Penn State Football: Keys to the Game at Indiana
By Corey Hunter
Key #1 – Indiana’s Hybrid Defense
As mentioned at the outset, Indiana employs a unique 4-2-5 defensive scheme with freshman Marcelino Ball acting as the HUSKY or rover. This is a defensive scheme instituted by first year defensive coordinator Tom Allen.
There seemed like no better time to utilize a new defensive outlook after Indiana posted some of the most dreadful defensive statistics in 2015. Coupled with the fact that the 2016 Hoosier defense was extremely green, a new scheme seemed like something to try.
The young Hoosier defense responded. Indiana has improved from 2015 in scoring defense and pass defense, as well as total defense to name a few. Penn State will need to methodically choose how to attack this defense.
If Indiana sends Ball and/or others into the box to stop the Nittany Lions running game, look for McSorley to take advantage of single coverage on his wide outs to try and stretch the field with Godwin, Blacknall, and Thompkins. On the other hand, if Ball drops into coverage to give help with the Penn State passing game, look for the Lions to transition to their staunch running game. Indiana still allows 165 yards per game on the ground.
Either way, Penn State quarterback Trace McSorley will need to read the Indiana defense and take what the Hoosiers are willing to give.