Indiana Pulls Off 31-27 Upset Over No. 18 Missouri

Sep 20, 2014; Columbia, MO, USA; Missouri Tigers defensive lineman Shane Ray (56) tackles Indiana Hoosiers running back Tevin Coleman (6) during the first half at Faurot Field. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

The Indiana Hoosiers were coming off of a very disappointing loss to Bowling Green last week, and were focused on getting back on track against the #18 overall rated Missouri Tigers. It was a game that they were thought of as major underdogs, but they were able to head into Missouri and came away with a huge 31-27 upset. This is a statement win for a Hoosiers’ football program that has had a rough recent history.

Both teams fought hard until the very end, but the Hoosiers were simply able to make more winning plays down the stretch. Missouri took a three-point lead with just 2:20 left in the fourth quarter after a 40-yard field goal, but the Hoosiers marched all of the way down the field to score a touchdown with just 22 seconds remaining. Needless to say, this is a huge win for the Hoosiers and puts them right back in bowl contention despite last weeks disappointing loss.

Tevin Coleman once again led the way for the Hoosiers’ offense, carrying the football 19 times for 132 yards and a touchdown. He also caught three passes for 57 yards, and is continuing his dominant performance. Nate Sudfeld also put together a nice game, completing 18 of his 33 passing attempts for 252 yards and a touchdown. Wide receiver Shane Wynn led the team in receiving, catching six passes for 60 yards.

On the other side of the football, Maty Mauk threw for 334 yards, two touchdowns, and also threw an interceptions. Junior running back Russell Hansbrough led the Tigers in rushing with 119 yards and a touchdown on just 10 carries. Bud Sasser came through with a huge game receiving for Missouri, catching 12 passes for 153 yards, while Jimmie Hunt caught five passes for 75 yards and a touchdown.

Indiana’s offense is beginning to show some impressive potential, and the defense made just enough plays to come away with a win over a very good team. Does this mean that they will continue playing this dominant brand of football? Hopefully, but the Hoosiers have disappointed their fans coming off of big wins in the past.

All of that being said, this is a huge win for the Hoosiers, and they can head home with their heads held high. This type of win is huge when it comes to a bowl résumé later in the season.