Game Preview: Youngstown State vs Indiana State

Indiana State Outlook

It has been an up-and-down season for the Indiana State Football Team, to say the least. Whether it’s upsetting South Dakota State in Brookings or losing six straight games after a 2-0 start, ISU has experienced the highs and lows of life in the MVFC.

The first indicator of a chaotic campaign presented itself in just the second game of the season when star quarterback Elijah Owens suffered a collarbone injury – forcing the coaching staff to thrust backup QB Keegan Patterson into the starting role.

Patterson has found his footing and proven to be a solid backup option. However, filling in for Owens and matching his immense talent has been a challenge. After defeating Eastern Illinois 38-14, the sledding got tough fast.

Over the next three outings, Indiana State gave up a combined 191 points and collapsed to a record of 2-6. With nothing left to play for, ISU was a team that most had written off. But to the Sycamores credit, they were able to respond with a massive upset – creating one of the most incredible moments of the entire 2025 FCS Season.

With a trip to Youngstown, Ohio on the docket, Indiana State will look to accomplish one thing: ruin YSU’s season and eliminate their postseason dreams.

Inside the Numbers

Indiana State has struggled mightily on both sides of the ball, with the offense scoring 20.80 points per game (91st) and the defense allowing 39.60 points per game (119th).

In terms of time of possession and remaining ahead of the sticks, ISU’s offensive operation has consistently put the defense in brutal situations. On average, Indiana State holds the ball for just 23 minutes and 16 seconds, ranks 118th in TFLs allowed with 77 and converts only 28.79% of its third-down attempts.

To make matters worse, the Sycamores have allowed 24 total sacks and produce just 289.6 total yards of offense per game. Defensively, the numbers aren’t much better – ISU gives up 240 rushing yards per game, 492.7 total yards, and 252.70 passing yards per contest.

One bright spot for this unit has been fourth-down defense, where opponents convert just 33.3% of attempts.

Keys to the Game

For YSU, it will be important to start fast and come out firing on offense. The Penguins boast a balanced attack that is near impossible to slow down when clicking on all cylinders. If Youngstown State can surge ahead early, Indiana State will struggle to stay competitive.

This is also a great redemption opportunity for YSU’s defense after a slow start last week against Southern Illinois. Winning on first and second down will be critical, as ISU struggles when forced into third-and-long situations.

From a special teams standpoint, the ‘Guins will have to be dialed in. Indiana State has created explosive plays on kickoff returns this season, and YSU must be prepared for potential trickery.

Final Thoughts

This is a game I expect YSU to win and control. The Sycamores would have to play a near-perfect game to have a chance, and that’s unlikely on the road against a team as electric as Youngstown State.

Prediction: Youngstown State 52, Indiana State 17.