Rhett Lewis rolls out The Big Red Carpet to break down Indiana’s 27–14 season-opening win over Old Dominion. It wasn’t always pretty, but Week 1 is about finding rhythm, building confidence, and stacking wins. Here’s what worked, what didn’t, and why “a win is a win.”
Talking Points
- Defense control: Outside of two QB keepers, IU’s defense looked in command.
- Ground game punch: Roman Hemby and Kaelon Black set the tone behind a cohesive OL of Coogan, Lynch, Benson, Evans, and Smith.
- Red-zone miscues: Missed chances inside the 20 left points off the board – but fixable ones.
- QB growth curve: Week 1 reps matter more than flash. Comfort in the system is the real gain.
- Special teams spark: A punt return touchdown gave momentum and a tight end usage bump added balance.
- Big Ten whiparound: Who impressed, who stumbled in Week 1 across the conference.
- Week 2 preview: Keys to stopping Dexter Williams and Kennesaw State – force throws and win 3rd down.
Week 1
Week 1 showed flashes of what this Indiana team can be – physical in the trenches, opportunistic on defense, and capable of striking in special teams. With Kennesaw State and the return of Dexter Williams up next, the Hoosiers will need to tighten the red-zone execution and trust their defense to make life uncomfortable for the Owls’ quarterback. Another week, another chance to roll out the red carpet.
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