Indiana Hoosiers Down Key Defensive Starters for Howard Game

Hoosiers Suffer Defensive Setbacks

The Indiana Hoosiers are dealing with some notable lineup changes ahead of their upcoming game against Howard. The No. 5 Hoosiers will take the field without starting cornerbacks A.J. Harris and Jamari Sharpe. Both players are officially out for Saturday's matchup.

Harris, who is a transfer from Penn State, and Sharpe both picked up injuries during last week's season-opening victory against North Texas. Fortunately for Indiana, these defensive injuries are not considered long term, so both players should be back on the field before too long.

Adjustments in the Backfield

With Harris and Sharpe sidelined, other players will have to step up in the defensive secondary. Ryland Gandy is expected to see increased playing time for the Hoosiers on Saturday. Gandy appeared in all 16 games last season. Jaylen Bell is also set for an increased role after playing 55 snaps last week against North Texas.

The defense is not the only unit dealing with injury problems. Starting running back Khobie Martin suffered a broken forearm in the game against North Texas. He will be sidelined until midseason.

With Martin out of the lineup, Turbo Richard and Lee Beebe Jr. will handle the bulk of the action at running back on Saturday. Richard is a transfer from Boston College. Beebe missed most of last season with a knee injury but is now healthy and ready for a larger role.

What it means for the next game

Howard Bison at Indiana Hoosiers (College Football, Sat, 12 Sep): Indiana Hoosiers win 100%, Howard Bison win 0%; projected score Indiana Hoosiers 62, Howard Bison 5. Our safest pick: Indiana -47.5.

Western Kentucky Hilltoppers at Indiana Hoosiers (College Football, Sat, 19 Sep): Indiana Hoosiers win 92%, Western Kentucky Hilltoppers win 8%; projected score Indiana Hoosiers 39, Western Kentucky Hilltoppers 17. Our safest pick: Over 45.5 points.