Indiana might have a quarterback problem. That didn’t stop the Hoosiers from pulling out another victory, albeit in spectacular fashion.
Head coach Curt Cignetti benched Josh Hoover in favor of Grant Wilson at halftime of the Hoosiers’ game against Minnesota on Saturday, although the defending champions ultimately prevailed in overtime, 23-16, after a wild 60-yard field goal sequence forced some more football.
Here’s what Hoover’s stats looked like at the time of his benching:
And here are the rest of the key stats from Saturday’s game:
Hoover took a big hit late in the first half after throwing an interception, which resulted in a penalty against Minnesota:
This was a difficult time for Hoover. Two weeks ago, he finished 20 of 40 for 296 yards and a touchdown in a 19-15 loss to Ohio State. Last week, he was just 8 of 18 for 81 yards and an interception in a 13-6 overtime win over Michigan.
He carried a probable designation throughout the week.
As for the rest of the match, it was mostly a defensive affair until a wild ending.
Nick Marsh scored the first touchdown of the game in the first quarter:
But Minnesota took the lead in the second quarter with a slight flicker:
The Golden Gophers also had an impact on the game on special teams, blocking a field goal in the second quarter. It was a rough day for Indiana overall – the Hoosiers also missed the snap on what would have been a tying attempt in the fourth quarter:
Minnesota kicker Luke Drzewiecki, meanwhile, had a field day, going 3-for-3 on field goals, including a 60-yarder that ultimately served as the game-winner. And yet… tasked with hitting a 60-yard field goal of his own to keep Indiana alive, Paddy McAteer responded as time expired to force overtime.
Charlie Becker then showed up in overtime in a big way, scoring a touchdown on the first play.
Indiana’s defense stopped the Gophers on their possession and the upset bid was averted.
For Minnesota (5-3), it was a heartbreaking result after an incredibly valiant effort on the road. For Indiana (8-1), it was a true test of resilience, although questions about Hoover’s starting status will linger well into the future.
Gn sports
