Back to 1-0

Bucky faces a tough test on homecoming tomorrow when Hardy and the Hoosiers come the Camp Randall. His size is comparable to Calvin Johnson, and Ike will need help from our safeties to keep him out of the endzone multiple times (11 TD's in 7 games). Lewis is a solid QB, but I am a firm believer in shutting down the running game first and never getting beat over the top when an opponent goes back to pass. Hardy will have his catches, but make him get the ball underneath and gang tackle him to avoid the big play. Most of all, keep Langford far away, for he doesn't stand a chance with the cushion he provides. Pressure from the DL, Levy, and Henry would help prevent the deep ball.

I don't expect a 52-17 verdict like last year, but I also can't see the 2001 debacle when Randal El (Antwan, not Marcus) ruled Madison and Bucky was routed in one of the few Alvarez seasons that didn't end in a bowl. IU will put points on the board, but PJ Hill and company should have an answer and then some, particularly late in the game. Lance Smith may again be the difference as Bucky drives for the clinching score. UW in a barnburner, 34-31.

I like Bucky's chances heading into Columbus 7-2, and expect that OSU may be reeling after their Saturday night showdown in Happy Valley. Am I the only one who smells upset here? After that, Michigan heads the Madison, and if the Badgers are 8-2, all bets are off. Bucky could conceivably decide the BT championship in these consecutive games even though they will be shut out of Pasadena for yet another year. Then, we'll travel the Axe to the Humpty Dump and bring it home safe and sound, with a 10-2 record and a likely date in Tampa on New Year's Day.

First things first, though. Let's send those Hoosier Daddies back to the state God created as an afterthought (sorry, Sherby). 1-0.