The biggest question mark for Indiana entering the 2021 season is the status of quarterback Michael Penix Jr. The star gunslinger suffered a season-ending ACL injury in the Hoosiers’ victory over Maryland on Nov. 28.

Since then, Penix has undergone surgery and has been rehabbing the injury, hoping to be back under center for Indiana’s season opener against Iowa at Kinnick Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 4. Right now, it sounds like Penix is moving along as planned, though there’s still a long road ahead.

Penix told reporters on Monday that he is “a little bit ahead of schedule,” according to Zach Osterman of the Indianapolis Star. However, the two-year starter will be extremely limited during the Hoosiers’ spring season, which is set to begin on March 9.

Penix also said he is not yet running.

Last season, Penix finished with 1,645 yards threw the air while completing 56.4% of his passes and throwing 14 touchdowns with only 4 interceptions. He also accounted for 2 rushing touchdowns and played in six games for Indiana during a 6-2 season.

He missed the final two games against Wisconsin and Ole Miss (Outback Bowl) because of the injury.