Indiana football receiver Donaven McCulley won't play against Western Illinois

Passing game

The Hoosiers will be without one of their top pass-catchers when they open the season against Western Illinois on Saturday.

Redshirt sophomore receiver Donaven McCulley will miss the game with an undisclosed injury.

Coach Tom Allen said after practice Tuesday that McCulley is "day-to-day" and could return next week against Idaho.

Other news regarding McCulley injury

McCulley had 28 catches for 359 yards and two touchdowns last season.

He was expected to be one of the Hoosiers' top targets in the passing game this season.

Without McCulley, Indiana will likely turn to Ty Fryfogle, Miles Marshall, David Baker and Javon Swinton in the passing game.

Indiana will also be without wide receiver Cam Camper, who is suspended for the first half of the game against Western Illinois.

Tight end Peyton Hendershot is also not expected to play due to an undisclosed injury.

Conclusion

The Hoosiers will be counting on their defense to step up in McCulley's absence.

Indiana allowed just 18.3 points per game last season, which was second in the Big Ten.

The Hoosiers will also need to get more production from their running game.

Indiana averaged just 110.9 rushing yards per game last season, which was 12th in the Big Ten.