Indiana had been struggling to find consistency on the offensive side of the ball. In a program that had seen highs and lows over the past decade, one thing had become crystal clear: the Hoosiers needed a game-changer at running back. So, when news broke that Maryland’s star rusher, DeAndre Matthews, was entering the transfer portal, it was clear that Indiana wasn’t going to let this opportunity slip by.
Matthews had been a powerhouse for Maryland the past two seasons. The 6-foot, 220-pound running back was a bruiser who could pound through defenses with speed and power. In his final year with the Terrapins, he led the team in rushing yards, total touchdowns, and average yards per carry. His ability to break tackles and turn short runs into explosive plays had made him a constant threat in the Big Ten. But with Maryland looking to move in a different direction and Matthews eager for a fresh start, Indiana’s coaching staff wasted no time in making their pitch.
Head coach Tom Allen, known for his defensive prowess, had long felt that the Hoosiers’ offense had been missing the kind of dynamic player that could swing the momentum of a game. He wasn’t looking for a flash-in-the-pan running back, but a steady, reliable force who could consistently gain yardage and wear down opposing defenses. Matthews was the perfect fit.
Allen and his staff made contact with Matthews within hours of his announcement. They flew out to meet him, showcasing Indiana’s facilities, fan support, and an offense that was eager for a player of his caliber. The pitch was simple: Matthews would come in as the centerpiece of the offense, the unquestioned leader of the backfield. It was a chance for him to shine under the bright lights of Memorial Stadium and make his mark on a program looking to make a splash in the Big Ten.
For Matthews, it was an easy decision. The prospect of stepping into the role of the Hoosiers’ lead rusher was exactly what he had been seeking. He had proven himself in the Big Ten, but now he wanted to take his game to the next level, on a team that could offer him the spotlight he deserved. Indiana’s steady upward trajectory under Allen was appealing. They were on the cusp of something bigger, and Matthews wanted to be a part of it.
But the transition wouldn’t be without its challenges. Matthews had to quickly learn the ins and outs of Indiana’s offense and adjust to a new coaching staff, new teammates, and a different style of play. The Hoosiers had a more balanced offensive scheme than Maryland, and Matthews would need to adapt to an offense that mixed the run and pass with precision.
Still, Matthews was more than up to the challenge. During his first spring practice with Indiana, it became clear that he wasn’t just the same player that had impressed in Maryland; he was better. His vision had improved, his patience in finding holes was refined, and his already formidable strength had only grown. Coaches and teammates alike marveled at his ability to break through tackles with ease, while also showing the agility to make defenders miss in the open field.
The Hoosiers’ offensive line, which had struggled in previous seasons, began to show more promise as Matthews brought his leadership and determination to the locker room. With him in the backfield, the offensive line seemed to gel, working more cohesively to create running lanes. Matthews was the spark they needed, and with each practice, the excitement in Bloomington grew.
By the time the season opener arrived, Indiana fans were eager to see their new star in action. Expectations were high, but Matthews didn’t let the pressure get to him. In his first game, he ran for over 150 yards and two touchdowns, leading the Hoosiers to a dominating victory. His presence on the field was undeniable, and it was clear that Matthews had transformed Indiana’s offense into one of the most dangerous in the Big Ten.
As the season went on, Matthews continued to shine, living up to the hype that had surrounded his transfer. His performances kept Indiana in the conversation for a bowl game, and by the end of the year, the Hoosiers were firmly positioned as a rising contender in the Big Ten. For Matthews, the move to Indiana had been exactly what he needed—a fresh start, a new opportunity, and a chance to become a legend in his own right.