Indiana at Florida International – Preview and Prediction
INDIANA 9 FIU (61)
Implied Projected Score: Indiana 35 FIU 26
MEGALOCKS LINE – Indiana 6
The Game
FIU opens up the season in The Cage with a game vs Big 10 upstart Indiana. Last season these teams played in Indiana and the Panthers were right in that game until well into the 2nd half. The Hoosiers ended up winning by a score of 36-22.
The Match-Up
Indiana offense vs FIU defense
It looks like Indiana is gonna do what Indiana does. Score points. They have a top-notch OL, a 1,000 yard RB (Devine Redding) and a loaded receiving unit. The big news is at QB where the school’s all-time leading passer Nate Sudfeld departs. MEGALOCKS INDIANA CAMP INSIDERS have advised us that Richard Lagow (6-6 240), he of the “laser rocket arm”, has gotten the majority of the snaps with the first team offense.
Overall, Indiana should have a fine day against the FIU defense that is coming off a disappointing year and only return five starters. There is very little depth at CB and that is probably going to be a problem going up against the Hoosier receivers. We also have a significant worry about the Panther pass rush being an absolute non-factor.
FIU offense vs Indiana defense
FIU is going to get things done as well. We think highly of QB Alex McGough and essentially the entire offense is back from last season. RB Alex Gardner does the job rushing and receiving, the receiving corps is solid and they get back stud TE Jonnu Smith (700 yards, 8 TD in 2014). It’s going to be a balanced attack and Indiana is going to have their hands full.
Indiana has given up well over 30 points per game for six consecutive seasons and hope that new DC Tom Allen (USF DC in 2015) can get them to improve. The Hoosiers will go with a new 4-2-5 scheme on defense and the good news is that the strength of their defense lies in the secondary where they have a ton of returning experience including excellent CB Rashard Fant. The DL looks to be a problem area with zero returning starters and a lack of proven talent.
Tasty Tidbits
Indiana is 21-8 to the under in their last 29 road games…..The Hoosiers were 2-0 ATS as road favorites last season…..small sample but playing on the road in The Cage should be manageable based on the road venues they usually compete in….The Hoosiers last bowl win was in the 1991 Copper Bowl (ESPN Instant Non-Classic) and the year before that….a young MEGALOCKS was attending the Indiana vs Auburn Peach Bowl…..Auburn 27 Indiana 23…..Amazing factoid to impress your friends….the FIU offense played very well at home last season scoring 39,52,41,48 in four of five games…..just saying.
Summary
Both offenses look like they will be able to move the ball. The wildcards are the new Hoosier QB (he may be a loose cannon, he may be awesome) and the FIU game plan. If the Panthers play it smart they play ball-control and limit the Hoosiers’ possessions. That is the theory.
We see some perceived value in taking the points with FIU but just cannot trust that defense. They could play a very good game and still lose by double digits.
Conclusion
No official play. Yet.
Lean: The over doesn’t look like a horrible play. We are gonna think about it. Slight leanage to Panthers +8 or better.