Are we going to have another typical Iowa season, or is there room for something greater?
We typically know what to expect from Kirk Ferentz teams: Strong O-line, strong running game, and good tight ends. In 2017, this flipped on its head a bit. Sure, the O-line and tight ends were business as usual, but the running game was weak. Most shocking of all though is that Iowa might have *gasp* a game changing quarterback.
Prestige Ranking: 4 stars
Ferentz has turned Iowa into a team that no one can ever underestimate, as shown in the Ohio State game last year. Despite this, Iowa under Ferentz has not won the Big Ten since 2002. They will always be a steady program, but will likely leave fans wanting more, especially in such a weak division.
Last Season’s Record: 8-5 (5-4 Big Ten)
Projected Returning Starters: 13
Offense: 7
QB Nate Stanley, TE T.J. Hockenson, TE Noah Fant, RT Alaric Jackson, C Keegan Render, LT Tristan Wirfs, WR Nick Easley
For the first time in who-knows-how long, the Hawkeyes have a QB who may be more than just a game manager. Stanley took over the position and excelled, throwing 26 touchdowns to just 6 interceptions. He struggled with consistency at times, but he is already an upper-level Big Ten QB. If he can become a little more steady, he may have a claim to being the best QB in the conference.
The offense will be forced to replace stud running back Akrum Wadley, and will rely on two reserves from last season to fill the void. Toren Young and Ivory Kelly-Martin will need to step up after combining for 377 yards on the ground last season. Despite the lack of experience, it is hard to worry about a running back in an Iowa offense.
Tight end Noah Fant should give defenses headaches all year. The star TE scored eleven(!) touchdowns last year, and should act as a safety blanket. Combining him with leading returning receiver Nick Easley should give Stanley plenty of options when Iowa elects to air it out.
As with any Iowa team, their are some big boys up front. Losing James Daniels to the NFL will hurt, but three of the five starters on the O-line return, and the two new guys stepping in at left and right guard are a senior and junior, respectively.
Defense: 5
DE Anthony Nelson, DE Parker Hesse, CB Manny Rugamba, SS Amani Hooker, FS Jake Gervase
The defensive line features two great ends in Anthony Nelson and Parker Hesse. They should contribute to what has potential to be a strong line. Defensive tackle will be interesting to watch, especially with the Brady Reiff being suspended for the first game. One player to keep an eye is A.J. Epenesa at end, a former 5-star recruit who could have a big impact this season.
Of note, Iowa has no linebackers. This is actually barely an exaggeration, as they return next to no experience at the position. Most of the players in line for the starting job have played strictly special teams. It is hard to worry about the linebacker position at a school like Iowa, but it is still something to keep an eye on.
The secondary should be good. Yes, losing a player like Josh Jackson will always cause a bit of a drop off, but the pieces are in place to help out. Safety Amani Hooker looks like a star in the making, and should be a big play guys (just look at Ohio State). Jake Gervase is a senior, and leading returner in tackles and interceptions, and should function as a leader on the back end.
Special Teams: 1
K Miguel Recinos
Recinos returns after a junior season where he went 11-of-13 and should bring stability to the kicking position.
The battle for punter seems to be almost over, as Ryan Gersonde seemed to overtake last season’s starter Colten Rastetter in spring practice.
Tyroil Smoochie-Wallace All Name Team Member: Toks Akinribade
Key Losses: Akrum Wadley, Josey Jewell, Josh Jackson, James Daniels
The biggest loss hear is probably Jewell, who was a team leader and one of the best linebackers in the Big Ten. Jackson was one of the best cornerbacks in the nation. Akrum Wadley being a constant in the backfield will also be missed.
Five Year Recruiting Ranking (Bill Connelly): 41
At this point, we know what Iowa recruiting is like: some walk ons who become studs, 3-stars who play above their rankings, and a few high profile guys. This has worked for nearly 20 years, and there is little reason to believe it will change so long as Ferentz is in charge.
Alcohol Prediction for Fans by Season’s End: O’Douls
I get it Iowa fans, you probably like to drink a lot. However, after the recent arrest of D-lineman Brady Reiff, who mistook a COP CAR for an Uber, maybe you should just… cut down a bit. Do it for the players.
Outlook
The pieces are there for a Big Ten West title. The west will likely be competitive again soon, so Iowa needs to strike now. They avoid Ohio State, Michigan, and Michigan State out of the East, only having to travel to State College for a matchup with Penn State. They also luck out and host Wisconsin in what should be a tight game between the best two teams in the west. If Stanley continues to progress and the defense holds up, double digit wins could be on the table for the Hawkeyes.