Bloodied Josh Hoover delivers unforgettable four-touchdown debut for Indiana

Josh Hoover's first start for Indiana included four touchdown passes, a dominant victory and enough blood on his face mask to make the afternoon look far more difficult than it actually was.

That is one memorable way to begin a national championship defense.

Hoover completed 13 of 16 passes for 231 yards and four touchdowns as No. 6 Indiana overwhelmed North Texas 52-16 on Saturday in Bloomington. The former TCU quarterback entered the season with one of the most unenviable assignments in college football. He was replacing Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza, who led Indiana through its historic championship campaign.

Hoover did not appear bothered by the expectations. His first pass in an Indiana uniform went for a 15-yard touchdown. He later connected with Charlie Becker for a 35-yard score immediately after North Texas had pulled within 24-13 early in the second half.

The response helped turn a potentially interesting game into another comfortable Indiana victory. Hoover also avoided committing a turnover, even after suffering a bloody nose that left his face mask noticeably covered in blood.

Indiana coach Curt Cignetti came away impressed with the composure his new quarterback displayed.

"I thought Josh was sharp," Cignetti said, according to The Associated Press . "I thought he played with a lot of confidence today." ( AP News )

Indiana may have found another perfect fit at quarterback

Nobody should confuse North Texas with the challenges Indiana will face later in the season. Still, Hoover's efficiency was exactly what the Hoosiers needed to see.

He did not force throws or attempt to recreate Mendoza's championship season by himself. Hoover distributed the ball to Indiana's playmakers and allowed the offense to operate around him.

Becker caught four passes for 64 yards and two touchdowns. Nick Marsh and Davion Chandler also caught scoring passes, while Boston College transfer Turbo Richard rushed for two touchdowns.

Indiana extended the longest active winning streak in the FBS to 17 games. The Hoosiers have also won 16 consecutive games at home.

Those streaks bring increased expectations, but Cignetti's program has repeatedly demonstrated an ability to replace important players without losing its identity.

Hoover's arrival may be the latest example.

One performance cannot answer every question about Indiana's championship defense. It can, however, establish that the moment is not too large for the new quarterback.

Hoover took a hit, played through a bloody nose and kept delivering touchdowns. For an Indiana team attempting to prove last season was the start of something sustainable, that was an ideal opening statement.

At the end of the day, Indiana lost a Heisman Trophy quarterback, but Hoover's gritty debut showed the Hoosiers may not have lost their championship edge.