Full Breakdown
Indiana Hoosiers Lose RB Khobie Martin to Midseason-Long Injury
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
Indiana’s season-opening 52-16 victory over North Texas was halted for running back Khobie Martin when he left the game in the first quarter with a right-arm injury. Coach Curt Cignetti confirmed that Martin will miss “a little bit” and is expected to return around midseason. The injury also sidelined starting cornerbacks A.J. Harris and Jamari Sharpe, who were listed as day-to-day.
Background & Context
Martin, a 6-foot, 210-pound native of Fishers, Indiana, entered his third year with the Hoosiers after posting 505 rushing yards and six touchdowns on 78 carries last season as the team’s No. 3 running back behind Roman Hemby and Kaelon Black. The Hoosiers, defending national champions, had planned to use Martin in a three-man rotation with Boston College transfer Turbo Richard and Lee Beebe Jr., both returning from injuries of the prior season.
Official Statements & Responses
Coach Cignetti addressed the injury in the weekly press conference, stating, “Khobie Martin will be out a little bit,” and adding that the team expects his return “sometime around midseason.” He also noted that cornerbacks Harris and Sharpe “are day-to-day” and that their injuries are “not long-term deals.” Cignetti expressed confidence in quarterback Josh Hoover’s debut performance, praising his four touchdown passes despite a facial injury.
Data & Statistics
- Martin’s 2023 season: 505 rushing yards, 6 touchdowns, 78 carries.
- In the North Texas game, Indiana amassed 52 points on 516 total yards.
- Turbo Richard recorded 15 carries for 58 yards and two touchdowns in his Indiana debut.
- Lee Beebe Jr. logged 14 carries for 33 yards and a 67-yard kickoff return that set up the first score.
- Indiana has a 17-game overall winning streak and a 16-game home winning streak, the longest active streaks in the Football Bowl Subdivision.
What’s Next
With Martin unavailable, Indiana will rely on Richard, Beebe, and other backs as it prepares for its next matchup against Ohio State. The coaching staff will monitor Harris and Sharpe’s recovery while aiming to maintain the team’s unbeaten home record.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Khobie Martin will be out a little bit,” — Curt Cignetti, coach
