The Indiana Hoosiers have shown significant improvement in their defensive front in 2024, a season that has seen them become one of the tougher teams to run against in the Big Ten. This year, the Hoosiers have already held four opponents to fewer than 100 yards rushing, a notable achievement that stands as their best since 2019 when they kept five teams under that benchmark. The resurgence in Indiana’s run defense is a key storyline this season, as it has been pivotal to their competitiveness in a tough conference.
The performance in 2024 marks a critical turnaround from the struggles of recent years, where Indiana’s defense often found itself outmatched against powerful rushing attacks in the Big Ten. Defensive coordinator Matt Guerrieri has played a central role in orchestrating this transformation, focusing on fundamentals, gap discipline, and aggressive play along the line of scrimmage. The success so far has brought back memories of the 2019 season, where a similarly effective defensive unit was a cornerstone of Indiana’s success, ultimately helping them secure an 8-5 record and a trip to the Gator Bowl.
In the 2024 season, Indiana’s ability to stifle the run has been evident across multiple matchups. In each of the games where they have held their opponents under 100 rushing yards, the Hoosiers have controlled the line of scrimmage, forcing teams into uncomfortable passing situations. Their dominance up front has allowed Indiana to dictate the pace and keep games within reach, even against more talented or favored opponents.
One of the standout performances came against Rutgers, a team known for its ground-and-pound style. The Hoosiers limited Rutgers to just 87 rushing yards, showcasing an ability to adjust to the Scarlet Knights’ physical approach. This performance was built on a combination of strong tackling from Indiana’s linebackers and excellent penetration from the defensive line, which often disrupted Rutgers’ plays before they could gain momentum.
Another impressive game was against Michigan State, where Indiana’s defensive front held the Spartans to 92 rushing yards. This was especially crucial, as Michigan State’s offense typically relies on a balanced attack to control the clock and keep their defense off the field. Indiana’s defensive unit made key stops on early downs, forcing Michigan State into passing situations that played into the Hoosiers’ strengths in the secondary.
The Hoosiers’ most impressive performance, however, might have come against a high-powered offense in Maryland, where they held the Terrapins to just 78 rushing yards. Maryland’s speed and versatility typically pose a challenge for defenses, but Indiana showed discipline in their assignments and prevented the big plays that could have shifted the game. The Hoosiers were able to string together tackles and rally to the ball, effectively limiting any explosive runs and keeping Maryland’s playmakers in check.
The last time Indiana showed this level of dominance against the run was in 2019, a year that marked a high point in the program’s recent history. That season, the Hoosiers finished with a top-50 national ranking in rush defense and boasted a physical front seven that consistently pressured opponents. The 2019 defense, led by the likes of linebacker Micah McFadden and safety Marcelino Ball, made a habit of shutting down rushing lanes and controlling the middle of the field.
In 2024, the Hoosiers have mirrored some of the strengths from that 2019 squad, particularly in terms of discipline and physicality. Players like Aaron Casey and Andre Carter have emerged as leaders on the defense, bringing a tough mindset that has been crucial in close games. The experience and growth of these players have translated into a more confident and aggressive defensive approach.
One major difference between the two teams, however, is the depth that the 2024 Hoosiers have in the front seven. Unlike the 2019 squad, which relied heavily on a core group of starters, the current Hoosiers can rotate several players along the defensive line without seeing a significant drop in performance. This depth has allowed them to stay fresh deep into games and sustain their physicality against run-heavy teams.
Indiana’s improved run defense has not only helped in specific games but has also provided a foundation for their overall competitiveness in the Big Ten. By keeping opposing ground games in check, the Hoosiers have been able to control time of possession, limit big plays, and create more opportunities for their offense. This has been especially valuable in a season where Indiana has faced challenges with offensive consistency and injuries at key positions.
The ability to keep teams from running effectively also puts pressure on opponents’ passing games, allowing the Hoosiers to be more aggressive in their pass rush. With their front seven able to handle the run, Indiana’s secondary has benefited from being able to focus more on coverage rather than needing to provide consistent run support. This balance has given Indiana a fighting chance in nearly every game this season, making them a tougher out than many anticipated before the season began.
As the 2024 season progresses, Indiana will look to build on this defensive success. With some of their toughest matchups still ahead, including clashes with Ohio State and Michigan, maintaining their ability to stop the run will be critical to staying competitive. If the Hoosiers can replicate their early-season performances and continue to keep teams under 100 rushing yards, they could potentially match or surpass their 2019 feat of holding five opponents to under that mark.
The resurgence of Indiana’s run defense in 2024 is a testament to the efforts of the coaching staff and the determination of the players. It reflects a return to a style of play that the Hoosiers embraced in 2019, and it offers hope for a program looking to re-establish itself as a consistent competitor in the Big Ten. As they continue their campaign, Indiana fans can be encouraged by the sight of their defense setting the tone once again, making the Hoosiers a tough challenge for any team that hopes to run the ball against them.