Indiana Faces Maryland as Playoff Hopes Hang in Balance

COLLEGE PARK, Maryland — Indiana football aims to improve to 9-0 as it faces Maryland on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. at SECU Stadium. The Hoosiers are looking for a Big Ten Championship Game berth and a chance at another College Football Playoff appearance.

However, Indiana’s head coach Curt Cignetti faces a few injury concerns ahead of the game. Senior linebacker Aiden Fisher suffered a knee injury while playing against UCLA on October 25. Although he returned briefly to the game, Cignetti has listed him as “questionable” for Saturday’s matchup.

In Fisher’s absence, redshirt junior linebacker Isaiah Jones will take over communication duties. Additionally, kicker Brendan Franke is also considered “questionable” after sustaining an undisclosed injury during the UCLA game.

Cignetti also has high expectations for defensive lineman Mikail Kamara, who expressed a goal of reaching 20 sacks this season. However, Kamara has only recorded one sack so far this season. “I think production numbers speak for themselves,” Cignetti said. “I think he’s got another level he can play at, and I’m waiting to see it.” The team’s defense has a combined total of 29 sacks this season.

This game holds special significance for redshirt senior running back Roman Hemby. Hemby transferred to Indiana from Maryland, where he spent four seasons before moving to Bloomington last December. Hemby has gained 513 rushing yards and scored four touchdowns in eight games with Indiana.

Maryland head coach Mike Locksley noted the experience both Hemby and fellow transfer Kellan Wyatt bring to the squad. “Both those guys are redshirt seniors that have had a lot of football in front of them,” Locksley said. Hemby shared that Indiana provided him a chance at a fresh start, expressing gratitude for being part of a new environment.

As Indiana prepares for the Maryland game, Cignetti emphasizes the importance of staying focused. Given that they have a chance to continue their unbeaten streak, the team is reminded to remain humble and focused on the present. “Whatever we did last year is last year,” said Kaelon Black, a sixth-year senior running back. “This year we’re just trying to take it up another notch.”