The US Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association released its preseason rankings today, naming IU number seven in the nation. The Hoosiers have closed the last three seasons ranked sixth nationally, so this area is nothing new to the team.
The rationale and guidelines for the rankings, as stated on the USTFCCCA website say the rankings "will be compiled by mathematical formulae based on national descending order lists and data taken from previous seasons. The purpose and methodology of the rankings is to create an index that showcases the teams that have the best potential of achieving the top spots in the national-team race."
Seniors Derek Drouin and Andy Bayer were the top scorers for IU in the rankings index. They were responsible for 47.51 of the team's 77.93 total points. Both seniors are expected to make runs at individual national championships in their respective events by seasons end.
Arkansas claimed the top spot by a mile in the men's poll, accumulating 219.90 points. That's over 100 more points than second-place Florida (119.52). Rounding out the field through IU is Texas, Texas A&M, Oregon and Arizona State.
IU Coach Ron Helmer said that since they finished sixth last year, it makes sense for the to be ranked around that this year. He also said that their goal is always to finish the season ranked better than they started the season.
The women's team was ranked 107th nationally and only had four girls score points to be considered in the formula. They rounded out last season at 85th in the nation.
The first step in improving on that number will be January 12th as the Hoosiers host in-state rival Purdue for a dual meet at the Harry Gladstein Fieldhouse.
