Could past be prologue when it comes to how Indiana quarterback Josh Hoover performs versus a defense coached by Michigan defensive coordinator Jay Hill? That will certainly be the hope for the Wolverines on Saturday when they take on No. 6 Indiana.
Hoover was the quarterback at TCU last season and Hill was the defensive coordinator of BYU. Hill’s defense absolutely took it to Hoover and TCU.
In a 44-13 loss to BYU last season, Hoover was 10-of-23 for 183 yards with two interceptions. Hoover was pressured
constantly and did not fare well with a heavy pass rush and was sacked four times in all.
Hoover’s had a great start to the 2026 season with Indiana, throwing for 18 touchdowns and zero interceptions. Turnovers were a knock on Hoover when he transferred to the Hoosiers after throwing 13 interceptions last season, but Indiana head coach Curt Cignetti seems to be getting the best out of him, just like he did with Fernando Mendoza.
Hoover struggled last week against Ohio State’s relentless pressure and had his worst game of the season in a 19-15 loss, going 20-of-40 for 296 yards and a touchdown. Hoover wasn’t much better in a 20-17 win over Nebraska the week prior, going 12-of-22 for 263 yards and two touchdowns. If Michigan is able to create situations where Hoover is under duress, he could have his third game in a row where his completion rate is hovering around 50%.
Michigan’s defense is currently ranked No. 4 in the nation in total defense, No. 13 in passing yards allowed, and No. 33 in team sacks. Michigan’s defense, along with Hill’s scheme and familiarity with Hoover are all advantages for the Wolverines. Whether that correlates in Hoover struggling against Hill’s unit once again remains to be seen, but there’s a strong case that Hoover will have a long day against Michigan and it’ll be the Wolverines pulling off an upset on Saturday.
