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I love when commentators say a particular injury has "come at the worst possible time." Is there ever a right time for an injury?
The injuries are starting to add up for Indiana. And Michigan State made them pay in a 42-29 victory Saturday against the Hoosiers at Memorial Stadium.
Yes, Javon Ringer rushed for 198 yards. But it had to be the quietest 198 yards I could recall. Michigan State really got after IU with its passing game.
Brian Hoyer threw for 261 yards and two touchdowns. The Spartans took advantage of IU's inexperienced secondary, which was forced into action because of injuries. Cornerback Christopher Phillips and safety Nick Polk were out with knee injuries.
Phillips is lost for the season. Safety Austin Thomas missed his second straight game with a lower leg injury.
Hoyer completed a pass to Charlie Gantt right before halftime for which could have been a relatively short gain. But safety Jerimy Finch gambled and went for the interception. The gamble failed and the play turned into an 82-yard touchdown. It's no knock on Finch. He'll learn with more time, if he can keep healthy.
Finch suffered a foot injury against the Spartans. We'll get an update on his status later this week.
The Hoosiers also lost receivers Andrew Means and Tandon Doss to injury. If they are out for an extended period of time, that will mean more responsibilities for Fort Wayne's Damarlo Belcher. Or maybe that will mean even more time at the position for quarterback Kellen Lewis.
Not exactly the best situation for Big Ten play, or any time of the season.
lpope@jg.net
