ESPN.com's Big Ten blogger Adam Rittenberg dished out his September team and individual awards earlier this evening.
Rittenberg dubbed the Hawkeyes as the conference's team of the month. According to the blogger, Iowa's 21-10 win over then-No. 5 Penn State Sept. 26 threw the Hawks into the Big Ten title chase.
Unfortunately, Iowa was left out of the rest of the awards.
Was Michigan against Notre Dame really the best game of September in the Big Ten? I'm not saying Iowa-Penn State was better than Ohio State and USC, but I am saying it was a better game than Michigan-Notre Dame. I like defensive struggles, though. Maybe the only thing I disagreed with.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Ballard's big hit against Penn State
Watch Iowa DT Christian Ballard (46) nail Penn State's right tackle, Nerraw McCormack (72), on Pat Angerer's fourth quarter interception. It happens 2:00 into the highlights. It's in the top middle of the screen as Angerer streaks down the sideline at the bottom.
Injury updates for Arkansas State
Iowa star left tackle Bryan Bulaga has been medically cleared to play this weekend against Arkansas State, according to hawkeyesports.com.
The Hawks have been without the preseason All-American since their week one triumph over Northern Iowa due to a disclosed illness.
Redshirt freshman Riley Reiff has filled in admirably for Bulaga in his first three career starts. Reiff's experience could pay off down the road if Bulaga were to sit out again.
Senior tight end Tony Moeaki is still questionable.
The Hawks have been without the preseason All-American since their week one triumph over Northern Iowa due to a disclosed illness.
Redshirt freshman Riley Reiff has filled in admirably for Bulaga in his first three career starts. Reiff's experience could pay off down the road if Bulaga were to sit out again.
Senior tight end Tony Moeaki is still questionable.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
News and notes from week four
What a great game it was last night. The Hawks simply own Penn State. I get the feeling that the media will talk about how Penn State just wasn't themselves and Iowa will get zero credit for its performance - and that's fine, because the Hawks play better when they're disrespected, anyway. But before long, people are going to have to take notice of the Black-and-Gold.
Without further adieu, here's the breakdown of the game.
And the game ball goes to...: Adrian Clayborn. Clayborn's blocked punt turned touchdown return broke the game open for the Hawks in the early stages of the fourth quarter. Trailing 10-5, Clayborn burst through the left side of Penn State's o-line and stuffed the kick then proceeded to pick it up and rumble 35 yards untouched into the endzone. Momentum had evaded the Hawkeyes for most of the game, but Clayborn's big play broke open the flood gates on the Nits.
On top of the huge blocked kick-touchdown, Clayborn also racked up a pair of tackles and seemed to be playing, "let's meet at the quarterback," on every play with Broderick Binns. Daryll Clark - the Big Ten's so-called best overall quarterback - spent most of the game on the run or on the ground. The Big Ten Network said it best after the game, "if Daryll Clark never sees Iowa again, that will be just fine with him."
Tip of the cap: to the Hawkeyes' defense. Pat Angerer: stud (14 tackles, a deflected pass, a forced fumble and an INT). A.J. Edds: stud (six tackles and the game-ending INT). Karl Klug: stud (six tackles, two tackles-for-loss and a fumble recovery). Binns: stud (eight tackles, 2.5 TFL and a forced fumble). Clayborn: player of the game. Did I miss anyone?
Also to Ricky Stanzi. I've been picking on "pretty Ricky" so far this season because of his slow starts. No complaints here this week, Rick. You played like a champ in a hostile environment and your receivers dropped six passes.
Wag of the finger: to the Iowa receivers. I'll keep it short: CATCH! THE! BALL!
Final thoughts: the win vaulted Iowa to No. 13 in the AP Poll and No. 17 in the USA Today Poll. Ferentz is 7-2 against Penn State, 4-1 at Beaver Stadium. The Hawks' defense is about as good as it gets. The second quarter saw the Hawks out-gain the Nits 124 to minus-6.
Next week: The Hawks host Arkansas State (1-2). Kickoff is set for 11:00 a.m. in Kinnick Stadium. Iowa will meet the Red Wolves for the first time in school history. It will also be Iowa's first game against a team from the Sun Belt conference.
Without further adieu, here's the breakdown of the game.
And the game ball goes to...: Adrian Clayborn. Clayborn's blocked punt turned touchdown return broke the game open for the Hawks in the early stages of the fourth quarter. Trailing 10-5, Clayborn burst through the left side of Penn State's o-line and stuffed the kick then proceeded to pick it up and rumble 35 yards untouched into the endzone. Momentum had evaded the Hawkeyes for most of the game, but Clayborn's big play broke open the flood gates on the Nits.
On top of the huge blocked kick-touchdown, Clayborn also racked up a pair of tackles and seemed to be playing, "let's meet at the quarterback," on every play with Broderick Binns. Daryll Clark - the Big Ten's so-called best overall quarterback - spent most of the game on the run or on the ground. The Big Ten Network said it best after the game, "if Daryll Clark never sees Iowa again, that will be just fine with him."
Tip of the cap: to the Hawkeyes' defense. Pat Angerer: stud (14 tackles, a deflected pass, a forced fumble and an INT). A.J. Edds: stud (six tackles and the game-ending INT). Karl Klug: stud (six tackles, two tackles-for-loss and a fumble recovery). Binns: stud (eight tackles, 2.5 TFL and a forced fumble). Clayborn: player of the game. Did I miss anyone?
Also to Ricky Stanzi. I've been picking on "pretty Ricky" so far this season because of his slow starts. No complaints here this week, Rick. You played like a champ in a hostile environment and your receivers dropped six passes.
Wag of the finger: to the Iowa receivers. I'll keep it short: CATCH! THE! BALL!
Final thoughts: the win vaulted Iowa to No. 13 in the AP Poll and No. 17 in the USA Today Poll. Ferentz is 7-2 against Penn State, 4-1 at Beaver Stadium. The Hawks' defense is about as good as it gets. The second quarter saw the Hawks out-gain the Nits 124 to minus-6.
Next week: The Hawks host Arkansas State (1-2). Kickoff is set for 11:00 a.m. in Kinnick Stadium. Iowa will meet the Red Wolves for the first time in school history. It will also be Iowa's first game against a team from the Sun Belt conference.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Iowa vs. Penn State Pre-Game
Iowa (3-0) vs. No. 5 Penn State (3-0)
Kickoff: 7 p.m., Beaver Stadium
TV/Radio: ABC, Big Ten Network, AM 800 KXIC
Line: Penn State, +10 (espn.com)
What to watch for
Penn State has a revenge factor on the unbeaten Hawkeyes after Iowa sniped the Nittany Lions last year in Kinnick Stadium, 24-23. The game has garnered national attention, attracting ESPN's College GameDay and a prime-time kick off on ABC. The Penn State students have declared the game a "white-out."
Key Stats
Kirk Ferentz is 6-2 against Penn State, 3-1 at Beaver Stadium. The only starting QB to lose a game in Happy Valley will likely forever remain nameless in and around Iowa City (Jake Christensen). In Iowa's three wins over the Nits, two have come in over time. The other came on a 6-4 defensive struggle in 2005.
The consensus in the college football community is that Penn State at home is a lock, particularly with revenge on their minds. The ESPN.com message boards have been calling for a blow out by the Nits, but Iowa rarely gets blown out because of their stifling defense. The Hawks lead the Big Ten with six interceptions, four by sophomore safety Tyler Sash.
The ground game is going to be the decider for both teams. There is, however, no distinct difference between Iowa's running game and Penn State's.
Iowa's leading rusher redshirt freshman Adam Robinson, has rushed for 233 yards and three touchdowns on 45 carries in the Hawks' three wins.
Penn State's Evan Royster has 236 yards and three touchdowns on 45 carries. 134 of those yards, however, came last week against lowly Temple.
If Iowa controls the line of scrimmage, they win.
Prediction
The weather is sure to play a part in the outcome of this game. With temperatures in the mid-50s and a 70 percent chance of rain, I'm thinking it's going to be a low scoring affair. In sloppy, nasty games, the defense wins every time and Iowa has the better defense. The Hawks overcome some early mental errors, the defense keeps it close and Daniel Murray smites the Nits again, this time in their house.
Iowa 17, Penn State 16
Kickoff: 7 p.m., Beaver Stadium
TV/Radio: ABC, Big Ten Network, AM 800 KXIC
Line: Penn State, +10 (espn.com)
What to watch for
Penn State has a revenge factor on the unbeaten Hawkeyes after Iowa sniped the Nittany Lions last year in Kinnick Stadium, 24-23. The game has garnered national attention, attracting ESPN's College GameDay and a prime-time kick off on ABC. The Penn State students have declared the game a "white-out."
Key Stats
Kirk Ferentz is 6-2 against Penn State, 3-1 at Beaver Stadium. The only starting QB to lose a game in Happy Valley will likely forever remain nameless in and around Iowa City (Jake Christensen). In Iowa's three wins over the Nits, two have come in over time. The other came on a 6-4 defensive struggle in 2005.
The consensus in the college football community is that Penn State at home is a lock, particularly with revenge on their minds. The ESPN.com message boards have been calling for a blow out by the Nits, but Iowa rarely gets blown out because of their stifling defense. The Hawks lead the Big Ten with six interceptions, four by sophomore safety Tyler Sash.
The ground game is going to be the decider for both teams. There is, however, no distinct difference between Iowa's running game and Penn State's.
Iowa's leading rusher redshirt freshman Adam Robinson, has rushed for 233 yards and three touchdowns on 45 carries in the Hawks' three wins.
Penn State's Evan Royster has 236 yards and three touchdowns on 45 carries. 134 of those yards, however, came last week against lowly Temple.
If Iowa controls the line of scrimmage, they win.
Prediction
The weather is sure to play a part in the outcome of this game. With temperatures in the mid-50s and a 70 percent chance of rain, I'm thinking it's going to be a low scoring affair. In sloppy, nasty games, the defense wins every time and Iowa has the better defense. The Hawks overcome some early mental errors, the defense keeps it close and Daniel Murray smites the Nits again, this time in their house.
Iowa 17, Penn State 16
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Injury updates
Kirk Ferentz announced this week on his radio show left tackle Bryan Bulaga will not play this weekend at Penn State.
Senior tight end Tony Moeaki and junior wide out Derrell Johnson-Koulianos are still questionable, according to Ferentz.
On the Nittany Lions' injury front, linebacker Sean Lee is not expected to play according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Adam Robinson is slated as the starting running back for the Hawkeyes. Robinson rushed for a career-high 101 yards and two touchdowns last week in Iowa's 27-17 win over Arizona.
Senior tight end Tony Moeaki and junior wide out Derrell Johnson-Koulianos are still questionable, according to Ferentz.
On the Nittany Lions' injury front, linebacker Sean Lee is not expected to play according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Adam Robinson is slated as the starting running back for the Hawkeyes. Robinson rushed for a career-high 101 yards and two touchdowns last week in Iowa's 27-17 win over Arizona.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Hawkeye students showing yellow streak
So far this week, just from walking around on campus, it appears the general consensus among Iowa students is that the Hawks are wandering blindly into a, “Lion’s den,” so to speak. And the likelihood of the football team coming out of Beaver Stadium on Saturday night victorious is non-existent.
"Oh man, Penn State is going to be so pissed from last year," and, "they're going to be out for blood after what happened last year."
A word to the wise:
Forget about what happened last year. Coach Ferentz and the football team have. Do you think they're sitting around watching last year's game film, patting each other on the back while sipping brandy and smoking cigars like a bunch of good ol' boys? I don't think so.
I would venture to guess that the Hawks are probably hitting it pretty hard this week on the practice field and in the weight room.
The will to seek revenge is stronger than the action of actually getting revenge. Vengeance is driven by anger and hostility. Anger makes it hard to concentrate on the task at hand. Penn State has this notion of revenge going for them, yes. But how far will it actually take them?
Captain Kirk is 6-2 as Iowa's head coach against the Nittany Lions. His only loss at Beaver Stadium came in 2007 when an unnamed quarterback (Jake Christensen) led an ineffective offense into a death trap. And as excited as the Nittany Lions are at a chance to prove last year's upset in Iowa City was a fluke, the Hawkeyes are probably equally, if not more excited to get on that field Saturday to prove just the opposite is true.
Why?
Because they know what's at stake. A 4-0 record, a win against a top-five team, a game in front of a national audience. But perhaps most importantly, Iowa will be playing to get respect. This is such a huge match-up that ESPN chose to send College GameDay to Happy Valley rather than to Blacksburg, Vir., for the annual Miami-Virginia Tech showdown, a match-up of two ranked teams.
Believe me, the Hawkeyes know what the magnitude of what they're up against. Have some confidence in your team, Hawk fans!
"Oh man, Penn State is going to be so pissed from last year," and, "they're going to be out for blood after what happened last year."
A word to the wise:
Forget about what happened last year. Coach Ferentz and the football team have. Do you think they're sitting around watching last year's game film, patting each other on the back while sipping brandy and smoking cigars like a bunch of good ol' boys? I don't think so.
I would venture to guess that the Hawks are probably hitting it pretty hard this week on the practice field and in the weight room.
The will to seek revenge is stronger than the action of actually getting revenge. Vengeance is driven by anger and hostility. Anger makes it hard to concentrate on the task at hand. Penn State has this notion of revenge going for them, yes. But how far will it actually take them?
Captain Kirk is 6-2 as Iowa's head coach against the Nittany Lions. His only loss at Beaver Stadium came in 2007 when an unnamed quarterback (Jake Christensen) led an ineffective offense into a death trap. And as excited as the Nittany Lions are at a chance to prove last year's upset in Iowa City was a fluke, the Hawkeyes are probably equally, if not more excited to get on that field Saturday to prove just the opposite is true.
Why?
Because they know what's at stake. A 4-0 record, a win against a top-five team, a game in front of a national audience. But perhaps most importantly, Iowa will be playing to get respect. This is such a huge match-up that ESPN chose to send College GameDay to Happy Valley rather than to Blacksburg, Vir., for the annual Miami-Virginia Tech showdown, a match-up of two ranked teams.
Believe me, the Hawkeyes know what the magnitude of what they're up against. Have some confidence in your team, Hawk fans!
Sunday, September 20, 2009
News and notes from week three
Iowa played like I thought they would this week - tough. Arizona wanted to have a track meet but the Hawkeyes wanted to have a street fight. How about that prediction score? Not too shabby. The Hawks remain unranked after the 27-17 win over the Wildcats. Hopefully they will continue to feel salty and disrespected.
And the game ball goes to...: Adam Robinson. The redshirt freshman from Des Moines turned in his first 100-yard performance of his collegiate career, racking up 101 yards and two touchdowns on 18 carries. Robinson continues to lead the team in rushing, pushing his season totals to 233 yards on 45 carries with three touchdowns.
Tip of the cap: to defensive end Adrian Clayborn. Clayborn was a flat-out beast on Saturday. At one point in the game, I remember saying,"when you run down a running back as a D-End, you're doing something right." Clayborn had six tackles, a forced fumble and three QB hurries.
Wag of the finger: to Ricky Stanzi, again. Once again, I had to dig to find a scape goat and Stanzi seemed like the only weak point on Saturday. The junior signal caller looked good, hooking up on 20-of-32 passes for 205 yards despite the absence of his two favorite targets - DJK and Tony Moeaki. Stanzi, however, threw an interception toward the end of the first quarter which was returned by Arizona DB Trevin Wade 38 yards for a touchdown, tying the score at 7-7. The pass looked like a duck out of his hand and Wade was all over it. Stanzi has to be mistake-free next weekend if the Hawks want to win a tough road game.
Final thoughts: The defense looked awesome. Could it be possible this year's defense is as good, if not better than last year's - even without King and Kroul? Iowa looked every bit like the "bullies of the Big Ten," as the Hawks had their way against Arizona's run-happy offense. Nic Grigsby entered Kinnick Stadium as the second-leading rusher in the nation. But the Arizona junior was limited to his fewest touches of the season (14) as the Iowa defense seemed to be everywhere. Grigsby rushed for 75 yards on 11 carries - 58 of which came on one run in the second quarter; Arizona was held to a field goal from the Iowa one-yard line. Oh yeah, and Mr. Interception (Tyler Sash) struck again this week.
Also, congrats to punter Ryan Donahue on being named Big Ten special teams co-player of the week. Donahue averaged 51 yards on five punts against Arizona. He had four kicks of fifty yards or more with a long of 62 yards. He has had at least one punt over 50 yards in 13 of Iowa's last 15 games.
Next week: The Hawks travel to University Park, Penn., to tangle with No. 5 Penn State. The game will be nationally televised on ABC at 7 p.m.
Kirk Ferentz is 6-2 as the Iowa head coach against the Nittany Lions, including a 3-1 record at Beaver Stadium. Iowa took the previous meeting in last year's breath taking 24-23 win over the Nittany Lions. Penn State will be out for revenge as the 2008 game cost the Nittany Lions a shot at the national title.
And the game ball goes to...: Adam Robinson. The redshirt freshman from Des Moines turned in his first 100-yard performance of his collegiate career, racking up 101 yards and two touchdowns on 18 carries. Robinson continues to lead the team in rushing, pushing his season totals to 233 yards on 45 carries with three touchdowns.
Tip of the cap: to defensive end Adrian Clayborn. Clayborn was a flat-out beast on Saturday. At one point in the game, I remember saying,"when you run down a running back as a D-End, you're doing something right." Clayborn had six tackles, a forced fumble and three QB hurries.
Wag of the finger: to Ricky Stanzi, again. Once again, I had to dig to find a scape goat and Stanzi seemed like the only weak point on Saturday. The junior signal caller looked good, hooking up on 20-of-32 passes for 205 yards despite the absence of his two favorite targets - DJK and Tony Moeaki. Stanzi, however, threw an interception toward the end of the first quarter which was returned by Arizona DB Trevin Wade 38 yards for a touchdown, tying the score at 7-7. The pass looked like a duck out of his hand and Wade was all over it. Stanzi has to be mistake-free next weekend if the Hawks want to win a tough road game.
Final thoughts: The defense looked awesome. Could it be possible this year's defense is as good, if not better than last year's - even without King and Kroul? Iowa looked every bit like the "bullies of the Big Ten," as the Hawks had their way against Arizona's run-happy offense. Nic Grigsby entered Kinnick Stadium as the second-leading rusher in the nation. But the Arizona junior was limited to his fewest touches of the season (14) as the Iowa defense seemed to be everywhere. Grigsby rushed for 75 yards on 11 carries - 58 of which came on one run in the second quarter; Arizona was held to a field goal from the Iowa one-yard line. Oh yeah, and Mr. Interception (Tyler Sash) struck again this week.
Also, congrats to punter Ryan Donahue on being named Big Ten special teams co-player of the week. Donahue averaged 51 yards on five punts against Arizona. He had four kicks of fifty yards or more with a long of 62 yards. He has had at least one punt over 50 yards in 13 of Iowa's last 15 games.
Next week: The Hawks travel to University Park, Penn., to tangle with No. 5 Penn State. The game will be nationally televised on ABC at 7 p.m.
Kirk Ferentz is 6-2 as the Iowa head coach against the Nittany Lions, including a 3-1 record at Beaver Stadium. Iowa took the previous meeting in last year's breath taking 24-23 win over the Nittany Lions. Penn State will be out for revenge as the 2008 game cost the Nittany Lions a shot at the national title.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Iowa vs. Arizona Pre-Game
Iowa (2-0) vs. Arizona (2-0)
Kickoff: 2:30 p.m., Kinnick Stadium
TV/Radio: ABC (regionally), ESPN2, AM 800 KXIC
Line: Iowa, +4 (espn.com)
What to watch for
Arizona brings the nation's second leading rusher (Nic Grigsby) into what is sure to be a rowdy, raucous Kinnick Stadium. Grigsby has 325 yards and three touchdowns on 38 carries in two games. His 8.6 yards per carry is seventh in the nation and his 94-yard dash against Northern Arizona (of the FBS) is the second longest rush of the season.
The Wildcats' spread offense is a run-based offense as quarterback Matt Scott has added 131 yards on 16 carries. Scott, however, will be making his first start on the road of his career.
Offensively, Iowa has found its legs in the running game in a pair of freshman running backs. Adam Robinson is the leading rusher on the team with 132 yards and a touchdown on 27 carries. Robinson is listed as the starter.
His back-up is true freshman Brandon Wegher. Wegher rushed for 101 yards and a touchdown on 15 carries last week against Iowa State. The Sioux City Heelan-product is generating a lot of buzz around Iowa City.
Look for Iowa quarterback Ricky Stanzi to try to get on a roll early. In Iowa's games against Northern Iowa and Iowa State, Stanzi has twice had trouble with his command in the first half. Stanzi is 40-68 439 yards and five touchdowns so far this season.
Key Stats
It will be a match-up of strength against strength.
Arizona is fifth in the nation with 611 rushing yards in two games (305.5 per game).'
Iowa gives has given up 274 total rushing yards in the first two games (190 vs. Iowa State, 84 against UNI). Traditionally, Iowa's rush defense is as stingy as a Republican-controlled congress.
If Iowa can score 30 points, they will win. The Hawks are 41-1 since 2001 when they score 30+.
Prediction
I like Iowa at home, especially against a young quarterback.
Iowa 31, Arizona 17
Kickoff: 2:30 p.m., Kinnick Stadium
TV/Radio: ABC (regionally), ESPN2, AM 800 KXIC
Line: Iowa, +4 (espn.com)
What to watch for
Arizona brings the nation's second leading rusher (Nic Grigsby) into what is sure to be a rowdy, raucous Kinnick Stadium. Grigsby has 325 yards and three touchdowns on 38 carries in two games. His 8.6 yards per carry is seventh in the nation and his 94-yard dash against Northern Arizona (of the FBS) is the second longest rush of the season.
The Wildcats' spread offense is a run-based offense as quarterback Matt Scott has added 131 yards on 16 carries. Scott, however, will be making his first start on the road of his career.
Offensively, Iowa has found its legs in the running game in a pair of freshman running backs. Adam Robinson is the leading rusher on the team with 132 yards and a touchdown on 27 carries. Robinson is listed as the starter.
His back-up is true freshman Brandon Wegher. Wegher rushed for 101 yards and a touchdown on 15 carries last week against Iowa State. The Sioux City Heelan-product is generating a lot of buzz around Iowa City.
Look for Iowa quarterback Ricky Stanzi to try to get on a roll early. In Iowa's games against Northern Iowa and Iowa State, Stanzi has twice had trouble with his command in the first half. Stanzi is 40-68 439 yards and five touchdowns so far this season.
Key Stats
It will be a match-up of strength against strength.
Arizona is fifth in the nation with 611 rushing yards in two games (305.5 per game).'
Iowa gives has given up 274 total rushing yards in the first two games (190 vs. Iowa State, 84 against UNI). Traditionally, Iowa's rush defense is as stingy as a Republican-controlled congress.
If Iowa can score 30 points, they will win. The Hawks are 41-1 since 2001 when they score 30+.
Prediction
I like Iowa at home, especially against a young quarterback.
Iowa 31, Arizona 17
Moeaki dealing with another injury?
There are rumors floating around that senior tight end Tony Moeaki may not play in tomorrow's game against the Arizona Wildcats.
Word on the street is the Wheaton, Ill.-native is nursing a high ankle sprain.
Arizona will also be without its star tight end, Rob Gronkowski, who is nursing a sore back.
The preseason All-American from Amherst, N.Y., was on the Mackey Award (best tight end) watch list to start the season. His 47 catches, 672 yards and 10 touchdowns earned him first-team All-Pac 10 honors in 2008.
Check back later this afternoon for my final thoughts and predictions for tomorrow's game.
Word on the street is the Wheaton, Ill.-native is nursing a high ankle sprain.
Arizona will also be without its star tight end, Rob Gronkowski, who is nursing a sore back.
The preseason All-American from Amherst, N.Y., was on the Mackey Award (best tight end) watch list to start the season. His 47 catches, 672 yards and 10 touchdowns earned him first-team All-Pac 10 honors in 2008.
Check back later this afternoon for my final thoughts and predictions for tomorrow's game.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Hawkeyes gear up for Arizona
Kirk Ferentz held his annual press conference yesterday.
Bryan Bulaga did not practice yesterday and it appears he will be a late week or even a game-time decision. The preseason All-American did not play last Saturday against Iowa State but is listed as a starter for the Arizona game.
"We'll know tomorrow and more on Thursday and right on through," Ferentz said. "He had an illness and they're doing checks right now. It's just a matter of meeting certain levels and getting OK's to move forward." (hawkeyesports.com)
Bulaga's absence went virtually unnoticed against the Cyclones as Iowa racked up 426 total yards - 191 of which came on the ground - in the 35-3 drubbing of ISU.
Cornerback Greg Castillo is also listed as day-to-day.
As for preparing for the Wildcats, Ferentz and defensive coordinator Norm Parker have probably lost sleep this week trying to prepare for Arizona running back Nic Grigsby.
Grigsby, the nation's second-leading rusher, has racked up 325 yards on just 38 carries (an average of 8.6 yards per carry) in the Wildcats' first two games.
Arizona quarterback Matt Scott has been solid this year, as well. The sophomore signal caller from Corona, Calif., has connected on 33-of-50 passes for 352 yards and a touchdown. Scott is also second on the team in rushing, tallying 131 yards on 16 carries. He has, however, thrown two interceptions and Saturday will be his first career start on the road.
Bryan Bulaga did not practice yesterday and it appears he will be a late week or even a game-time decision. The preseason All-American did not play last Saturday against Iowa State but is listed as a starter for the Arizona game.
"We'll know tomorrow and more on Thursday and right on through," Ferentz said. "He had an illness and they're doing checks right now. It's just a matter of meeting certain levels and getting OK's to move forward." (hawkeyesports.com)
Bulaga's absence went virtually unnoticed against the Cyclones as Iowa racked up 426 total yards - 191 of which came on the ground - in the 35-3 drubbing of ISU.
Cornerback Greg Castillo is also listed as day-to-day.
As for preparing for the Wildcats, Ferentz and defensive coordinator Norm Parker have probably lost sleep this week trying to prepare for Arizona running back Nic Grigsby.
Grigsby, the nation's second-leading rusher, has racked up 325 yards on just 38 carries (an average of 8.6 yards per carry) in the Wildcats' first two games.
Arizona quarterback Matt Scott has been solid this year, as well. The sophomore signal caller from Corona, Calif., has connected on 33-of-50 passes for 352 yards and a touchdown. Scott is also second on the team in rushing, tallying 131 yards on 16 carries. He has, however, thrown two interceptions and Saturday will be his first career start on the road.
Monday, September 14, 2009
News and notes from week two
It was a lot easier to sleep on Saturday after Iowa put the Cyclones in their place, in their house.
And the game ball goes to...: sophomore safety Tyler Sash who had 10 tackles, a forced fumble and picked off Iowa State quarterback Austen Arnaud on three separate occasions.
Honestly, the entire defense could have gotten the game ball, but Sash had the best individual performance. Despite allowing ISU running back Alexander Robinson to rush for 100 yards, Iowa forced six turnovers and limited the Cyclones to 303 total yards.
Iowa's pass defense was stellar. Arnaud - when he wasn't running for his life - connected on just 10-of-22 passes for 79 yards and four interceptions. He was benched in the third quarter for back-up Jerome Tiller. Tiller struggled as well, going 3-9 for 34 yards and an interception.
Tip of the cap: to freshman running back Brandon Wegher. Wegher, who didn't get to see the field in week one, blew up for the Hawkeyes in the second half rushing for 101 yards on 15 carries. Wegher scored his first collegiate touchdown to cap a four play, 58 yard drive which started after Arnaud threw his fourth and final interception of the day with six minutes to go in the third quarter.
Wegher didn't have much trouble finding room to run as the offensive line looked in top-form, despite the absence of Brian Bulaga. The true freshman also displayed some of the elusiveness which earned him player of the game honors in last year's Iowa 3A state championship game as he dodged ISU defenders left and right.
Wag of the finger: to QB Ricky Stanzi. It was hard to find someone to pick on after such a display of domination, but Stanzi had to have had the weakest performance on Saturday. Either the junior was really, really excited to be playing the Cyclones or he was just off the mark as several passes sailed over the heads of open receivers and, on two occasions, into the arms of ISU safety David Sims.
One play that stands out came mid-way through the second quarter when Stanzi completely missed a wide open Derrell Johnson-Koulianous. Had the two connected, DJK probably would've housed it - he was that open.
Stanzi finished 18-34 for 197 yards, a career-high four touchdowns and two interceptions. The Hawkeye QB did manage to connect with 10 different targets on the day, including a pair of passes to freshman receiver Keenan Davis - who also scored his first collegiate touchdown Saturday in Ames.
Final thoughts: It was good to finally win Ames again, a place that has been nothing but headaches for the last decade. It was also good to see Iowa play with a little killer instinct. For example, Iowa didn't have to leave the first team offense in during the fourth quarter. Leading 28-3 with the Cyclones' starting quarterback on the bench, Iowa could've just sat on its lead and played scrub football. But they didn't. Very atypical for a Kirk Ferentz team.
Next week: The Hawks host Arizona (2-0). Kickoff at 2:30 on ABC. Arizona leads the all-time series, 6-5. The Wildcats also won the most recent match-up (1998), 35-11, in Tucson.
And the game ball goes to...: sophomore safety Tyler Sash who had 10 tackles, a forced fumble and picked off Iowa State quarterback Austen Arnaud on three separate occasions.
Honestly, the entire defense could have gotten the game ball, but Sash had the best individual performance. Despite allowing ISU running back Alexander Robinson to rush for 100 yards, Iowa forced six turnovers and limited the Cyclones to 303 total yards.
Iowa's pass defense was stellar. Arnaud - when he wasn't running for his life - connected on just 10-of-22 passes for 79 yards and four interceptions. He was benched in the third quarter for back-up Jerome Tiller. Tiller struggled as well, going 3-9 for 34 yards and an interception.
Tip of the cap: to freshman running back Brandon Wegher. Wegher, who didn't get to see the field in week one, blew up for the Hawkeyes in the second half rushing for 101 yards on 15 carries. Wegher scored his first collegiate touchdown to cap a four play, 58 yard drive which started after Arnaud threw his fourth and final interception of the day with six minutes to go in the third quarter.
Wegher didn't have much trouble finding room to run as the offensive line looked in top-form, despite the absence of Brian Bulaga. The true freshman also displayed some of the elusiveness which earned him player of the game honors in last year's Iowa 3A state championship game as he dodged ISU defenders left and right.
Wag of the finger: to QB Ricky Stanzi. It was hard to find someone to pick on after such a display of domination, but Stanzi had to have had the weakest performance on Saturday. Either the junior was really, really excited to be playing the Cyclones or he was just off the mark as several passes sailed over the heads of open receivers and, on two occasions, into the arms of ISU safety David Sims.
One play that stands out came mid-way through the second quarter when Stanzi completely missed a wide open Derrell Johnson-Koulianous. Had the two connected, DJK probably would've housed it - he was that open.
Stanzi finished 18-34 for 197 yards, a career-high four touchdowns and two interceptions. The Hawkeye QB did manage to connect with 10 different targets on the day, including a pair of passes to freshman receiver Keenan Davis - who also scored his first collegiate touchdown Saturday in Ames.
Final thoughts: It was good to finally win Ames again, a place that has been nothing but headaches for the last decade. It was also good to see Iowa play with a little killer instinct. For example, Iowa didn't have to leave the first team offense in during the fourth quarter. Leading 28-3 with the Cyclones' starting quarterback on the bench, Iowa could've just sat on its lead and played scrub football. But they didn't. Very atypical for a Kirk Ferentz team.
Next week: The Hawks host Arizona (2-0). Kickoff at 2:30 on ABC. Arizona leads the all-time series, 6-5. The Wildcats also won the most recent match-up (1998), 35-11, in Tucson.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
The Short List
Apologies for not getting this up before now, Hawk fans.
No. 3, 1990 - Iowa 45, Iowa State 35
Danan Hughes, Nick Bell and company put up big points on the Cyclones in Kinnick Stadium as the Hawks improved their season record to 2-0 after a 63-10 trouncing of Cincinnati in the opener.
Merton Hanks captained the defense that would lead Iowa to an 8-3 (6-2 in the Big Ten) record and a Rose Bowl berth against Mark Brunell and the Washington Huskies.
No. 2, 2008 - Iowa 17, Iowa State 5
It was a sloppy, disgusting day and the football reflected that.
Iowa led 3-0 at halftime, and the game went into the fourth quarter tied, 3-3. Ricky Stanzi and Jake Christensen continued to ride the quarterback carousel as head coach Kirk Ferentz remained undecided on a weekly starter.
But behind Shonn Greene's 123 yard, one touchdown-performance and a huge punt return touchodown by Andy Brodell, the Hawks prevailed in Iowa City to regain possession of the Cy-Hawk Trophy.
No. 1, 2003 - Iowa 40, Iowa State 21
This was an obvious choice.
It was Kirk Ferentz's first win against the Cyclones after starting out 0-4. It ended a five game losing streak in the series for the Hawkeyes. Until today, it was his only win in Ames.
The Hawkeyes were led by quarterback Nathan Chandler's 72 passing yards and 53 rushing yards. Fred Russell added 87 yards and a touchdown on the ground.
Iowa's defense, however, was the story of the game.
Chad Greenway had 17 tackles, Abdul Hodge added 15 - including three tackles for loss - and a forced fumble. Matt Roth also had three tackles for loss and a sack. Grant Steen had an interception and a fumble recovery on top of six tackles as the Hawkeyes harassed Cyclone quarterback Austin Flynn all day.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
No. 4, 1979 - Iowa 30, Iowa State 14
From the first meeting in 1894 until 1934, the Hawkeyes and the Cyclones had renewed their dislike for each other on almost a yearly basis. The Hawks dominated the early years of the rivalry, winning 16 of the 24 contests.
It would be over four decades before the teams squared off again.
The 1950s saw the Hawkeyes claim back-to-back Rose Bowl championships under legendary coach Forest Evashevski. The Hawks also claimed a share of the 1958 national title.
The '60s and '70s, however, were hard times for Hawk fans as the team failed to field a team with a winning record for 17 seasons.
But all of that changed in 1979 when the Black-and-Gold hired a man by the name of Hayden Fry from northern Texas. Fry said he came to Iowa for one thing: to win.
After the Hawkeyes and Cyclones renewed their rivalry in 1977, Fry wasted little time making his mark on the now-annual showdown.
Similar to Auburn head coach Gene Chizik, Fry captured victory in his very first Cy-Hawk battle, leading the Hawks to a 30-14 win in Kinnick Stadium.
Despite losing the next three meetings, Fry went on to lead the Hawks to a series record 15 straight wins over the Cyclones. The legendary Iowa coach finished his career with a record of 16-4 against Iowa State.
It would be over four decades before the teams squared off again.
The 1950s saw the Hawkeyes claim back-to-back Rose Bowl championships under legendary coach Forest Evashevski. The Hawks also claimed a share of the 1958 national title.
The '60s and '70s, however, were hard times for Hawk fans as the team failed to field a team with a winning record for 17 seasons.
But all of that changed in 1979 when the Black-and-Gold hired a man by the name of Hayden Fry from northern Texas. Fry said he came to Iowa for one thing: to win.
After the Hawkeyes and Cyclones renewed their rivalry in 1977, Fry wasted little time making his mark on the now-annual showdown.
Similar to Auburn head coach Gene Chizik, Fry captured victory in his very first Cy-Hawk battle, leading the Hawks to a 30-14 win in Kinnick Stadium.
Despite losing the next three meetings, Fry went on to lead the Hawks to a series record 15 straight wins over the Cyclones. The legendary Iowa coach finished his career with a record of 16-4 against Iowa State.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
No. 5, 1899 - Iowa 5, Iowa State 0
This is the first installment of a five-part series which will count down the five greatest Iowa-Iowa State gridiron throw downs of the past.
It took Iowa four tries to solve the Cyclones - in Iowa City, no less - losing each of the first three match-ups in this rivarly which dates back all the way to October 1894.
1899 ended up being a great season for the Hawks who finished with an unblemished 8-0-1 record.
The only game Iowa didn't win was a week two slug fest with the University of Chicago in the Windy City which ended in a 5-5 tie.
The Cy-Hawk trophy and bowl games didn't yet exist. Nor did the Big Ten Conference - Iowa and Iowa State were both members of the 15-team Eastern Independent Conference.
Iowa would go on to win the next four meetings against Iowa State following the 1899 victory.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Hawks to face Cyclones
Kirk Ferentz will hold his weekly press conference this afternoon. Having had a few days for Iowa's dramatic 17-16 win over Northern Iowa to settle in his mind, Ferentz hopefully will only take positives from such a surprising week one test.
A few things I hope he addresses:
Who is going to start at running back?
Redshirt freshman Adam Robinson, who came in after starter Paki O'Meara struggled early, led the team with 63 yards on 15 carries and a touchdown on Saturday. Robinson was bursting through holes in the offensive line, but more importantly the Des Moines-native showed he was willing to work for the tough yards instead of attempting to hit a "home run" on every play. The Hawkeyes' first touchdown of the season came on an 11-yard scamper by Robinson in the third quarter.
Fellow redshirt freshman Jeff Brinson did not play in Saturday's game. If Brinson suits up this weekend in Ames, expect him to see some action.
What is the situation with Derrell Johnson-Koulianous?
A few things I hope he addresses:
Who is going to start at running back?
Redshirt freshman Adam Robinson, who came in after starter Paki O'Meara struggled early, led the team with 63 yards on 15 carries and a touchdown on Saturday. Robinson was bursting through holes in the offensive line, but more importantly the Des Moines-native showed he was willing to work for the tough yards instead of attempting to hit a "home run" on every play. The Hawkeyes' first touchdown of the season came on an 11-yard scamper by Robinson in the third quarter.
Fellow redshirt freshman Jeff Brinson did not play in Saturday's game. If Brinson suits up this weekend in Ames, expect him to see some action.
What is the situation with Derrell Johnson-Koulianous?
- Why did DJK get on the field for only a handful of plays, especially considering how close Saturday's game was?
- How much playing time is he going to see against Iowa State?
- Is Ricky Stanzi going to throw the ball to Tony Moeaki so many times that Moeaki eventually gets hurt? Why flirt with disaster so early in the season?
How does the defensive game plan change after the success UNI had against it?
In the last few seasons Iowa has typically struggled against the spread offense (Indiana and Kellen Lewis, ring a bell?). On Saturday, UNI spread out the Hawks' conservative base defense and veteran quarterback Pat Grace tore Iowa apart, completing 23-of-37 passes for 270 yards and a touchdown. More importantly, 15 of those completions went for Panther first downs.
Sure, Iowa's defense kept them in the game like they always do. But when the Hawks needed simply to keep UNI out of field goal range on the final possession of the game, Grace and the Panthers marched down the field seemingly with ease. It was like Grace was performing surgery on the Iowa secondary.
Can a brother get an adjustment or two?
Maybe just something as simple as press coverage. It doesn't even have to be man-to-man coverage; it can still be cover two zone. However, letting the defensive backs get a good jam on a receiver at the line of scrimmage throws off the timing of the routes and forces the quarterback to sit in the pocket where the defensive line can get after him.
How about blitzing a linebacker or a safety up the middle? Or how about a nickel back off the edge? Certainly the Hawks have the athleticism defensively to take a few risks here and there.
The spread offense is an aggressive style of offense and the best way to counter it is not to sit back and watch, bend but don't break, but to attack.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
The Great Escape
What did Iowa learn about itself in today's 17-16 nail-biter over Northern Iowa?
First off, it looks like the special teams units are strong. Back-to-back blocked field goals to close out a game? Unbelievable.
Secondly, Tony Moeaki is healthy and he looks solid. The senior snagged 10 catches for 83 yards, including a nasty touhdown grab from Ricky Stanzi in the final period to give Iowa it's first lead since the first quarter, 17-13.
Running back Paki O'Meara struggled in his first collegiate start. The junior was held to 16 yards on just nine carries by an aggressive UNI defense.
Redshirt freshman Adam Robinson filled in nicely following Paki's early struggles, leading Iowa with 63 yards on 15 carries. Despite it taking until nearly six minutes into the third quarter, the Hawks scored their first touchdown of the 2009 season on a slick 11-yard touchdown run by Robinson – the first of his career.
One thing that concerns me though is Derrell Johnson-Koulianous not seeing the field until the third quarter.
Are you kidding me?
Clearly the coaches could see Stanzi was struggling with his rhythm early on and they keep his favorite target on the sideline? That just doesn't make a lot of sense.
In college football there isn't a preseason schedule where games don't count toward the season record and teams can work the bugs out of their systems like there is in the NFL. At this early point in the season it is important for players to be finding their strides. You can't find your stride if you're on the sideline.
The Hawks also were only 3-12 on third down conversions, an area they struggled in last year and need improvement if they want to continue winning close games.
But in the end, the Hawks won a close game – something that has been anything but automatic for Iowa teams of the recent past.
Try not to be nervous for next week.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Tomorrow, tomorrow, I love you tomorrow.
T-minus 22 hours to tomorrow's kick off.
Perhaps the most exciting thing about Saturday's showdown between the Hawkeyes and the Panthers will be the two quarterbacks and their respective receiving corps on display. And by on display I mean front and center.
For Hawk fans it will be interesting to see if Ricky Stanzi and Derrell Johnson-Koulianous can continue in the groove they found at the end of last season.
DJK pulled in 44 catches for 639 yards and three touchdowns a year ago to lead Iowa in receiving, including a 181-yard performance in Iowa's 55-0 romp of Minnesota in the final regular season game of 2008. DJK cemented himself as Stanzi's favorite target after making a pair of clutch receptions during Iowa's miraculous final drive in the 24-23 upset of then-undefeated, No. 3 Penn State.
It will be interesting to see how Stanzi deals with the loss of Brandon Myers at tight end. Myers was virtually a sure-thing last year on third-and-whatever for Iowa's offense. It seemed like Stanzi and Myers hooked up on almost all of Iowa's 65 third down conversions in 2008.
The next man in is Allen Reisner who had 11 grabs for 200 yards and a touchdown in 2008 backing up Myers.
If Tony Moeaki can avoid any run-ins with the injury bug, he should have a phenomenal senior season as well.
On a personal level, I am excited to see how Iowa uses Keenan Davis. Davis is the biggest recruit at wide-out the Hawks have had since Dominique Douglas in 2005.
I'm hoping Keenan sticks around a little longer than Douglas did.
Watch out for UNI's Pat Grace and the Panthers' speedy receiving corps.
Without running backs Derrick Law and Taylor Brookins in the lineup expect UNI to take to the air early and often in order to build momentum and try to take the crowd out of the game.
Grace is a savvy veteran who knows all too well how to dissect a defense so expect another heavy dose of "Tampa 2" from the Iowa defense.
Here's to a bright and early morning tomorrow.
Perhaps the most exciting thing about Saturday's showdown between the Hawkeyes and the Panthers will be the two quarterbacks and their respective receiving corps on display. And by on display I mean front and center.
For Hawk fans it will be interesting to see if Ricky Stanzi and Derrell Johnson-Koulianous can continue in the groove they found at the end of last season.
DJK pulled in 44 catches for 639 yards and three touchdowns a year ago to lead Iowa in receiving, including a 181-yard performance in Iowa's 55-0 romp of Minnesota in the final regular season game of 2008. DJK cemented himself as Stanzi's favorite target after making a pair of clutch receptions during Iowa's miraculous final drive in the 24-23 upset of then-undefeated, No. 3 Penn State.
It will be interesting to see how Stanzi deals with the loss of Brandon Myers at tight end. Myers was virtually a sure-thing last year on third-and-whatever for Iowa's offense. It seemed like Stanzi and Myers hooked up on almost all of Iowa's 65 third down conversions in 2008.
The next man in is Allen Reisner who had 11 grabs for 200 yards and a touchdown in 2008 backing up Myers.
If Tony Moeaki can avoid any run-ins with the injury bug, he should have a phenomenal senior season as well.
On a personal level, I am excited to see how Iowa uses Keenan Davis. Davis is the biggest recruit at wide-out the Hawks have had since Dominique Douglas in 2005.
I'm hoping Keenan sticks around a little longer than Douglas did.
Watch out for UNI's Pat Grace and the Panthers' speedy receiving corps.
Without running backs Derrick Law and Taylor Brookins in the lineup expect UNI to take to the air early and often in order to build momentum and try to take the crowd out of the game.
Grace is a savvy veteran who knows all too well how to dissect a defense so expect another heavy dose of "Tampa 2" from the Iowa defense.
Here's to a bright and early morning tomorrow.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Hampton out for the season
"So much for SoCal on New Year's," was my first thought when I heard the news.
The news was Iowa head football coach Kirk Ferentz had officially announced that sophomore running back Jewel Hampton will miss the entire 2009 season with a knee injury.
Hampton, the heir apparent to fill the massive void left by 2008 Doak Walker Award-winner and current New York Jets running back, Shonn Greene, rushed for 463 yards and seven touchdowns on 91 carries as a true freshman last fall.
He will redshirt to save a year of eligibilty.
Like I said, so long Rose Bowl hopes. Even the Capitol One Bowl could be overly optimistic given the Hawks' treacherous road schedule. Hawk fans should set their sights on another Outback or Alamo Bowl apperance or risk being let down by the black-and-gold at their own peril. That doesn't mean give up, it just means be realistic.
However, in the words of Lee Corso I must say, "not so fast, my friend."
Time for Ferentz to re-initiate, "next man in."
But who will it be?
The running backs -- without Jewel -- have the least experience of any position on the team, which doesn't boast well for Iowa's run-right, run-left, throw-it-away-on-third-down-style offense -- I call it lack of imagination.
Ferentz has announced that junior Paki O'Meara will get the start in Saturday's game against Northern Iowa. O'Meara, an all-state running back at Cedar Rapids Washington, is the only back to have seen action last year -- albeit limited action, rushing for just 62 yards on 21 carries in 2008.
Behind Paki are a handful of unknowns looking to take advantage of some time in the spotlight.
Redshirt freshmen Jeff Brinson and Adam Robinson should figure into the mix, as well as true freshman Brandon Wegher. If this group can stay healthy, the offensive line -- Ferentz's specialty -- will make them look good.
"I don't know if it's going to be a two-man, three-man, four-man, but we'll do whatever it takes to be effective out there," Ferentz said during a press conference of his approach to the running back-by-committee system for the UNI game. "I am comfortable. I think the guys have practiced well and I'm optimistic they'll do some good things as we move forward."
And that's all they'll need to do.
The years the Hawkeyes have been great under Ferentz they haven't had several flashy players making one-handed grabs or rushing for 300 yards a game. They have a simple formula for success: strong running game, stingy defense, and sound fundamentals. They are the ultimate example of team football. Iowa is best when the rest of the nation doesn't see them coming.
So perhaps Jewel's injury is bittersweet.
Only time will tell.
The news was Iowa head football coach Kirk Ferentz had officially announced that sophomore running back Jewel Hampton will miss the entire 2009 season with a knee injury.
Hampton, the heir apparent to fill the massive void left by 2008 Doak Walker Award-winner and current New York Jets running back, Shonn Greene, rushed for 463 yards and seven touchdowns on 91 carries as a true freshman last fall.
He will redshirt to save a year of eligibilty.
Like I said, so long Rose Bowl hopes. Even the Capitol One Bowl could be overly optimistic given the Hawks' treacherous road schedule. Hawk fans should set their sights on another Outback or Alamo Bowl apperance or risk being let down by the black-and-gold at their own peril. That doesn't mean give up, it just means be realistic.
However, in the words of Lee Corso I must say, "not so fast, my friend."
Time for Ferentz to re-initiate, "next man in."
But who will it be?
The running backs -- without Jewel -- have the least experience of any position on the team, which doesn't boast well for Iowa's run-right, run-left, throw-it-away-on-third-down-style offense -- I call it lack of imagination.
Ferentz has announced that junior Paki O'Meara will get the start in Saturday's game against Northern Iowa. O'Meara, an all-state running back at Cedar Rapids Washington, is the only back to have seen action last year -- albeit limited action, rushing for just 62 yards on 21 carries in 2008.
Behind Paki are a handful of unknowns looking to take advantage of some time in the spotlight.
Redshirt freshmen Jeff Brinson and Adam Robinson should figure into the mix, as well as true freshman Brandon Wegher. If this group can stay healthy, the offensive line -- Ferentz's specialty -- will make them look good.
"I don't know if it's going to be a two-man, three-man, four-man, but we'll do whatever it takes to be effective out there," Ferentz said during a press conference of his approach to the running back-by-committee system for the UNI game. "I am comfortable. I think the guys have practiced well and I'm optimistic they'll do some good things as we move forward."
And that's all they'll need to do.
The years the Hawkeyes have been great under Ferentz they haven't had several flashy players making one-handed grabs or rushing for 300 yards a game. They have a simple formula for success: strong running game, stingy defense, and sound fundamentals. They are the ultimate example of team football. Iowa is best when the rest of the nation doesn't see them coming.
So perhaps Jewel's injury is bittersweet.
Only time will tell.
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