Curt Cignetti Shares Josh Hoover’s Status Ahead of Indiana’s Minnesota Showdown

Cignetti expects improvement

Indiana hosts Minnesota at Memorial Stadium on Saturday. Cignetti’s update offers hope that Hoover’s injury will not remain a concern as the Hoosiers move toward the end of the regular season.

A difficult game at Michigan

Hoover entered the matchup with 18 touchdown passes and no interceptions this season. Against Michigan, the TCU transfer completed 8 of 18 attempts for 81 yards and threw his first interception in an Indiana uniform.

He attempted only two passes after halftime as Indiana relied on its running game and defense. The defense helped secure the 13-6 overtime victory despite the offense’s struggles.

Backup option considered

After the game, Cignetti said the coaching staff discussed using backup Grant Wilson in the second half because Hoover was not fully healthy. Wilson had practiced well, Cignetti said, and was “big, strong and can run.” Cignetti ultimately kept Hoover in the game. In overtime, Hoover connected with tight end Brock Schott, then scored the game’s only touchdown on a five-yard keeper. “We’ve got to finish it out with him, and he responded,” Cignetti said, explaining the decision to stay with his starting quarterback.

Passing game remains important

Through eight games, Hoover has thrown for 1,741 yards and 18 touchdowns against one interception. His ability to connect with Charlie Becker and Nick Marsh on explosive plays has contributed to Indiana’s offensive success.

That threat was largely absent against Michigan. Indiana’s defense overcame the shortfall, but the article notes that relying on the same formula consistently is not sustainable. A healthier Hoover could help restore the passing attack against Minnesota.