Hoosiers tune up with easy early schedule

IU has been dominant to start its season. No one following the Hoosiers could possibly argue against that statement.

To open their season, the Cream and Crimson rolled over Western Kentucky and Murray State. IU has put together 926 yards of offense, scoring 76 points in its eight quarters of play in 2008 thus far – its two visitors’ combined for 431 yards and 16 points.

But the Hilltoppers and Racers are part of the reason the Hoosiers’ overall schedule this season was ranked as one of the easiest in the Football Bowl Subdivision, according to various publications.

Much of the debate is based on the Hoosiers having eight games in the confines of Memorial Stadium and a noticeably light non-conference schedule without an opponent from a power conference.

Once the Hoosiers reach conference play, the difficulty obviously rises. But for the second year in a row, IU won’t face perennial powerhouses Michigan or Ohio State.

IU coach Bill Lynch wasn’t in the mood to answer questions about his schedule after his team pounded Murray State 45-3 on Saturday night. The Racers are members of the Football Championship Subdivision.

“We’re 2-0,” he said. “I mean, I don’t know – I’m not going to apologize for our schedule.”

Quarterback Kellen Lewis admitted Murray State and Western Kentucky might not have been the most difficult opponents, but added the games were still valuable.

“At least, even if they’re not Big Ten caliber or Big Ten size, (the games are worthwhile) just making sure we got our guys going to where they are supposed to go,” he said. “Making sure the receiver is making the right read, I’m making the right read and we are making the right checks. So if you want to say those are tune-up games for Big Ten teams, it’s always good to look back on film to make sure your guys are going to the right place.”

Saturday’s game was all too easy for Lewis, who appeared to be working on his passing game as if it were practice and not forcing any rushes. The junior had one run for a loss of two yards and was 15-for-21 for 170 yards before being taken out midway through the third quarter.

Despite Lewis’ efficiency – and the fact that nine different receivers caught a pass against the Racers – it was the running game which was featured against the lesser Murray State. Five different running backs teamed together for 44 carries, with four backs scoring.

Leading the attack was senior Marcus Thigpen who was pulled after carrying the ball seven times for 100 yards and two scores.

Thigpen downplayed the ease with which the Hoosiers have won their last two games, saying the games might not have been as easy in years past.

“We have proven that we can win,” he said. “In the last few years, we would lose to a team like Murray State.”