Tom Allen Previews Maryland

On Mike Hart, Logan Justus, Luke Timian up for awards...
"Proud of those guys, each one of them for what they have accomplished. All kind of overcoming challenges in different forms in their experiences. Coach Hart with our running back room experience, two big losses of our top two guys with that group. The way Stevie Scott has performed, the guy he recruited, and just keep those guys next man up mentality. The guy is doing a great job. Luke Timian, one of my all time favorites because of his attitude and mindset. His production coming here as a walk-on, earning it the old fashioned way, being a great leader and amazing person off the field. Logan Justus, what can you say? He came here as well to earn an opportunity. He's done that on the field amidst a very competitive contest during fall camp to be able to earn that spot and he's produced on the field. Done a great job for us. Real proud of those three guys."

On how refreshed the team is after an open week...
"Much needed rest. Physical rest, mental rest. I think they came back refreshed, which is one of our objectives and to have a very productive week, and did a lot of recruiting as a staff as well. Guys came back energized and we've had a really good week so far, really pleased with our preparation and just have to go prove it on game day."

On Maryland's offense...
"We say from day one 'you have to stop the run,' and it's never more true then against this team. They are a great running team. There is no question they struggled against Michigan State, but Michigan State is one of the best run defenses in the country. I just think bottom line that is what they want to do. They do a lot of things that are very challenging, they are very well coached, very good staff. They've overcome a lot of adversity. They stuck together, so hats off to them for that. We are going to get their best shot for sure so our guys have to be very disciplined with our eyes, with our fits, tackle extremely well and they can throw it too, so you have to be a complete defense."

On challenges Maryland's defense presents...
"They do a great job in the box. They have some really good players up front and create a lot of takeaways. They are top in the Big Ten in interceptions. They do a good job of mixing things up in the backend, but they play really fast and have a lot of good athletes. They are much improved on the defensive side of the football. Big challenge for our offense and we have to play our best."

On Hall of Fame wide receiver Glenn Scolnik being honorary captain...
"We've had some special (honorary captains) and he's next in line for that. Great player here, great person. Even though I wasn't around when he played, I got to know him through this process and he's been here several times. Just to see he is passionate about our football program, about our university. Obviously a great player for us and really proud of him, and it is a tremendous honor to be inducted into the Hall of Fame and glad he'll be on the sideline with us as honorary captain."

Players Mentioned

Logan Justus

Stevie Scott III

Luke Timian

Indiana University Athletics