After Overtime Win, Takeaways From Curt Cignetti’s Weekly Press Conference as Minnesota Visits Bloomington

Hoover and offense need improvement

Indiana’s offense struggled in its 13-6 overtime win at Michigan. Josh Hoover completed 8 of 18 passes for 81 yards and threw his first interception of the season while playing through a throwing-arm injury sustained against Ohio State.

Cignetti said Monday he expected Hoover to be fine and better this week. He also acknowledged Indiana’s receivers struggled to get separation and said the passing game had not been sharp in practice before the Michigan game.

The Hoosiers have scored only one offensive touchdown in each of their past two games. Cignetti expects the passing game to improve as Minnesota comes to Bloomington on Saturday.

Osunsanmi anchors defensive front

Kansas State transfer Tobi Osunsanmi has produced 9.5 sacks and 13.5 tackles for loss in eight games. Cignetti praised his play and leadership, and credited defensive coordinator Bryant Haines and his staff with developing his technique and using his explosiveness.

Osunsanmi’s impact has helped Indiana’s defense stand out while the offense has struggled. Cignetti described him as playing tremendous football and said he has a strong voice as a leader.

Secondary gains key contributors

Cornerback A.J. Harris’s return has helped Indiana’s secondary. Jamari Sharpe has moved back to his natural field-cornerback position, a change Cignetti said has coincided with improvement in the unit.

Safety Amare Ferrell has intercepted three passes over Indiana’s last two games. Cignetti praised Ferrell’s instincts and ball skills, saying the takeaways have been valuable as the secondary complements a strong defensive front.

Minnesota brings another test

Minnesota allows 165.1 passing yards per game, among the nation’s better marks. Cignetti praised the Golden Gophers’ discipline and their use of different coverages and pressure packages. Cignetti said Minnesota would not beat itself and would make Indiana earn its opportunities. The Gophers have beaten three teams that were ranked when they met, including Iowa last weekend, making Saturday’s matchup a challenge for an Indiana offense coming off struggles against Ohio State and Michigan.