Bloomington, Ind. – In a surprising update, QB Michael Penix Jr. may not play against the No. 6 Ohio State Buckeyes this weekend. Coach Tom Allen released this information today to the public stating the redshirt freshman is “going through some things” health-wise. Penix is now a gametime decision this weekend.
Penix appeared healthy and played well against the Eastern Illinois Panthers this weekend. He played nearly the entire first half before previous starter, Peyton Ramsey took the helm of the offense and played well himself. He did not appear to suffer any injury to lead to this decision of having him sit the rest of the game. It is unknown if the injury occurred before, during or after last weekend’s game.
Public information of the injury to Penix is developing currently. We do know that it is likely a “short-term” injury and fortunately, Penix has been able to practice some this week. It is not public if this is an upper- or lower-body injury.
Penix has been able to complete 63.3% of his passes for 523 yards with 3 TDs and 2 interceptions this season. He has been a dual threat so far, with 79 rushing yards this season. His 301 yards of total offense put him in third in the conference.
Ramsey will be the likely replacement for Penix if a back-up is needed to start. Ramsey led the Hoosiers in all 12 games last season. Ramsey completed 26 of 49 attempts for 322 yards and 3 TDs last season against the Buckeyes. He completed 13 of 14 for 226 yards and 2 TDs last week against Eastern Illinois.
The injury to Penix will be a significant blow to the Hoosiers if he is unable to play against Ohio State due to the dual threat potential he provides. Regardless, both Penix and Ramsey have both had significant on-field time this season and offer the Hoosiers an opportunity to lead the team to a victory over the Buckeyes.
More details to come as they are disclosed.
