Pete Thamel of ESPN is reporting IU football quarterback Kurtis Rourke will miss next weekend’s game against Washington, maybe more.
“Sources: Indiana quarterback Kurtis Rourke is not expected to play this week against Washington because of a thumb injury in the Nebraska game,” Thamel posted on his X account. “He will return this season, but the timetable isn’t clear yet.”
The Daily Hoosier confirmed Thamel’s report via a source.
Later on Sunday IU released the following statement: “The Indiana football program announced on Sunday (Oct. 20) that redshirt senior quarterback Kurtis Rourke will be out an indefinite period of time with a thumb injury but is expected to return in 2024.”
Rourke, a contender for the 2024 Heisman Trophy, appeared to injure his throwing arm thumb while attempting a pass in the first half of a 56-7 IU win over Nebraska on Saturday. His thumb appeared to contact a Nebraska defender’s arm while following through on a pass. Blood could be seen on his thumb. Rourke played another series with the injury but did not play in the second half.
IU coach Curt Cignetti said after the game he was optimistic about Rourke’s prognosis and signaled removing Rourke from the game was more of a precautionary measure.
Rourke has completed 135 of 181 passes for 1,941 yards this year. He has 15 touchdowns and three interceptions.
Redshirt sophomore Tayven Jackson will fill in on Saturday as the starter vs. Washington.
A former 4-star recruit from Greenwood, Ind., Jackson has played in 13 career games. He has completed 93 of 150 passes (62%) for 1,176 yards, with five touchdowns and three interceptions. He started five games a season ago for the Hoosiers.
In the second half yesterday vs. Nebraska, Jackson was 7 of 8 for 91 yards with two scores. He also ran twice for 21 yards.
Indiana (7-0) will host Washington at Noon ET Saturday at Memorial Stadium (BTN).
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