
IU Football’s Defensive Line Poised for a Breakout Season
With key veterans returning and promising newcomers, Indiana University's defensive line aims to be a cornerstone of the 2026 campaign.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Bryant Haines across Football.

With key veterans returning and promising newcomers, Indiana University's defensive line aims to be a cornerstone of the 2026 campaign.

After initially criticizing Indiana University’s 2024 playoff loss, ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit now projects the Hoosiers as Big Ten champions, citing a perfect 16‑0 season, a 15‑game home winning streak and a top‑tier coaching staff. He predicts a pivotal October 17 matchup against Ohio State in Bloomington will seal the conference title, while also forecasting a No. 1 playoff seed for Indiana.

Indiana University locks in key coordinators Bryant Haines and Mike Shanahan, celebrating award wins and a stable staff as they eye future opportunities.

A look at the linebackers set to anchor Indiana’s defense, the return of a sack leader, and the promising depth that could shape the 2026 season.

The 2026 college football season will be defined by strategic battles between top coordinators and head coaches, each bringing distinct schemes and personnel that could tip the balance in high‑stakes games.

From a high school walk‑on in Florida to a key defender for Indiana, Rolijah Hardy balances preseason accolades with a focus on daily improvement.

The Hoosiers finished second nationally in rushing yards allowed in 2025, and with new edge talent and a focus on versatility, the defense looks to build on that momentum heading into the next season.

The second week of fall practice reveals a more demanding environment, with key players stepping into leadership roles and coaches emphasizing accountability as the program eyes a strong season.
Indiana University’s defense is being hailed as the cornerstone of a potential repeat Big Ten championship and a serious national title push in 2026.
After a knee injury sidelined him for the season, linebacker Kellan Wyatt is set to rejoin the Indiana roster, adding depth and experience to the Hoosiers’ defensive plans.

Joe Brunner’s move to tackle and Joe Hjelle’s deepening role on defense highlight a culture of growth, mentorship, and disciplined competition at Indiana University.
After a knee injury sidelined him during the playoff run, linebacker Kellan Wyatt rejoins the Indiana University roster, bringing 27 tackles and a knack for pressure.
After a knee injury sidelined him during Indiana University's playoff run, linebacker Kellan Wyatt rejoins the roster, bringing experience and depth to the defensive scheme under coordinator Bryant Haines.

After season‑ending knee injuries in 2025, Stephen Daley and Kellan Wyatt are progressing toward full practice capacity, bolstering Indiana University's defensive line.

After season‑ending injuries, the Hoosiers welcome back two standout linemen whose combined sack and tackle‑for‑loss numbers promise to reshape the defensive scheme heading into 2026.

Indiana University’s defense, fresh off a 2025 national championship, looks stronger than ever with key transfers and versatile players ready to lead the charge in 2026.

Indiana’s defense limited opponents to fewer than 20 points in 13 of 16 games, topped the nation in tackles for loss, and will rely on holdovers and new faces to protect its national championship.
The Hoosiers’ defense, which topped the Big Ten in several categories last year, must replace several starters while integrating fresh talent ahead of their season opener.
A look at the standout 2025 performance, the challenges facing the revamped unit, and what the September opener against North Texas might reveal.
A Colorado court’s preliminary injunction grants Stephen Daley an extra season of eligibility, but the NCAA’s pending appeal could still reshape his 2026 outlook.

Indiana University’s football program enters the 2026 season as the reigning national champion, having finished the previous year unbeaten at 16‑0 and atop the Big Ten standings. The Hoosiers’ dominance was reflected in the national rankings, with their offense securing third place in scoring and total offense, while the defense ranked second in points allowed and fourth in overall yardage.

ESPN's FPI and Bill Connelly's SP+ model both project strong seasons for Indiana, but the rankings reveal a nuanced picture of national title expectations.
From playoff ambitions to academic critiques, the SEC’s media gathering in Tampa has become a flashpoint for rivalries, recruiting strategies and cultural conversations.
The SEC's media days in Tampa are fast approaching, bringing with them a swirl of storylines that have defined the conference's offseason narrative, from playoff format disputes to sharp cultural critiques.