Indiana Survives Huskies’ Challenge, Remains Unbeaten

© Rich Janzaruk/Herald-Times/USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Indiana defeated the Washington Huskies 31-17 at Memorial Stadium Oct. 26 in Bloomington, Ind, in what was the Hoosiers' toughest challenge of the season. Despite starting backup quarterback Tayven Jackson, Indiana's defense, led by standout performances from sophomore DB D’Angelo Ponds, proved to be the difference maker, helping the Hoosiers continue their undefeated streak.

Game Summary

Indiana tackled their toughest challenge yet and emerged victorious, even with the backup Jackson leading the offense. Coach Cignetti had his team ready to compete, and their resilience showed. Ponds set the tone defensively with two first-half interceptions off Huskies’ senior QB Will Rogers, one returned for a touchdown. The Huskies pushed back with two rushing scores, but Indiana’s run game controlled the clock. Senior RB Justice Ellison carried the load with 29 of Indiana’s 52 carries, finishing with 123 yards and a touchdown. Physicality and halftime adjustments secured the Hoosiers’ hard-fought win.

Turning Point for Indiana

The turning point came when Ponds snagged his first interception and took it back for a pick-six. While the Huskies didn’t lose all their fight, this game-changing play proved a blow to their momentum, which they never fully recovered.

Until then, the Huskies’ defense had held the Hoosiers scoreless in the first quarter, a first for Indiana this season. Ponds' touchdown opened the floodgates for the Hoosiers, who, after halftime, leaned heavily on their run game to secure the win. Yet, Ponds' interception sparked Indiana’s momentum and set the tone for the rest of the game.

What it Means

The Hoosiers continue to build momentum as they look ahead to next week’s matchup against Michigan State on the road, followed by a crucial home game against Michigan. If they can maintain their form, they could enter their showdown against Ohio State undefeated, further solidifying their dream season. Washington, meanwhile, faces a challenging road ahead. They will need to regroup quickly before taking on USC next week, and then they will travel to Happy Valley to face Penn State, where their outlook appears grim against a formidable opponent.