Full Breakdown
Indiana Running Back Lee Beebe Jr. Out for Season Due to Knee Injury
9/16/2025, 1:45:38 PM
Injury Announcement and Impact on Team
Indiana University football's junior running back, Lee Beebe Jr., will miss the remainder of the 2025 season after sustaining a non-contact knee injury during a game against Indiana State on September 12. Head coach Curt Cignetti confirmed the injury during a press conference on September 15, stating that Beebe fell to the ground after a nine-yard rush in the third quarter of Indiana's 73-0 victory. At the time of his injury, Beebe had already contributed significantly to the game, rushing for 46 yards on five carries.
Beebe's performance this season had been notable, with a total of 27 carries for 209 yards and one touchdown, averaging 7.7 yards per carry. He ranked second on the team in rushing yards, contributing to Indiana's impressive third-place national ranking in rushing offense, averaging 307.7 yards per game.
Background on Lee Beebe Jr.
Beebe transferred to Indiana from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) after a successful stint where he accumulated 1,844 all-purpose yards and earned third-team All-American Athletic Conference honors in 2024. His experience and performance made him a key player in Indiana's running back rotation alongside seniors Roman Hemby and Kaelon Black.
Adjustments to the Roster
With Beebe sidelined, Indiana will likely rely more heavily on Hemby and Black, who have also been effective this season. Hemby has recorded 175 yards on 32 carries, while Black has contributed 149 yards on 27 carries. Additionally, redshirt freshman Khobie Martin is expected to step into a larger role, having shown promise with 11 carries for 109 yards and two touchdowns against Indiana State.
Cignetti expressed confidence in Martin's abilities, stating, “He’s got talent, and he’ll get more reps. We’re going to need him.” The Hoosiers will face a significant challenge as they prepare to host No. 9 Illinois in their Big Ten opener on September 16.
Official Statements & Responses
Curt Cignetti remarked on Beebe's injury, emphasizing the impact on the team's dynamics: “Beebe sustained a non-contact knee injury and will be lost for the season.” He acknowledged the need for the remaining running backs to adapt to the increased workload, highlighting the team's depth and resilience.
What's Next for Indiana Football
As Indiana prepares for its upcoming game against Illinois, the coaching staff will need to reconfigure their offensive strategy to compensate for Beebe's absence. The Hoosiers aim to maintain their strong rushing performance while integrating Martin into the backfield rotation. The outcome of this adjustment will be closely monitored as the season progresses.
