Chappell adapting to starting role with Lewis still nursing hurt ankle

Every day for the past week and a half, junior quarterback Kellen Lewis’ high-ankle sprain has listed him as questionable. Improvement in the injury has given the Hoosiers a case of optimism, but for now, they stick to the alternative: Ben Chappell.

The sophomore and Bloomington South product started against Illinois last week and has filled in occasionally for the oft-injured Lewis. For most teams, the loss of a dynamic player and leader like Lewis can be irreparable. But having Chappell at the reigns is not new to this team.

Chappell filled in for Lewis as the starting quarterback while the latter served a suspension which lasted from spring ball to fall camp. Since then, Chappell has had the opportunity to set aside the clipboard and step in to make a case for himself as an efficient quarterback.

“We think Ben’s very capable,” said offensive coordinator Matt Canada. “He played well, but it’s what we expect.”

Chappell has played in six of IU’s seven games and lost his only start. Having been thrust into the position – several times in the middle of the game – Chappell has struggled. He is only completing 48.2 percent of his passes, with one touchdown against two picks and is gaining 83.3 yards per game.

Against the Illini on Saturday, Chappell was sacked four times and was knocked down an additional seven. Perhaps it’s inexperience, but Chappell recognizes he needs to get rid of the ball faster.

“I have to get rid of the ball faster,” Chappell admitted. “There were some guys open on Saturday that I probably could have gotten the ball off quicker. But it’s one of those things where the whole offense has to do better.”

Though he might play a little green, Chappell does have some powerful tools in his favor. He has a strong right arm with the ability to throw the football down the field – something he has not shied away from.

And while he might not have Lewis’ playmaking ability or speed, Canada has given Chappell the go-ahead for several quarterback draws.

During the last two weeks, though, with Chappell at the offense’s helm, the Hoosiers have only been able to put up 13 points. The lack of scoring has to change this weekend when IU entertains Northwestern (6-1, 2-1), a team that can put up points quickly.

And he will have to do just that against an improved Wildcat defense.

“They’re so disciplined and so smart,” Chappell said. “Their safeties really hold the coverage really well and they’ve got some horses up front. They’re just a good defense.”