Indiana football: 5 biggest X-factors who could swing the 2026 season (DEFENSE)
Summary
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Indiana's second starting cornerback job remains unsettled between Penn State transfer A.J. Harris and Ryland Gandy after injuries caused both players to miss portions of fall camp.
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Sophomore Byron Baldwin Jr. is positioned to start at rover and serve as a movable defensive piece in coverage, run support and corner blitzes, although his limited college experience creates missed-assignment risk.
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Kansas State transfer Chiddi Obiazor will primarily play strong-side defensive end but can shift to three-technique on passing downs or outside in short-yardage packages.
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Wisconsin transfer Preston Zachman returns from a season-ending 2025 injury with 35 games and seven career interceptions and is expected to replace Louis Moore as a versatile starting safety.
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Defensive tackle Mario Landino returns alongside Tyrique Tucker and could receive more one-on-one pass-rush opportunities because opponents must account for Indiana's broader front-seven depth.
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Teams:
Indiana
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