We had a reader comment with the question of where we see the Hoosiers finish in the Big Ten this year. It's tough to tell, because - as does everything else with this season - the Hoosiers success revolves around how quickly they can gel and mature. Their recent wins (see previous posts) would suggest that they are starting to bring everything together as conference play begins, and my humble observations of this team lead me to believe the talent is most definitely there. Coach Jack told me back before the season that she thought the ninth-place finish predicted for the Hoosiers at Big Ten Media Day was fair, and that it was the job of her and her team to change such opinions. I could very easily see the Hoosiers finishing in the top half of the conference or better if their current play continues and improves. But again, only time will tell - consistency will be a catch-word for this team throughout Big Ten play. Obviously the first real test for the Hoosiers comes New Year's Eve, as they kick off conference play at Northwestern. The game I've had circled on my schedule, however, is the next one, when the Hoosiers welcome former coach Sharon Versyp and rival Purdue to Bloomington on Jan. 3. The Boilermakers were predicted to finish fifth in the Big Ten, and the first of two regular season installments of the annual rivalry should be a good proving ground for the Hoosiers. Purdue has been hit by the injury bug, but the Boilers are one of the top teams in the conference perennially, and to be among the best you have to prove yourself among the best. I'll be flying back in from the A-town early make it to this game, hope to see y'all there.
Interesting side note: The Hoosiers' return-trip to West Lafayette is only 11 days after the teams' first meeting, as IU will head north to Purdueland on Jan. 14.
