Local family celebrates Indiana football

Clay Conner Is Just Getting Started In Bloomington

Clay Conner is a 2023 graduate of Boonville High School, but he's better known these days as number 36 for the Indiana Hoosiers football team. Playing defensive back as part of special teams, Conner has already had an impact on the Bloomington squad. Even as a redshirt, Conner has had quite the impact this season. Appearing in 11 games, Conner blocked a punt against Kennesaw State that led to IU's first touchdown of that game. Against in-state rival Indiana State, Conner posted his first collegiate career tackle. He also had two big tackles stemming from kickoff coverage in their big win against UCLA. This success is nothing new for the Pioneer graduate, who passed for 1,258 yards, rushed for 1,004 yards, and had 15 touchdowns, all in just his senior year.

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Conner Family Enjoying Historical Run

The Conner family has five children, all involved in sports. Originally, Clay had intentions of following his big brother to play at Saint Francis University in Fort Wayne, Indiana. However, after an all-star performance against Reitz High School, IU, and then coach Tom Allen came knocking on the Conners' door. Our partners at Eyewitness News recently spoke with the Conner family. Clay's father, Matt Conner, had this to say about his son's decision to attend IU and where they're going:

“When they made the offer, Clay was like, ‘Dad, I’ll never forgive myself if I don’t attempt this. Devin Mockobee set the standard of this being doable. Not that they're the same player, but just knowing it’s realistic. That hard work, effort, and God-given talent can go a long way. Who would’ve thought Indiana is playing Ohio State in the BIG10 championship? Indiana playing Alabama in the Rose Bowl? That’s not a common thing for Indiana football, but I see it carrying on.”

Clay and the Hoosier football squad will take on Big Ten Conference rivals, the Oregon Ducks, tonight in the Peach Bowl in Atlanta. Checkout this great story from Eyewitness News about the adventure the Conner family had traveling to the Rose Bowl.

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32 Football Hype Songs to Pump You Up for Game Day

Before you get ready to play, or cheer your team on to victory, you have to get in the right mindset. You have to get your heart racing and your adrenaline at full blast. This mix of rock, heavy metal, country, and hip-hop will do just that.

Before we move on, it should be noted many of the songs on this list contain not-safe-for-work-or-young-ears language, multiple times in several cases. So, if you choose to take a listen, maybe do it with headphones on or earbuds in. However you listen, just make sure you turn it way up.

Gallery Credit: Ryan O'Bryan