Representing: Indiana

The Hoosiers are coming to C-Bus, and The Crimson Quarry was nice enough to answer our weekly questions.

1. Right now, how do you feel about where the Hoosiers are as a team?

I really don't know.  Ever since the 2009 loss to Michigan, I and most IU fans had been anticipating this year's Michigan game and viewed it as an opportunity for a signature win.  It was an opportunity, but not a win.  Last year's team was mostly competitive but failed to finish games.  The 2009 Hoosiers haven't had much opportunity, other than the Michigan game, to prove anything, and won't for a while.  IU's three pre-conference games were easy wins.  The Ohio State game is a likely loss.  Arkansas State is a likely win.  I don't expect to have a read on this team until after they have played Illinois and Northwestern on October 23 and October 30.  

2. Ben Chappell is good, but who else do they build around?

Chappell is very good and experienced, and IU's receiving corps, led by Tandon Doss, Terrance Turner, and Damarlo Belcher, is among the best in the conference.  Darius Willis hasn't been the most consistent back, but he played well against Michigan.  
3. What has to happen for Ohio State to beat Indiana, and vice versa?
For IU to upset the #2 team in the nation on the road would require a number of things to happen.  IU would have to comfortably win the turnover battle despite having shown nothing on defense so far, and would have to continue to score points against the first legitimate defense that IU has faced this season. OSU simply has to take care of the ball and play conservatively.
4. Will Bill Lynch throw his gum at someone?

I hope so.  A gum throw would be indicative of a bad call in a close game, and it's been a long time since IU has been in a close game with the Buckeyes.  
5. How will Indiana finish the season? (W/L, Bowl Game?)

I think the most likely finish is 6-6 (2-6) and a minor bowl bid, but again, I still don't have a great read on this team.  I can picture anything from 4-8 to 8-4.  The games against Illinois, Northwestern, Purdue, and Penn State are the most important, in my mind.

For the rest of the 5, go here.