What Indiana's Tom Allen said during his weekly press conference
After going toe to toe with Ohio State and coming up just short a week ago, Tom Allen’s Indiana squad righted the ship against Maryland with a 27-11 win.
Despite getting back in the win column, the Hoosiers were dealt a big loss with the injury to quarterback Michael Penix Jr. Allen addressed that and more at his regularly scheduled Monday press conference.
Looking back at last week’s win, Allen appears pleased with how his team played.
Allen says hes proud of team winning against Maryland. Notes safety by DK Bonhomme was huge #iufb
— PaulGable (@PaulEGable) November 30, 2020
One of the breakout stars of Saturday’s game was Stevie Scott as he ran for three touchdowns and 80 yards. He garnered Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week for his effort.
Allen notes Stevie Scott offensive player of the week for Big Ten. Says Tim Baldwin and Scott were offensive players of the week for team. #iufb
— PaulGable (@PaulEGable) November 30, 2020
The elephant in the room was most certainly what happened with Penix this past Saturday. He will now miss the rest of the season with a torn ACL.
Penix torn acl. Allen confirms. "Just tough. I really feel for him. Bottom line is setbacks and adversity is part of life. How you respond defines who you are.' #iufb
— PaulGable (@PaulEGable) November 30, 2020
Allen says it is same leg Penix tore ACL as a freshman.
"For him, he and I have spent time together. It's about love and support. It's a challenge. Didnt know result saturday. Attacks core of who you are." #iufb— PaulGable (@PaulEGable) November 30, 2020
Allen says Indiana is a football team.
"Our heart is with michael but as he understands he will continue to help this football team be great." #iufb— PaulGable (@PaulEGable) November 30, 2020
The player with the task of replacing Penix is Jack Tuttle. The San Marcos, California, native transferred to Indiana after spending 2018 as part of the Utah program. He played in five games in 2019.
Allen says he is excited about opportunity for team and Jack Tuttle.
"Jack has prepared really hard. We will support michael every way possible." #iufb— PaulGable (@PaulEGable) November 30, 2020
Allen says consistency has helped Tuttle.
"Noticed last spring and was really impressed with how he developed in fall camp. This is why he came here. He needs to understand he has great talent around him. I'm excited for him." #iufb— PaulGable (@PaulEGable) November 30, 2020
Allen says having confidence in Tuttle helps teams psyche.
"Jack and I talked. This is why he came here. For me, when I see jack in practice his arm talent pops. Can make throws." #iufb— PaulGable (@PaulEGable) November 30, 2020
Tuttle’s upcoming start will be against a tough Wisconsin squad. The Badgers lost their first game two weeks ago against Northwestern and had to sit and think about that loss last weekend as their game against Minnesota was canceled.
Allen says Indiana has guys banged up. Notes Paul Chryst has done a great job at Wisconsin.
"Really impressive. Impressive team they brought in 2017 to Bloomington. We have to have a great week of practice." #iufb— PaulGable (@PaulEGable) November 30, 2020
Allen also went on to discuss his team’s current injury situation and how the group on the field will have to step up to make a victory possible.
Allen says its discouraging but you bow up and fight.
"That's why grit is such a great word. Will take tremendous grit to fight through this.'#iufb— PaulGable (@PaulEGable) November 30, 2020
Allen says every position group has to elevate one percent. Says he told defense one more takeaway, one more big stop. #iufb
— PaulGable (@PaulEGable) November 30, 2020
Allen says one focus this week and that is beat wisconsin.
"Earmuffs and blinders. It's crazy. Every program in potential jeopardy of having things happen. Take nothing for granted." #iufb— PaulGable (@PaulEGable) November 30, 2020
Allen says guys have stepped up as players go down. #iufb
— PaulGable (@PaulEGable) November 30, 2020
Depsite keeping focus completely on Wisconsin, Allen did acknowledge the Hoosier men’s basketball team and its upcoming appearance in the Maui Invitational.
Tom Allen with media opens wishing #iubb luck in Maui Invitational #iufb
— PaulGable (@PaulEGable) November 30, 2020