Bowling Green @ Indiana preview

Indiana scored more points in the first two games combined than it ever has in program history and will get a strong challenge when Bowling Green visits on Saturday. Nine starters return from a Bowling Green defense that was sixth in the nation in average yards against last year and the Falcons started 2013 with victories over two teams coming off 11-win seasons. Indiana's passing game is averaging five touchdowns and 341 yards while Bowling Green has allowed 29 total points.

The Falcons look to start the season 3-0 for the first time since 2003 after beating Tulsa and Kent State with a balanced offense. The Hoosiers must be better on defense after allowing 76 points in the first two, including a 41-35 loss to Navy last week. Indiana meets Bowling Green for the first time, but is 36-8-1 all-time against Mid-American Conference opponents.

TV: Noon ET, ESPNU. LINE: Indiana -2.5

ABOUT BOWLING GREEN (2-0, 1-0 MAC): Sophomore Matt Johnson has supplanted senior Matt Schilz as the starter at quarterback after completing 30-of-48 passes for 508 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Shaun Joplin is his top target with eight receptions for 153 yards and Ryan Burbrink averaged 31.3 on four catches. Travis Greene, who had one rushing attempt last season as a freshman, has become a factor while gaining 233 yards on the ground and averaging 5.1 per carry.

ABOUT INDIANA (1-1): Nate Sudfeld’s 72.9 completion percentage and eight touchdown passes earned him more time than Tre Roberson, but coach Kevin Wilson said he will continue to use both in an offense that has scored 108 points. Tevin Coleman was held to 34 yards rushing last week after recording 169 in the opener and the Hoosiers also have experienced runner Stephen Houston if needed. Kofi Hughes and Ted Bolser have combined for 20 receptions, 305 yards and six touchdowns.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Hughes needs six receptions and Bolser seven to become the 19th and 20th Hoosiers to record 100 catches and 1,000 receiving yards.

2. Indiana K Mitch Ewald has made 45-of-56 field goals (80.4 percent) in his career along with a school-record 120 extra points in 121 chances.

3. Bowling Green is 5-15 all time against current members of the Big Ten after dropping three straight.

PREDICTION: Indiana 30, Bowling Green 28