iu-fiu.jpg

Ben Malcomson:

Indiana vs. Florida International

Preview

Welcome to the first chapter of the 2018 season for Indiana Hoosier football as they travel to the sunshine state to face off with Florida International.  Let’s take a Malcomson-style look into the game coming up later tonight.

Start Time

Starts tonight around 7 pm EDT/6 pm CDT.

Channel

CBS Sports Network.  For Direct TV subscribers like myself, that is channel 221.  Channel 158 for Dish Network subscribers.

Radio

IU Radio NETWORK; SIRIUS 135, XM 195, INTERNET 957

What I am Watching For

-          Slippery When Wet – It is going to be a warm one.  It is also calling for a 15% chance of rain. Not exactly a high percentage chance, but things can get dicey if it does.  I will be watching and hoping for it to stay clear until the game is wrapped up.

-         Team Chemistry – It is the first game of the season, on the road, against a solid football program. It could take some time for both sides to get things going.  I stress patience for Hoosier fans.  If IU can click early on from both sides of the ball, they can get out in front quick and stay out front.

-          Penix Sighting – I expect the true freshman quarterback Michael Penix to make several appearances tonight via second half action.

IU Difference Makers

-          Peyton Ramsey – He was chosen for all the right reasons when he earned the starting job.  He had the leaders of this team’s support and he was getting the ball to the play-makers in practice.  Now, let us see him do this for all the Hoosier faithful to see. If he can take care of the ball, communicate plays effectively, and think quick on his feet, IU will be tough to stop on the offensive end.

-          The Offensive Line – The offensive line will play a major role in determining how far this team goes not just in this game, but in the season itself.  The Hoosiers need to establish an effective running game and buy the QB enough time consistently to execute plays.

-          Jacob Robinson – In order for IU to make a statement on defense early, they will need the drive, leadership, and effectiveness of Jacob Robinson up front in the trenches.  One of my favorite players on the defensive side of the ball.  I will be watching for him to make some key plays in this one.

What I Will Be Doing

Hosting a family cookout kickoff this afternoon grilling hamburgers, brats, drinking beer, and sharing laughs.  In my opinion, the second best way to celebrate the start of the season without actually being there for the game.

Projected Outcome

The good guys win this one 24-13.  I am attributing the low-scoring to the first half as the defenses for both teams click early. A mixture of Peyton Ramsey and Michael Penix in the second half helps IU pick up the victory.  Cole Gest and Mike Majette do enough from the running game to keep FIU on their toes, but nothing overly earth-shattering.

Bold Prediction

IU's defense draws three turnovers. One from a forced fumble and two via the interception.