine years ago, and can pay him a whole lot more.
Why it won’t work: Bennett’s teams can be hard to watch. They play incredibly slow on the offensive end, despite outstanding defense. It’d be a massive change compared to what IU has done the past few seasons, and might literally bore fans to death. Bennett, like others, could view himself to be in a better position than he’d be in should he come to IU, and would likely take a lot of convincing to leave what he’s built. His teams also have had a tendency to collapse in the big dance, losing in back-to-back years to Michigan State – first in the Sweet 16 and then in the second round, and falling to Syracuse in the Elite Eight last season.
THE REALISTIC SHORT LIST
ARCHIE MILLER, DAYTON
Career Record: 139-62 in six seasons at Dayton
2016 Salary per USA Today: $692,547
Why it makes sense: Miller is arguably the hottest name among mid-major coaches. He has now led Dayton to four straight NCAA Tournament selections, and reached the Elite Eight in 2014 with the Flyers. He is just 38 years old, and is ready to make the jump to an elite major program. He’s accomplished everything you can do at Dayton, but now needs to resources of a school like Indiana to take his career to the next level. He’s been an assistant at Arizona, Ohio State, Arizona State, NC State and Western Kentucky. Money won’t be an issue, even though Miller makes a little more than a million dollars a year with his new contract (USA Today number not updated yet), the only issue could be a large buyout. The jump to a major program worked out well for his brother Sean at Arizona, and it should for him at IU if he is offered the job. Expect Miller to be the top reasonable option.
Why it won’t work: Miller’s alma mater, NC State has an opening this year as well, and despite rational thinking that Indiana is a much better job, sometimes emotion and the draw of an alma mater can trump that thinking. It’s also possible that Miller just really loves Dayton, and doesn’t want to leave. He has had chances to leave before but hasn’t. However, IU is the type of job that would be tough for him to say no to.
GREGG MARSHALL, WICHITA STATE
Career Record: 454-172 in 19 seasons (nine at Winthrop, 10 at Wichita State)
2016 Salary per USA Today: $3 million
Why it makes sense: Marshall is one of the best coaches in the country, despite being at a mid-major. He gets paid like it too, making about the same as Tom Crean made at IU. He’s made the NCAA Tournament 13 times, making the Final Four in 2013, Sweet 16 in 2015 and his team was a No. 1 seed in 2014. He also won the NIT in 2011. This year marks the sixth straight tournament appearance for Wichita State under Marshall. If IU offered enough money, Marshall might be willing to make the jump to a major program. IU is on the level that could draw him away from Wichita State. His coaching talent paired with elite recruits would be a sight to behold.
Why it won’t work: Marshall is comfortable at Wichita State, and gets paid enough that he never has to leave if he doesn’t want to. He can pick anywhere he goes next. He very well could decide he wants to stay at Wichita forever. If he decides he is willing to leave, it will probably cost a fortune, but again, if IU wants a top level coach it needs to pay up. Marshall has turned down multiple jobs at the Power Five level, most recently Alabama. But he hasn’t gotten an offer from a school on Indiana’s level before.
THANKS, BUT NO THANKS
FRED HOIBERG, CHICAGO BULLS
Career Record: 115-56 in five seasons at Iowa State, 74-75 in two seasons in Chicago
2016 Salary per USA Today: $5 million
Why it makes sense: Hoiberg was very successful in his time with Iowa State, leading the Cyclones to four NCAA Tournament appearances and a Sweet 16 berth. Now with the Bulls, there’s a chance he will either be fired or decides he wants to return to the college game where he was more comfortable. Indiana would be an upgrade over Iowa State, but keep him in the Midwest.
Why it won’t work: Hoiberg only coached Iowa State for five years, and never made it past the Sweet 16. He may not be proven enough for IU’s taste. He also has struggled in the NBA. It could be very costly to poach him from the Bulls, as Chicago stills owes him a lot of money, and IU might have to top the $5 million a year he makes right now. He also could stay with Chicago and decide he doesn’t want to go back to college. Rumors are he was not a huge fan of recruiting and it’s difficult to go back once you get a taste of life without it in the NBA. The timing with the end of an NBA season compared to college hoops could also cause problems, just as it would with Stevens and Donovan. Hoiberg is the most likely to leave the NBA of the three NBA coaches on this list.
STEVE ALFORD, UCLA
Career Record: 479-250 in 22 seasons (four at SW Missouri State, eight at Iowa, six at New Mexico, four at UCLA)
2016 Salary per USA Today: $2.63 million
Why it makes sense: The former Indiana great is having his best season yet at UCLA, a program similar in stature to Indiana. He’s made the NCAA Tournament 10 times, and reached the Sweet 16 three times, twice at UCLA. Alford may have interest in returning to his alma mater, and depending on what other candidates say, he might be on IU’s list of possibilities. He’s coached in the Big Ten before, leading Iowa to the tournament three times and the NIT three times.
Why it won’t work: As much as Hoosier Nation may love Alford as a player, he really hasn’t done a whole lot as a coach, and probably wouldn’t be in the discussion if it weren’t for his IU ties. He underachieved at Iowa, and was on the hot seat at UCLA before his strong season this year. Alford also has a huge buyout. If he were to leave UCLA before April 30, he would owe the school $7.8 million, and $5.2 million if he left after that date. This alone makes the possibility of Alford leaving pretty slim.
THE BACKUP PLANS
CHRIS MACK, XAVIER
Career Record: 183-90 in eight seasons at Xavier
2016 Salary per USA Today: $1.18 million
Why it makes sense: Mack has been terrific at Xavier, leading the Musketeers to seven NCAA Tournament appearances in his eight seasons. He has reached the Sweet 16 three times, and won two conference championships. Xavier has a history of producing great coaches, including Thad Matta (Ohio State) and Sean Miller (Arizona). Mack is the next man up, and could very well see success at a school like Indiana, should it come calling. Mack also has some Indiana ties, as he played two years of basketball at Evansville before transferring to Xavier. Money would be no problem here, as Indiana could offer much more than he makes currently.
Why it won’t work: Xavier is his alma mater, which could make Mack not want to leave. While highly successful, one could argue two of his three best teams came with Miller’s players during his first two years on the job. He’s had double digit losses in five seasons, but did make the big dance in four of those five. Mack likely won’t be first up on the call list, but should the Miller brothers and Marshall say no, Mack wouldn’t be a bad backup plan.
CHRIS HOLTMANN, BUTLER
Career Record: 112-84 in six seasons (three at Gardner-Webb, three at Butler)
2016 Salary per USA Today: n/a (but likely around $1 million)
Why it makes sense: Holtmann has led Butler to three straight NCAA Tournaments and is seen as one of the better up and coming coaches in college hoops. He recruits the state of Indiana well, and would almost certainly jump from Butler to IU. He beat Indiana this past season.
Why it won’t work: Holtmann probably doesn’t have enough major experience to get the IU job. Just three years at Butler without advancing past the second round isn’t going to be good enough for most fans. You won’t find many people that disagree that he has potential, but he may need one more stop before a job like Indiana, or at least a few more years. However, should other candidates turn down the job, Holtmann could get a look.
CHRIS COLLINS, NORTHWESTERN
Career Record: 72-59 in four seasons at Northwestern
2016 Salary per USA Today: n/a
Why it makes sense: Collins has done what seemed impossible and gotten Northwestern into the NCAA Tournament. He turned the program around in four years after being an assistant coach at Duke for 13 years. IU can offer better money, facilities and of course has a much stronger basketball tradition and program.
Why it won’t work: Collins simply hasn’t done enough to be considered for the job. Sure, he had one good season that led to the Wildcats making the big dance, but that alone shouldn’t be enough to get consideration for the IU job. His Duke assistant coaching experience is nice, but to run a program like IU, it’ll take more sustained success as a head coach.
MICK CRONIN, CINCINNATI
Career Record: 305-157 in 14 seasons (three at Murray State and 11 at Cincinnati)
2016 Salary per USA Today: $2.2 million
Why it makes sense: Cronin has consistently done more with less while at his alma mater. He was an assistant under Bob Huggins at UC and then an assistant under Rick Pitino at Louisville before taking the head coaching job at Murray State and then UC in 2006. He has made the NCAA Tournament nine times, including the last seven years, and reached the Sweet 16 in 2012. He considered leaving Cincinnati for the UNLV job after last season, but decided to stay. He would almost certainly leave for the Indiana job should it be offered to him.
Why it won’t work: Cronin hasn’t been the most successful in March. He has only made it out of the first round three times in his nine appearances, and only once made it to the Sweet 16. He also had health issues that caused him to miss a chunk of the 2015 season. Indiana might be too big of a stage for Cronin, despite his success at UC.
(02/24/17 12:08am)
Mock Draft 1.0
Draft Order:
Andrew Vailliencourt
Will DeWitt
1. Cleveland
Myles Garrett, DE – Texas A&M
Myles Garrett, DE, Texas A&M
2. San Francisco
DeShaun Watson, QB – Clemson
Jonathan Allen, DL, Alabama
3. Chicago
Mitch Trubinsky, QB – North Carolina
Jamal Adams , S, LSU
4. Jacksonville
Jonathan Allen, DT – Alabama
Malik Hooker, S, Ohio State
5. Tennessee
Jamal Adams, S – LSU
Solomon Thomas, DE, Stanford
6. New York Jets
Marshon Lattimore, CB – Ohio State
Marshon Lattimore, CB, Ohio State
7. Los Angeles Chargers
Malik Hooker, S – Ohio State
Ryan Ramczyk, T, Wisconsin
8. Carolina
Solomon Thomas, DE – Stanford
Leonard Fournette, RB, LSU
9. Cincinnati
Reuben Foster, LB – Alabama
Derek Barnett, DE, Tennessee
10. Buffalo
Mike Williams, WR – Clemson
Mitch Trubisky, QB, North Carolina
11. New Orleans
Derek Barnett, DE – Tennessee
Sidney Jones, CB, Washington
12. Cleveland
DeShone Kizer, QB – Notre Dame
Deshaun Watson, QB, Clemson
13. Arizona
Corey Davis, WR – Western Michigan
Deshone Kizer, QB, Notre Dame
14. Indianapolis
Zach Cunningham, LB – Vanderbilt
Marlon Humphrey, CB, Alabama
15. Philadelphia
Leonard Fournette, RB – LSU
Mike Williams, WR, Clemson
16. Baltimore
Taco Charlton, DE – Michigan
Dalvin Cook, RB, Florida State
17. Washington
Jabrill Peppers, LB/S – Michigan
Taco Charlton, DE, Michigan
18. Tennessee
Sidney Jones, CB – Washington
Corey Davis, WR, Western Michigan
19. Tampa Bay
Dalvin Cook, RB – Florida State
Christian McCaffrey, RB, Stanford
20. Denver
Ryan Ramcyzk, OT – Wisconsin
O.J. Howard, TE, Alabama
21. Detroit
Marlon Humphrey, CB – Alabama
Caleb Brantley, DT, Florida
22. Miami
Tim Williams, LB – Alabama
Charles Harris, DE/OLB, Missouri
23. New York Giants
O.J. Howard, TE – Alabama
David Njoku, TE, Miami
24. Oakland
Caleb Brantley, DT – Florida
Adoree’ Jackson, CB, USC
25. Houston
Cam Robinson, OT – Alabama
Garett Bolles, T, Utah
26. Seattle
Garrett Boles, OT – Utah
Dan Feeney, G, Indiana
27. Kansas City
T.J. Watt, LB – Wisconsin
Zach Cunningham, ILB, Vanderbilt
28. Dallas
DeMarcus Walker, DE – Florida State
Teez Tabor, CB, Florida
29. Green Bay
Quincy Wilson, CB – Florida
Quincy Wilson, CB, Florida
30. Pittsburgh
Takk McKinley, DE – UCLA
Tre’Davious White, CB, LSU
31. Atlanta
Malik McDowell, DT – Michigan State
Jabrill Peppers, S, Michigan
32. New England
Christian McCaffrey, RB – Stanford
Takkarist McKinley, DE, UCLA
(02/22/17 11:43pm)
David Surgarman and Mike McMahon talk about IUBB after its loss at Iowa.
https://soundcloud.com/david-sugarman-1/iu-iowa-postgame-podcast
(02/12/17 8:36pm)
David Sugarman, Mike McMahon, and Ben Wittenstein recap the IU-Michigan basketball game from Assembly Hall.
https://soundcloud.com/david-sugarman-1/podcast-michigan
(02/10/17 2:37am)
Andrew Vailliencourt, Ben Wittenstein, and Ben Ladner talk about IU's 69-64 loss to Purdue.
https://soundcloud.com/user-75749838/post-game-purdue
(01/24/17 3:44am)
Lauralys Shallow, Juliana Sherry, and Jordan Burrows recap IU women's basketball's win over Penn State.
https://soundcloud.com/lauralys-shallow/indiana-vs-penn-state-womens-basketball-podcast
(01/22/17 1:06am)
Bloomington, IN---The mighty Hoosiers prevail in win over Spartans.----By Jacob Vinson
In a game that could have meant turmoil to Indiana’s season, the Hoosiers, and Assembly Hall faithful started out strong and stayed there the whole game. After losing OG Anunoby for the rest of the season in the Hoosiers’ last game out, Blackmon led the way with 33 points to take down the visiting Spartans in a crucial win 82-75. Not only were the Hoosiers without Anunoby, but also Juwan Morgan who has been the best rebounder as of late.
Tonight, against the Spartans, the Hoosiers started off hot getting out to a 20-10 lead with 12:51 to go in the first half. Big Red increased their lead at the half to 14 with a big half from James Blackmon Jr. Indiana sprinted out to a 51-33 lead with 17:39 remaining in the game before Miles Bridges threw down a two-hand slam and started the march of the Spartans comeback. Within six minutes of game action the Spartans cut into the Hoosiers lead making it 59-49 with 11:53 to play. The Hoosiers tried to run away from Michigan State, but couldn’t quite keep the Spartans from nipping at their heels. With 4:32 to go in the contest, Devonte Green drove to the basket oozing confidence and banked in a floater to put the Hoosiers up by 6. With that bucket by Green, the Hoosiers would then fend off Michigan State until the end to reign victorious in a much-needed victory.
Tom Izzo was quoted saying after the game, “I was nice to him when I recruited him. Not sure why he did that to me,” on Blackmon putting up 33 against his squad. Izzo talked about how his guards let Indiana’s guards get past them too easily. When Crean took the mic, he talked about how his squad is getting better and that he was ready to use Grant Gelon if need be.
Next up Indiana will travel to Ann Arbor to take on the Wolverines of Michigan on Thursday January 26th at 9pm.
(01/19/17 6:26am)
"How A Matter of Seconds Altered the Future of Indiana Basketball"---By Evan Golodner
With 1:50 left in the first half at Penn State, OG Anunoby finished one of his signature vicious dunks. The assault on the rim was a play only he could do.
That is what OG represents to this IU team: he does things simply no one else can do. With the build of a linebacker, elite athleticism, a 7’6 wingspan, and the ability to guard just about every position, he is the most complete player on the Hoosiers. He doesn’t have the shooting of James Blackmon or the post up prowess of Thomas Bryant, but he does a little bit everything. Anunoby also happens to be a lock down defender, as his 7 steals against Rutgers last week suggests. He has taken on every assignment, from blocking Jamal Murray’s 3’s to taking on Nigel Hayes down low. His Kawhi Leonard-esque composed intensity is a calming presence when complementing the emotional roller coaster that is Thomas Bryant and the attention-seeking nature of big-time college athletes. Since OG is the only player on the team that can do what he does, he covers up a lot of holes on this Hoosier team.
A little over 100 seconds later, OG was laying on the ground as the 1st half buzzer sounded, clutching his knee. He had to be carried by the trainers into the locker room and did not return.
You could tell by the Indiana players’ faces this was serious. Those aren’t the faces you typically see when your team is headed into half time of a must-win road game with a 7-point lead.
Indiana responded well in the second half with tough play. Already missing Collin Hartman for the season and Juwan Morgan for the game, freshman De’Ron Davis went down with a leg injury. Veteran players Bryant, Blackmon, and Robert Johnson took over the rest of the game. Just as it seemed Indiana was about to blow another late lead, and suffer a devastating loss, they finally caught a break. With a tie game and only 5 seconds remaining Blackmon hit a 3 at the buzzer to preserve the hard-fought win. It was a great moment and a great half, but one can only wonder if it is sustainable from here on out.
Let’s face it: Tom Crean crying after the game is not a good sign regarding OG’s status (a non-contact knee injury is rarely good news). Even if Morgan and Davis are fine, losing OG for the season would be a devastating blow. An already poor defense simply cannot afford to lose him. Johnson is the only other above average defender in the rotation. This Indiana offense, still without a true point guard, cannot make up for atrocious defense like it has in years past. Juwan Morgan is not the shooter or perimeter defender that OG is, so IU would lose some versatility. If IU opts to play more small-ball, they lose size and rebounding (their biggest strength). Indiana doesn’t have the luxury of taking its time to figure out life without OG, since they decided to drop 3 of their first 4 big ten games and 5 of 8 overall. With 7 of the remaining 12 games on the road, Hoosier fans have to deal with the reality that this team may not even make the NCAA tournament.
Without OG, making it would require Bryant, Blackmon, and Johnson to be elite every night. The pressure is on them to carry this team on their backs and step up as mature leaders, something neither of them have ever been relied upon to do. Tom Crean also just got a load of pressure put on him.
In many ways, this was a pivotal season for Crean. Winning the Big Ten title and beating Kentucky last season were enough to get him off the hot seat. It was his second Big Ten title, and Indiana entered the season as a favorite to repeat. A repeat would be huge for the program. No dominant program has emerged in the Big Ten in the past 7 years. With Indiana’s storied history, the high-level recruits in the state of Indiana, a track record of recent NBA lottery picks, and the aura of Assembly Hall, IU has a chance to again become the elite program in the Big Ten. Now the Hoosiers find themselves at a crossroads where their season could fall apart. OG would still be a top 20 pick in the draft, as would Bryant. Blackmon would likely test NBA waters as well. With a lackluster recruiting class coming in, if those 3 players leave, next season could be tough sledding as well. If Indiana doesn’t make it to the tournament this season (now a real possibility) and don’t next year either, Tom Crean’s seat will be in flames. He still wouldn’t have the monkey off his back of advancing past the Sweet Sixteen, and missing the tournament would likely continue the trend of Indiana missing out on elite prospects in its own backyard.
If only OG could have survived 5 more seconds and walked into the locker room under his own power. Those 5 seconds could have just destroyed the momentum Indiana basketball has gained in the past couple years under the guidance of Crean, Yogi Ferrell, Troy Williams, Bryant, and Anunoby as well.
Hoosier fans everywhere should pray the doctors bring good news about OG’s knee. Until then, Indiana Basketball will be reentering the unknown.
(01/17/17 1:40am)
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The Tall Trio's Eddie Cotton and Sam Beishuizen, spoke with former IU QB Zander Diamont about everything from his time at IU to the time he took the trash out at Kilroys.
https://soundcloud.com/user-75749838/the-tall-trio-with-zander-diamont
(01/05/17 6:50pm)
David Sugarman caught up with former Indiana University point guard Yogi Ferrell. The two talked about the future of his career and the current status of Indiana Basketball.
(12/02/16 9:40pm)
https://soundcloud.com/joshua-margolis-619021716/friday-morning-lights-120216-what-the-heck-just-happened
IU Football beat writer Taylor Lehman starts off the show leading a discussion on Indiana Football, including why exactly Kevin Wilson resigned and the speculation surrounding it (00:30, the awkward press conference (02:25), reaction from current and former players (11:18), (18:40), what to expect from new head coach Tom Allen (21:25), and how IU's bowl prospects change in the aftermath (30:40). We end the show by breaking down IU's big win over UNC (40:00), the OG Anunoby injury (42:30), and the chaos of the GA line(48:00).
(11/27/16 9:17pm)
[audio m4a="https://wiux.indiana.edu/wiux.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Purdue-Podcast.m4a"][/audio]
Josh Eastern and Michael McMahon recap IU's major victory against Purdue.
(11/27/16 4:39pm)
Zander Diamont stood for more than the average football player. He was electrifying and hopeful. He defied logic and made you believe. Most importantly, he never strayed away from who he was.
Zander Diamont is and will always be my favorite college athlete of all-time.
My name is Eddie Cotton, and I’m a 5’5” Jewish kid from Long Island, New York. I’ve loved sports since the day I was born, but my affinity to sports will always be defined by my inability to play them. I tried soccer and failed because I was too slow. I tried basketball and failed for obvious reasons. I tried baseball and made a costly error to cost my 6th grade little league team the championship, so in turn, I failed.
I’ve tried almost every sport, even badminton, and have failed at every single one. There was only one sport that I never even got to try.
In 3rd grade, I didn’t understand the clear and obvious concept of being undersized. I couldn’t really grasp the fact that I wasn’t like other kids. With that said, I asked my dad if could play football. The response was abrupt and quick.
“No.”
My dad was smart. I’m tiny. If I ever stepped foot on a field, there would be a risk with every moment that I could be severely injured.
So, I never got to give football a try. I never got to live out my dream of replicating the play of New York Jets greats like Chad Pennington and Curtis Martin. But, at least I never failed either.
Zander Diamont could have easily had that same conversation with his father in 3rd grade. In fact, I bet he did. I bet 3rd grade Zander Diamont told his dad that “No,” was not an available answer. I say that because nothing defines Zander Diamont more than defying doubters.
I know that there is clearly a major difference between my stature and the stature of Mr. Diamont, but there is still no arguing the fact that Zander is undersized.
Zander Diamont, at the heart of it all, is an individual that probably shouldn’t be playing division one college football. His size and arm strength have been talking points throughout his career, but no matter how loud the doubters have gotten, his fiery passion for the game of football has always been there.
It is that passion which has allowed Zander to push through the doubt and be so successful in establishing a fan base that loves him.
Zander Diamont gave me hope.
Zander gave me a hope that no other athlete could provide, because quite simply, Zander Diamont is just a tiny Jewish kid that did things no one else thought he could.
Zander has had to deal with the adversity of losing his redshirt, losing his job, and learning a new role as a wildcat specialist. Through it all, he evidently never stopped believing in himself. That’s how he has always been. That’s how he was before he even got to campus.
“I think I can play with anybody,” Diamont said. “Cam Newton can walk in the room and I’m gonna be like ‘I can play with Cam Newton,’ regardless of whether or not I can. That’s just my mentality and I think that I take that in every aspect of my life.”
That’s how Zander explained his thought process in the face of a challenge, prior to arriving to campus in 2014.
It’s that belief which allowed Mr. Diamont to create moments.
Whether it be his consistent domination of Purdue, his masculine swagger while smoking a cigar, or his always existent ability to break a game changing touchdown, Zander Diamont created moments.
No moment bigger than when he broke a 79-yard touchdown carry against the reigning National Champions. With that carry, he sparked a belief in a fan base that was consistently non-existent for years on end. With that carry, Zander Diamont took the belief he had in himself, and spread it amongst the 53,000 fans in attendance at that game.
IU went on to lose that game, but their fans have not lost that belief.
When people look back at the career of Zander Diamont, they will see that play as a turning point in a program. However, when I tell my kids about Zander Diamont, I will tell them about much more than just that one moment.
When I tell my kids about Zander Diamont, I will look to the things that he taught me.
Zander taught me to follow my passion, no matter what anyone else says.
In life, there will be individuals that are critical of you. If you allow that to withhold you from following what you’re passionate about, you will be aimless.
Zander taught me to embrace my role.
You will not always be in the ideal situation. It is at the times in which you’re most uncomfortable that you will grow the most.
Zander taught me to always believe.
Without faith in your abilities, it becomes difficult too to succeed. No matter how challenging the circumstance, a proper belief can help you overcome a situation.
Zander taught me to always be myself.
Zander brought energy and swagger to the game. People rallied around him, because he was genuine. He showed people he cared and fans embraced him for it. He never held back who he was.
Zander taught me to have fun doing what you love.
With the routines of work, we sometimes forget the joys which an activity originally gave us. Zander never stopped having fun on the football field, and it showed.
Zander, you electrified a fan base and made an impact on me. You made football fun at Indiana University, and I will never forget what you meant to this team. Neither will my kids. Thank you Zander.
(11/17/16 2:39am)
https://soundcloud.com/user-75749838/postgame-podcast-iu-umass-lowell
Ben Wittenstein and Josh Eastern talk about IU's win over UMass Lowell.
(11/14/16 5:14am)
Bloomington, IN --- Making history and improving to 2-0 on the season was what the 23rd ranked Indiana Women’s Basketball team was all about on Sunday afternoon. Tyra Buss eclipsed the 1,000-point mark as the youngest player in Indiana University history and Alexis Gassion tied her career high in points with 22.
The 23rd ranked Hoosiers down the Vanderbilt Commodores by a score of 94-61 on Sunday afternoon. Four Hoosiers had double digits in Alexis Gassion, Amanda Cahill, Tyra Buss, and Amber Deane scoring 22, 17, 11, and 10 respectively. Buss had a history making day as she laid the ball in on a fast break to put her over the 1,000-point mark. Buss is the youngest player to reach that achievement, only 2 games into her junior year. Alexis Gassion made some history of her own as she tied her career high in points with 22. Not only did Buss and Gassion make some of their own history, but with the team beating Vanderbilt that is the first time the Hoosiers have taken down an SEC team in the regular season since 2006.
The Hoosiers and Commodores remained close throughout the first half at the 4:46 mark with the Hoosiers only leading by 4. The Hoosiers turned it on, however, to end the half as they went to the locker-room with a 12-point advantage. The Hoosiers started off the second half hot and never looked back. They went on a 12-0 run before letting the Commodores knock down a deep two, but in the end it wouldn’t be enough for Vandy. The Hoosiers took control of the game and ran away with it finishing Vanderbilt off at 94-61 when the final buzzer sounded.
Next up the Hoosiers will travel to Chattanooga to take on the Mocs on Thursday at 6:30 looking to improve to 3-0.
(11/06/16 10:38pm)
https://soundcloud.com/user-799864310
(09/25/16 2:59am)
It was the quintessential Indiana football game. Glimmers of greatness mixed with incredibly frustrating moments, ultimately ending in disappointment.
The first play from scrimmage was a beauty. Richard Lagow found Nick Westbrook just shy of midfield. Westbrook promptly torched the Wake Forest defense, finding the endzone and giving Indiana the lead just 13 seconds into the game.
https://twitter.com/BigTenNetwork/status/779768581793861633
The lead didn’t even hold through the first quarter. Wake Forest tied the score less than 12 minutes later, and the Hoosiers never led again.
“Too many errors,” Indiana head coach Kevin Wilson said after the game.
The Hoosiers had opportunities aplenty, but ended the non-conference slate with a brutal loss to an inferior opponent, falling 33-28 to Wake Forest just a year after defeating the Demon Deacons in Winston-Salem.
Indiana had 611 yards of offense. 496 of those were through the air, courtesy of Lagow. That’s a school record, for what it’s worth.
Ricky Jones found his groove, finishing the day with 208 yards receiving on eight receptions. Nick Westbrook added another 129 along with two scores.
Indiana could never find any momentum in the running game. With starting offensive linemen Dan Feeney (concussion) and Dimitric Camiel (back) unable to play, the ground attack suffered, accounting for just 115 yards on 32 attempts.
The Hoosiers left far too many points on the table. Wilson’s team couldn’t hold onto the football, turning it over five times. Wake Forest turned those miscues into 17 points. 24 if you include the turnover on downs in the second quarter.
All five turnovers were Lagow interceptions, although he in no way deserves blame for them all.
“[Lagow] had one bad throw,” Wilson said. “The rest of it was on us.”
The interceptions were far from the only issue for Indiana. Griffin Oakes had a 36-yard field goal attempt blocked late in the second quarter.
Indiana also committed nine penalties, giving the Demon Deacons 84 free yards. Wake Forest’s final scoring drive of the afternoon went 75 yards. Indiana’s defense committed four separate penalties on the drive totalling 45 yards.
Now Indiana finds themselves in a precarious position. With the Big Ten moving to a nine game conference schedule this season, the Hoosiers need to win at least four games against conference foes to become bowl eligible. The last time Indiana won four conference games was 2001, Antwaan Randle El’s final season as a Hoosier.
The road to four Big Ten victories starts next Saturday night against Michigan State at Memorial Stadium, followed by a trip to Columbus to take on the Buckeyes and a home date with Nebraska the week after.
The most likely chances at victories for Indiana come later. Indiana may need to go 3-0 in consecutive late season matchups at Northwestern, home versus Maryland and at Rutgers, to have a shot at the bowl going into the Old Oaken Bucket game.
The Hoosiers may have had a bit of breathing room before Saturday. Not anymore.