Tayven Jackson Leads No. 13 Indiana Past Washington in 31-17 Victory

In Bloomington, Indiana, the Indiana Hoosiers defeated the Washington Huskies 31-17 on October 26, 2024. The game marked Tayven Jackson's first start of the season following an injury to regular quarterback Kurtis Rourke. Jackson showcased his skills by throwing for one touchdown and adding a rushing score. Indiana’s defense, led by D'Angelo Ponds, made significant contributions by intercepting two passes that led directly to touchdowns, helping the Hoosiers maintain their perfect record with an 8-0 standing. The contest turned out to be atypical for both teams. Indiana, usually known for its high-scoring offense, relied on a potent running game, with Justice Ellison leading the ground attack with 123 rushing yards and a touchdown. The Hoosiers scored on key possessions, including an efficient 42-yard touchdown pass to Omar Cooper Jr., and a strong third-quarter effort solidified their lead. Contrarily, the Huskies struggled offensively, despite some promising moments that momentarily made the game competitive. Head coach Jedd Fisch's remarks highlighted a disconnect within Washington's team, with the offense failing to perform in synchrony with the defense. The inability to capitalize on opportunities ultimately hindered their chances of making a comeback. With this victory, Indiana further solidified its position at the top of the Big Ten standings. As they move forward, Washington will face Southern California next, while Indiana prepares for a crucial match against Michigan State, continuing their pursuit of excellence in the conference.