Indiana Should Give Grant Wilson the Starting Job
On November 3, an argument for Indiana to make Grant Wilson its starting quarterback after the bye week points to his comeback win over Minnesota and Josh Hoover’s struggles in Big Ten play.
Indiana’s bye week presents a chance to rethink its quarterback choice, with Grant Wilson making a case for the starting role after leading the Hoosiers past Minnesota in relief of an injured and ineffective Josh Hoover. Wilson produced key downfield completions, including a late regulation throw and the overtime winner to Charlie Becker.
Hoover, meanwhile, missed on all three attempts he threw at least 20 yards downfield against Minnesota. Across six Big Ten games, he went 9-for-29 on such throws for 274 yards and one touchdown. His deep throws toward the middle of the field were particularly unproductive, with only one completion on nine attempts.
The case for a change is that Indiana’s defense ranks among the top three nationally in scoring and yards allowed per play, while its offense has capable runners and high-level receivers. Wilson, a seventh-year quarterback in his second season in the system, could also give upcoming opponents a less familiar look. Indiana faces USC in Week 11.
The recommendation is to use the bye to prepare Wilson as QB1, rather than treat the decision as permanent. If he struggles, Indiana could return to Hoover, who may benefit from time to recover. But Wilson’s performance against Minnesota offers a reason to test the alternative as the Hoosiers pursue a national title.