Here are three things that we learned from IU's 35-20 win over Akron:
1. Tyler Replogle needs to be healthy... With Tyler Replogle on the shelf due to a concussion, we got to see how this defense operates without its senior captain.
It wasn't pretty.
The IU defense let up 160 rushing yards to an Akron offense that has struggled running the football. The tackling was sub-par, allowing Akron to break off big chunks of yards. Not having a sure-tackler like Replogle hurt this defense on several occasions. If Replogle is to miss any length of time in the future, they will have to play better if they want to stay on the same field as a Big Ten offense.
2. "Touchdown Ted" Bolser will be the difference maker in the red zone offense... Bolser recorded two touchdowns in the first quarter on plays where he showed off his agility and speed. Bolser tied Bob Stephenson for the IU record for touchdowns in a season by a tight end with four. At this rate, it is looking like a double-digit touchdown season could be in the cards for the redshirt freshman. Chappell seems to love throwing to Bolser and, at 6-6, he automatically prevents a difficult matchup for any secondary. Tandon Doss and Damarlo Belcher get a lot of the headlines, but Bolser is becoming a lethal threat for an underrated Ben Chappell.
3. Ben Chappell is on his way to some gaudy numbers...Another stellar day for the hometown hero. Chappell passed for 342 yards and four touchdowns. All four of those touchdowns came in the first half. Chappell is now averaging 297 yards and three touchdowns per game. Yes these numbers have come against lower competition, but if you have watched IU football, it is clear that Chappell is on his way to one stellar season. If any Big Ten defense overlooks the play of Chappell, they are in for a rude awakening. It does not seem to matter what coverage, what defensive alignment or what personnel is on the field. If the Hoosiers are to go bowling this year, it will be on the shoulders of No. 4.
