Sources – Indiana’s Rourke undergoes thumb surgery, prognosis improved

The timeline for the return of injured Indiana quarterback Curtis Rourke is coming into focus, as sources told ESPN that Rourke’s “prognosis has improved” following surgery on his injured right thumb on Monday.

The successful surgery provided some clarity on a possible return, including optimism that he could return for Indiana’s game at Michigan State on Nov. 2. Rourke remains questionable for No. 13 Indiana’s home game against Washington on Saturday.

Rourke led Indiana to a historic 7-0 start and dramatically catapulted them into the conversation surrounding the College Football Playoff.

The school announced that Rourke is out “indefinitely” after injuring his thumb in Saturday’s blowout win over Nebraska. Rourke did not return for the second half of the 56-7 win after hitting his hand on the helmet of a Nebraska defender.

Indiana announced Monday that Rourke is expected to return at some point during the 2024 regular season. And now there’s optimism for Michigan State, as IU closes with the Spartans, hosts Michigan, plays at Ohio State and then hosts rival Purdue to close out the season.

Rourke was one of the breakout stars of the 2024 season, entering the Heisman Trophy race as Indiana emerged as the biggest surprise of the year.

Rourke, a transfer from Ohio who is in his sixth year of college football, completed 74.6% of his passes in his first year at IU. He threw 15 touchdowns, three interceptions and led an offense that ranked No. 1 nationally in scoring offense with 48.7 points per game.

Rourke transferred to Indiana to play for first-year coach Curt Cignetti, one of 27 transfers who completely overturned the concept of Indiana football. IU went 3-9 last year.

Overall, Indiana ranks No. 5 in the nation in total offense (512.7 yards per game) and third-down conversion percentage (54.2%).

Indiana is 7-0 for the first time since 1967. Backup quarterback Teven Jackson is expected to start for Indiana against Washington, the redshirt sophomore’s sixth career start.