Tom Allen is trying to restore the success Indiana had across the 2019-20 seasons after a few rough patches. Unfortunately, the Hoosiers are left waiting — and hoping — Dexter Williams II is able to make a solid recovery from a season-ending knee injury.

Williams was a bright spot for Indiana during the 2022 season, proving there was a case to be made for a dual-threat quarterback leading the offense. While he rests and recovers, Indiana will take a closer look at 3 players this spring.

Those players are Brendan Sorsby, Tayven Jackson and Broc Lowry. Sorsby saw very brief action last season while Lowry is getting his first taste of college football as a 3-star member of the 2023 recruiting class.

“All three can run and throw,” Allen said recently while breaking down the trio of QBs. “They all have strong leadership skills.”

At this point, Allen likes the ability of all three to be able to tuck it and run.

“The ability for all three to be able to run is a strength,” Allen said. “Sometimes it’s hard to tell because so much is going on, but when you see them isolate and make the throws, it’s impressive.”

Williams is also in “coach mode” per Allen which was to be expected given the nature of the QB’s injury. While it’s still a long road ahead, Allen did say Williams remains on schedule in his recovery.

“He’s not cleared to do anything on the field. It was such a late injury and the severity of it,” explained Allen. “His rehab is what we expected. He’s where he’s supposed to be. He’s doing everything he can be doing right now, which is awesome. There’s a long road for him, but he’s on schedule.”

Who is QB1 for 2023?

At this point in time, it’s hard to project Indiana’s depth chart for the season opener. Nevertheless, Williams would seem to get the first shot at the job if his recovery continues as expected.

Williams ran for 86 yards and threw for 31 in a win over Michigan State last season and shined against Ohio State despite a big loss. He was eventually injured in the season finale against Purdue after earning the starting role.