Each week, HSOM will grade the Hoosiers on their performance as it relates to the “Keys to Victory” outlined prior in the game preview.

1. Defense. Just Defense.

Was the Hoosier defense perfect? No. But, it was markedly improved from its outing against Bowling Green and proved to be the difference against Mizzou.

The Hoosiers gave up 503 yards (yuck) but only allowed 27 points (better). They bent but did not break for a team known for its high-powered offense. QB Maty Mauk, who went into the game tied for the most passing TDs in the country with 12, threw for 331 yards and two touchdowns, but also gave the ball away with an interception. The biggest thing IU did was pressure Mauk. It seemed like every time he dropped back to pass, a Hoosier was in his face. He was constantly forced to move around the pocket, running away from defenders hellbent on taking him down. Indiana only sacked him twice, but pressured him countless times. All in all, a very, very solid defensive performance from the Hoosiers.

Grade: B+

2. Run Tevin, RUN!

Tevin Coleman continues to be one of the best running backs in the country. He gashed Missouri for 132 yards on 19 carries (6.9 average) and a touchdown, and that’s despite missing significant time with dehydration. His 44-yard catch and run on the final drive set up the game-winning score.

If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it 100 times, when Coleman has the ball good things tend to happen.

Grade: A-

3. Sudfeld MUST Perform Despite Heavy Pressure

It wasn’t the best game he’s ever played, but Sudfeld got the job done. He could have been more efficient (18-of-33, 252 yards, 1 TD), but he didn’t turn the ball over. He made smart decisions all day and excelled when he had to. His fourth down conversion on the final drive most likely changed Indiana’s season. After last season, where he was plagued by late game mistakes, it was great to see him finally take care of business.

Grade: B+

4. Show Up During Winning Time

Just a week ago in “Winning Time,” the Hoosiers defense let Bowling Green go 88 yards for the game-winning score. Against Missouri, it was the offense who was tasked with making plays to win the game. Sudfeld and Co. delivered. The Hoosiers put together a six play 75-yard drive in 1:58 for the go ahead score. Pure magic by the Hoosier O.

Grade: A

5. Beat Kevin Down Cherry Hill

This was in reference to “Little Giants,” and basically means Missouri may win nine times out of 10, but that leaves the Hoosiers with one chance to win.

This had to be that time, and IU got the job done. Despite being on the road in SEC country, facing a ranked opponent (who by the way was in the SEC Championship last year), the Hoosiers didn’t flinch. In fact, they took the fight to Missouri. IU needed a win to get its season back on track, and that’s exactly what it did.

Grade: A