Hoosiers’ Star Quarterback Sidelined with Injury
Indiana’s Kurtis Rourke, a top contender for the Heisman Trophy, suffered an injury to his throwing hand during the team’s 56-7 win over Nebraska on Saturday. The sixth-year senior quarterback exited the game in the second half and did not return.
Rourke’s Stellar Performance Cut Short
Before his injury, Rourke threw for 189 yards on 17-of-21 passing with one touchdown and one interception, leading the Hoosiers to a 28-7 halftime lead. His performance was a testament to his skills, which have earned him the top spot in passer rating (192.11) and third in QBR (91.9) nationally.
Precautionary Measures Taken
Indiana coach Curt Cignetti called Rourke’s absence in the second half a precautionary move, citing the quarterback’s injured right thumb. “He hit his thumb on, I believe, a helmet and his nail kind of came off,” Cignetti explained. “We’ll know more tomorrow, but optimistic.”
Backup Quarterback Steps Up
Tayven Jackson, who started five games for Indiana in 2023, replaced Rourke in the second half and threw for 91 yards and two touchdowns on 7-of-8 passing. Jackson led four touchdown drives, earning praise from Cignetti: “I thought he went in there and did a good job. The team had confidence, and I was proud of him.”
Hoosiers’ Dominant Offense
Despite Rourke’s injury, the Hoosiers’ offense continued to dominate, producing 495 yards and only punting once against Nebraska’s defense, which ranked seventh in FBS in scoring defense. Justice Ellison rushed for 105 yards and two scores, and Indiana’s defense intercepted Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola three times in the 49-point rout.
Team Win
Cignetti attributed the team’s success to its overall strength: “I think this says a lot about our team. Now I know there was a national perception that Nebraska had a pretty legit defense on a national scale, so that’ll open their eyes. But I think this is a great team win.”
Looking Ahead
Indiana faces Washington (4-3) at home next Saturday, with the program closing in on its first Associated Press top-10 ranking since 2020.
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