Indiana Hoosiers: Four Reasons Why Football Will Surprise in 2009

After a seven win season and their first bowl game in 13 years in 2007, the Indiana Hoosiers football team took a drastic turn for the worse in 2008 with only three victories.  Head Coach Bill Lynch and new Athletic Director Fred  Glass continuously reassure Hoosier Nation that this year's team will surprise, and the feeling is contagious.

1. Change of Face

With no dispute, the players openly admit that the attitude on the field, in the locker room, and during practice was horrendous. A lack of leadership and strong hearts on the team was evident last year, as IU was in contention for most of their games in 2008 until the half, when they would fall hard.

This year, defensive end Jamie Kirlew promised a new turn through the Indiana Daily Student. He said that, despite the rash of injuries, the lack of leadership that led to terrible execution was the reason for going 3-9. As a senior, Kirlew said he will not tolerate the lack of fundamentals, adding the coaching staff is working to make changes on both sides of the ball. 

2. Old Faces, New Places

In 2007, quarterback Kellen Lewis had IU fans thinking of a Heisman-type season coming. He was a pure dual threat, with the ability to sling the ball deep and run better than most Big Ten running backs.

His 2008 campaign was, for lack of a better word, a bust. He developed a nagging ankle injury that forced him out for most of the year.

For 2009, Lewis will probably be in a whole new position. During spring practices, Lewis has been seen lining up as a wide receiver. It is a move that does not surprise many, because Lewis' predecessor at quarterback was Antwaan Randle El, who is now a wide receiver with the Washington Redskins.

Ben Chappel, who filled in for Lewis last year, is taking the majority of the snaps in the QB position this spring. 

Ray Fisher, a wide receiver and punt returner for IU last year, is switching to cornerback for this season. All reports say Fisher looks natural in that position and could take the team's No. 1 spot. 

3. All the Young Dudes

Unless history repeats itself, most if not all of the Hoosiers' current freshman class will have a chance to watch and learn. Last year's class, however, has some promising talent that will undoubtedly make its way to the field this year.

Wide receiver Tandon Doss showed soft hands and great vertical speed last year. His numbers and opportunities were minimal, thanks to a rash of offensive injuries that led to poor output.

If the offensive line can stay healthy, look for Doss to haul in a majority of Chappel's passes. The two developed quite an on-field relationship last year.

Redshirt freshman running back Darius Willis was IU's top recruit last offseason and has been seen being used quite often in spring practice. Scouts say Willis is an all-around running back, something the Hoosiers desperately need.

Marcus Thigpen was a major disappointment despite his great speed, and IU hopes Willis represents a new fold of their currently pass-heavy offense. 

4. Getting Their Butts in the Seats

New Athletic Director Fred Glass has been working tirelessly on one major area of concern at IU: fan attendance. With the basketball team, Glass and coach Tom Crean devised a plan for $5.00 balcony seats for every game, which boomed attendance despite the poor play on the court. 

Glass is hoping to implement some of those things for the football team. Student season tickets have dropped to $40, a $30 decrease from last year. Glass says he also wants to create new traditions this year. 

It is unknown exactly what he will do or how well it will work, but his track record with the basketball team is promising. There is no argument that home field advantage is huge in football, and a young team like the Hoosiers needs it more than anybody.