Indiana entered the 2025 campaign with a defensive tackle group that ranked among the nation’s elite, allowing just 79.7 rushing yards per game and ranking second in sacks.
The Returning Leaders
Tyrique Tucker and Mario Landino are set to anchor the line again, each carrying All‑American expectations. Tucker started all 16 games and earned first‑team All‑Big Ten and AP third‑team All‑American honors, while Landino appeared in every game with 11 starts, posting 32 tackles, six tackles for loss and five sacks.
Adding depth, transfer Joe Hjelle from Tulsa is expected to see significant snaps in a rotational role, giving the staff more flexibility.
The incoming freshman class — Cam McHaney, Gabe Hill, Rodney White and Blake Smythe — brings high recruiting ratings and could provide additional firepower as the team looks to maintain its defensive dominance.
What to Watch in 2026
Coaches are focused on preserving the unit’s depth while integrating the new pieces, aiming to keep the rush pressure high and the run defense tight. With the returning stars and a promising talent pool, Indiana’s defensive line is positioned to remain one of the most feared in the nation next season.