Indiana football gets healthier at the right time as Ohio State loses two key starters

Indiana football coach Curt Cignetti currently enjoys a remarkably healthy roster mid-season. The No. 4 Hoosiers (6-0, 3-0 Big Ten) prepare to face the No. 5 Ohio State Buckeyes (5-1, 3-0) this weekend without a single starter sidelined. In contrast, Ohio State cannot claim the same health status for their team. Here is a rundown of the initial injury report for their upcoming game:

Isaiah Jones of Indiana has no reservations about swapping their Ohio State dream for the crimson shade of Indiana football. The Hoosiers' availability report for Wednesday, October 14 reveals that running back Khobie Martin is doubtful, while TE Andrew Barker is questionable. On the other hand, Indiana has seen a reduction in their injury report for the week as defensive back Carson Williams is now back from his absence in four consecutive games.

Receiver Lebron Bond, who missed the last two Indiana games, is also expected to be available for the upcoming matchup.

The depth provided by Indiana's reserve players aids both positions; however, the more significant development is Martin's potential return. Initially expected to share carries at running back with Lee Beebe Jr. and Turbo Richard, Martin suffered an arm injury during IU's second offensive play of the season. Indiana warmly welcomes Barker's return as well, as the redshirt freshman leads the team in snaps at tight end (144), despite missing the Nebraska game due to an undisclosed injury.

Ohio State, however, does not enjoy the same level of health for their team. The Buckeyes have already ruled out tackle Austin Siereveld and running back Ja Kobi Jackson as out. Siereveld, who started Ohio State's previous two games against the Hoosiers, is one of the most seasoned offensive linemen on the team. Jackson ranks second on the team in rushing with 59 carries for 354 yards, and he has also scored six touchdowns. Michael Niziolek is the Indiana beat reporter for The Bloomington Herald-Times.