This is one of those things that's understandably overlooked, but it shouldn't be. Micah McFadden just waxed (briefly) poetic on IU's scout team, and how much credit scout-team players deserve for IU's improvement.

(brief thread) #iufb

McFadden: "When you have a scout team that puts pressure on a defense and makes them work in practice, it shows up on game days. That’s what you guys are seeing." #iufb

I get why talking about scout-team players, adding quality walk-ons and average team signing class rankings all trigger varying degrees of disinterest. They aren't the sexiest things in the world. But they matter. A lot. #iufb

When Charlie Spegal comes to IU, it makes a difference. When Indiana recruits quality depth at QB, it makes a difference. When a staff invests in developing down its roster, it makes a difference. If you don't believe me, believe one of the best linebackers in the Big Ten. #iufb