Predicted Overall Record 3-9 (0-8 in Big Ten)

Click the link for the 2011 Indiana Hoosiers football schedule.

New Coach Kevin Wilson is set to take over at Indiana and the former offensive coordinator at Oklahoma will have his hands full as he tries to get this program back to respectability. As was proven during the Bill Mallory era, wins are hard to come by for this program during conference play. It would no surprise me if this program wins three or four games in 2011, but winning a Big Ten game seems very doubtful.

Strengths: Installing a new coach will give this team a much-needed boost. The receiving corps certainly could be the strength of this team. Indiana had the top three receivers in terms of receptions in the Big Ten last season. They will get their top guy back as well in Damario Belcher to lead the way. Indiana also has some promising newcomers that should be able to contribute right away. The question will remain whether they can find a serviceable quarterback to get the ball to these playmakers.

Weakness: The offensive line was hit hard by graduation last year, but spring practice looked somewhat encouraging with center Will Matte locking down a position. The defense certainly did not play well last year and once again this unit will be a major concern in 2011. This squad gave up big play after big play all season long. This unit must improve if Indiana has any chance of winning six games and going to a bowl game.

Favorable Win Against the Spread: Oct. 29 vs. Northwestern. Indiana will likely come in as an underdog in this game and Northwestern is not a team that performs well as a favorite. Two years ago Indiana led Northwestern, 28-3, before Northwestern rallied with 26 unanswered points to win, 29-28. Indiana led in the game last year as well before falling, 20-17. The Wildcats will be coming off a tough four-game stretch and a letdown here could create an upset win.

Favorable Loss Against the Spread: Nov. 26 vs. Purdue. Purdue will want this game after losing the Old Oaken Bucket in 2010 to Indiana, 34-31. Being that the matchup will take place in Bloomington, the line will be low and Purdue could be in line for the cover. Purdue may need this one to ensure a quality bowl bid and a rout would not surprise this writer.

Closing Thoughts: Look for this Hoosiers program to make strides this season under Coach Wilson, but it will be a painful battle as they try and climb back to respectability. With numerous question marks on both offense and defense, one should only consider playing this team at home. They will be blown out numerous times on the road this year.

Doc’s Sports is set to embark on their 40th year in the sports handicapping business this football season. Yes, Doc started the company back in 1971 and still spends his weekends in front of the TV watching numerous games throughout the day. We are again expecting a monster season in college football anchored by our weekly selections from the Big Ten Conference. Our main office is located right in the heart of Big Ten Country and each year we fully expect to hit 2 out of every 3 college football picks we release from this conference. Jump on board now with a full season football picks package from Doc’s Sports!