The Indiana Hoosiers’ heartbreaking defeat to Notre Dame in the College Football Playoff (CFP) marks the end of an era for several key players who won’t be returning next season. While Indiana’s program has taken significant strides forward, this loss exposes the gaps that will need filling as they strive for a better future. Here’s a look at the four most significant Hoosiers who will not return, and who could take their place in the 2024 season.
1. Quarterback Drew Peirce: The End of the Line
Drew Peirce’s career was a rollercoaster of highs and lows, and his final game in the CFP against Notre Dame was a microcosm of his entire tenure at Indiana. Though he showed flashes of brilliance, inconsistency at critical moments in big games, like the Notre Dame loss, ultimately prevented him from becoming the quarterback the Hoosiers needed to take that next step. He threw two crucial interceptions against Notre Dame, and his inability to find rhythm during key stretches put his team in a hole they couldn’t dig out of.
Replacement: Enter freshman QB Nate Lawson, a highly touted recruit from the state of Indiana who has been lighting up practice. Known for his mobility and accuracy under pressure, Lawson might be the answer to Indiana’s long-standing QB conundrum. While it’s a risk to rely on a freshman, Indiana may find more success in the long term with someone who can stretch the field and make the necessary plays in clutch moments.
2. Wide Receiver Terrence Johnson: Missed Opportunities
Terrence Johnson’s career at Indiana will be remembered for his explosive playmaking ability, but it’s hard to ignore his tendency to disappear in key moments. Against Notre Dame, Johnson was nearly invisible, failing to record a reception in the second half when the Hoosiers were desperately trying to mount a comeback. As a senior, Johnson’s inability to take over in such an important game left fans questioning whether he ever lived up to his potential.
Replacement: Incoming sophomore receiver Keith Jackson, who spent last season in a limited role, will step into the starting lineup. Jackson showed chemistry with Peirce earlier in the season and will likely be the go-to target for Lawson. With his size and speed, he could develop into the go-to weapon that Indiana needs on the outside.
3. Linebacker Marcus Hill: A Defensive Void
Marcus Hill’s leadership on the defensive side of the ball has been invaluable over the past few seasons, but his performance in the loss to Notre Dame left much to be desired. While he was solid in run support, Hill struggled in pass coverage, allowing Notre Dame’s tight ends and running backs to find soft spots in the defense. His missed tackles and inability to read Notre Dame’s offensive scheme played a pivotal role in the Hoosiers’ demise.
Replacement: Incoming transfer linebacker Luke Harris, a former All-Conference player from Toledo, will be expected to fill Hill’s shoes. Harris is known for his sideline-to-sideline range and strong football IQ, making him an ideal candidate to step into a starting role. With a higher level of play expected from him, Harris should help solidify a defense that’s been inconsistent in big games.
4. Cornerback Jalen Stewart: A Weak Link
Jalen Stewart’s struggles against top-tier competition have been well-documented throughout the season, and his performance against Notre Dame was no exception. Notre Dame’s wide receivers were able to exploit Stewart’s lack of physicality and reaction time, leading to several big plays. His inability to match up with elite talents became glaring as the game progressed, and it was clear that Stewart wasn’t the answer to Indiana’s secondary woes.
Replacement: Sophomore Michael Daniels is poised to step up and take over Stewart’s role at cornerback. Daniels has been a consistent performer in practice and has the physical tools to thrive in a starting role. His ability to cover deep routes and improve the Hoosiers’ coverage should help to close the gaps in the secondary, which has been a significant concern throughout the season.
Looking Ahead
Indiana’s loss to Notre Dame may sting, but it also opens the door for new faces and fresh opportunities in 2024. Replacing these key players won’t be easy, but with the incoming talent and the development of existing players, the Hoosiers could make the necessary adjustments to challenge for a playoff spot in the coming seasons. With a new quarterback, a revamped receiving corps, and a bolstered defense, Indiana has the potential to build on the lessons learned from this season and rise stronger next year.
The question is: Will these changes be enough to return the Hoosiers to prominence, or will they fall short once again? Only time will tell.