Hoosier Outlook: Fischer Says Hoover Leads If Healthy, Praises Basketball Fight

Josh Hoover is expected to start for the Indiana football team on Saturday if his physical condition allows, according to Don Fischer. The longtime sports broadcaster stated during a morning appearance on Query & Company on 107.5 The Fan that Hoover reported feeling good during a recent interview. Fischer noted that quarterback Grant Wilson runs the same offensive scheme, meaning the game plan remains identical regardless of who takes the field. The Hoosiers face the University of Southern California at 3:30 p.m. Saturday, with pregame coverage beginning at 2:30 p.m.

Fischer offered a detailed analysis of the Indiana men's basketball team following their 83-80 victory over Syracuse at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. He described the contest as a struggle with shooting efficiency but praised the squad's resilience in the final minutes. Fischer quoted head coach Darian DeVries as being dissatisfied with the defensive effort, particularly noting how Syracuse’s physical length created difficulties for the Hoosiers. However, Fischer said the manner in which Indiana fought back to secure the win left him feeling positive about the team's character.

The offensive load has shifted to the perimeter, with Markus Burton and Darren Harris each scoring 20 points against Syracuse. Fischer also highlighted Bryce Lindsay as a key threat from outside. He described practice sessions where Lindsay’s shooting form was so exceptional it prompted a reaction of disbelief from Fischer. Despite these perimeter successes, the interior scoring has not yet developed as planned. Fischer attributed this to the current stage of player integration, noting that the team is still in the process of getting accustomed to one another.

In football, Fischer offered high praise for head coach Curt Cignetti’s ability to maintain player focus. He described Cignetti as the best he has seen at directing attention to the immediate next opponent. With the USC game approaching, Fischer emphasized the team's current singular focus on that matchup. He also touched on the basketball schedule, noting that Indiana plays Tennessee Tech on Thursday. Pregame coverage for that game will air on the sister station 93.1 WIBC.

Fischer concluded his segment by reflecting on the history of the Indiana and Kentucky basketball rivalry. He expressed a strong preference for the continuation of that series, stating that it should have never stopped. He called the rivalry a great one and voiced his hope that it persists for many more seasons. The full discussion from the show is available on the 107.5 The Fan YouTube channel.