Indiana head coach Curt Cignetti has voiced his support for quarterback Josh Hoover, defending him against criticism following the Hoosiers' undefeated start to the season. Cignetti stated at a recent news conference that the scrutiny on Hoover has been "unfair."
Hoover has delivered efficient performances through Indiana's first three games, completing over 72% of his passes for 10 touchdowns and no interceptions. His passing efficiency rating ranks second in the Football Bowl Subdivision. In his debut game against North Texas, Hoover threw four touchdown passes with only three incompletions, in a 52-16 victory. A notable image from that game showed Hoover with a bloodied face after an opponent's facemask pull.
Despite Hoover's strong statistics, Cignetti addressed concerns about his play. "After watching the game tape, he missed one throw," Cignetti said. "The one he missed to (Charlie) Becker, we did a bad job picking up the blitz at running back and he had a guy in his face."
Hoover himself has expressed a desire to improve, acknowledging areas to "clean up" after a 38-0 win against Western Kentucky where he finished 18 of 24 for 273 yards with two touchdowns and no turnovers. "The goal is always to reach that and sometimes we fall short, so that’s the thing that keeps you driving forward," Hoover said.
The Hoosiers have won their first three games by a combined score of 145-16, with Hoover leaving each contest early. The team's defense has recorded consecutive shutouts for the first time since 1993 and has not allowed a point in nine straight quarters.
Cignetti acknowledged that the team's early schedule has faced criticism for not being the strongest, but emphasized its value. "Those exhibition seasons have been real valuable for us. We needed these games to learn about ourselves, our guys, where we are, and what we have to do to be the best we can be," he said.
Hoover, a transfer from TCU, has been instrumental in integrating new and returning players onto the team. Charlie Becker, a receiver from the previous season's championship team, leads the Hoosiers with 12 catches for 272 yards and six touchdowns. Other key offensive players include transfers Turbo Richard at running back and Lee Beebe Jr., who has been limited to three games due to injury. Running back Khobie Martin is also awaiting return from an arm injury.
Receiver Nick Marsh has also shown potential, with seven catches for 81 yards in his most recent game. Cignetti concluded by reiterating his confidence in Hoover, stating, "I’m glad he’s our quarterback."