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IrememberDukester
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| 07/09/2007 6:34 PM |
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Iowa Hawkeyes
Preview 2007
- 2007 Iowa Offense Preview | 2007 Iowa Defense Preview
- 2007 Iowa Depth Chart | 2006 CFN Iowa Preview
Head coach: Kirk Ferentz
9th year: 55-43
12th year overall: 67-64
Returning Lettermen: 375
Lettermen Lost: 20
Ten Best Iowa Players
1. DE Ken Iwebema, Sr.
2. LB Mike Klinkenborg, Sr.
3. RB Albert Young, Sr.
4. DE Bryan Mattison, Sr.
5. WR Dominique Douglas, Soph.
6. C Rafael Eubanks, Soph.
7. OT Dace Richardson, Jr.
8. WR Andy Brodell, Jr.
9. DT Matt Kroul, Jr.
10. CB Adam Shada, Sr.
2007 Schedule
CFN Prediction: COMING
Sept. 1 No. Illinois (in Chic.)
Sept. 8 Syracuse
Sept. 15 at Iowa State
Sept. 22 at Wisconsin
Sept. 29 Indiana
Oct. 6 at Penn State
Oct. 13 Illinois
Oct. 20 at Purdue
Oct. 27 Michigan State
Nov. 3 at Northwestern
Nov. 10 Minnesota
Nov. 17 Western Michigan
2006 Schedule
CFN Prediction: 11-1
2006 Record: 6-7
Preview 2006 predicted wins
9/2 Montana W 41-7
9/9 at Syrac. W 20-13 2OT
9/16 Iowa State W 27-17
9/23 at Illinois W 24-7
9/30 Ohio State L 38-17
10/7 Purdue W 47-17
10/14 at Indiana L 31-28
10/21 at Michigan L 20-6
10/28 Northern Illinois W 24-14
11/4 Northwestern L 21-7
11/11 Wisconsin L 24-21
11/18 at Minnesota L 34-24
12/30 Alamo Bowl
Texas L 26-24
In his ninth year in Iowa City, Ferentz has been good enough to be mentioned for just about every NFL job opening. If he really does have designs on the next level, his window is closing quickly, meaning he might be more interested in exploring his options next season. Then again, he was supposed to be off somewhere else a few years ago, yet he’s still around, and he’s still among the best.
Even without Tate, Ferentz has a team that could be the year’s big surprise. All the top receivers are back, along with RB Albert Young, while the defense should be sensational, with eight starters returning and a slew of experienced backups to fill in. Iowa now reloads and replaces; it doesn’t rebuild.
So was last year’s 6-7 record, with the season-ending collapse (losing the final four games), an indicator of the direction of the program, or was it an aberration? We’ll know after this year. Iowa lost to the elite (Ohio State, Michigan, Wisconsin, Texas), the lousy (Northwestern), and the in-between (Minnesota). Now it has to reclaim its reputation and get back to being the hot program it’s supposed to be.
What to watch for on offense: More balance. The offense became a bit too reliant on the mood and play of Tate, and now with Jake Christensen under center, it’ll rely more on Young running the ball. Even so, don’t assume this will be a conservative attack, as big plays will be available downfield to wide receivers Dominique Douglas and Andy Brodell.
What to watch for on defense: Don’t expect anything too cute. Last season, Iowa’s defense didn’t get nearly enough pressure or enough key stops, but that should change with the return of DE Ken Iwebema and top LB Mike Klinkenborg, who were injured. There won’t be any funky blitzes, and there’ll be plenty of bending but not breaking, but the overall result should be better.
The team will be far better if … it doesn’t give the ball away. The Hawkeyes were 111th in the nation in turnover margin, and mistakes were the difference between a good season and a great one. Iowa should’ve blown out Syracuse and should’ve beaten Indiana, but it couldn’t hang on to the ball. Part of the problem was Tate trying to make too many things happen, and part of the issue was the lack of takeaways to turn the momentum around in tight games.
The Schedule: It’s sneaky-tough early, but the Hawkeyes have no beef, considering there’s no Ohio State or Michigan to deal with. Three of the first four games (Northern Illinois, Iowa State and Wisconsin) are away from Iowa City, and an early road trip to Penn State could create a big hole in conference play. The back half is as easy as can reasonably be expected, getting Illinois, Michigan State, Minnesota and Western Michigan at home and going on the road to Purdue and Northwestern.
Best Offensive Player: Senior RB Albert Young. When he’s healthy, not a given in his up-and-down Hawkeye career, Young is one of the Big Ten’s most versatile and dynamic backs. With Tate gone, Iowa will lean heavily on its elusive senior, who led the conference in rushing two seasons ago and will be a reliable target for young Jake Christensen. If around for a full 12 games, he could hit 1,500 yards; he’s that good.
Best Defensive Player: Senior LB Mike Klinkenborg. He was a rock in the middle of the defense, leading the unit with 129 stops, despite missing Iowa’s bowl game. While not athletic in the Abdul Hodge or Chad Greenway mold, Klinkenborg has the necessary instincts and toughness to constantly be around the ball carrier.
Key player to a successful season: Sophomore QB Jake Christensen. While he’s not all that big, can’t move and has little experience, he’ll be the difference between a possible top-three Big Ten finish and also-ran status. If he can’t get the job done, or worse yet, gets hurt, it’ll be up to freshmen Richard Stanzi and Arvell Nelson to fight it out for the job. That would be a big, big problem early on.
The season will be a success if ... the Hawkeyes win ten games. A nine-win regular season and a bowl victory would get the program back on track after the disappointment of 2006, and it can dream of really big things, like the Rose Bowl, if it can split road dates at Wisconsin and Penn State. While Iowa isn’t going to be the best team in the Big Ten, not having to play Michigan or Ohio State (you’re going to hear this all year long) is a break that has to be taken advantage of.
Key game: Sept. 23 at Wisconsin. Assuming the Hawkeyes can avoid slipping in the yearly nightmare that’s the Iowa State battle, a win over the Badgers could possibly make it a one-game season. Outside of the date at Penn State, Iowa should be favored against everyone on the slate after going to Madison, where it’s won two straight.
2006 Fun Stats:
- Punt return average: Iowa 10.1; Opponents 3.3
- Fumbles: Iowa 21 (lost 12); Opponents 17 (lost 6)
- Penalties: Iowa 65 for 581 yards; Opponents 65 for 575 yards
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IrememberDukester
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| 07/09/2007 6:35 PM |
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Iowa Hawkeyes
Preview 2007 - Offense
- 2007 Iowa Preview | 2007 Iowa Defense Preview
- 2007 Iowa Depth Chart | 2006 CFN Iowa Preview
What you need to know: The Jake Christensen era starts after four years of the Drew Tate regime, but backup quarterback Arvell Nelson is a terrific prospect who could push hard this fall. With the 1-2 rushing punch of Albert Young and Damian Sims, the ground game will be strong if the questionable offensive line pulls out a better season than last year (when injuries were a major problem). Dominique Douglas and Andy Brodell are emerging targets, and they'll shine with a passer like Christensen winging it. As good as Christensen might be, the offense will try to run first.
Returning Leaders
Passing: Jake Christensen
23-35, 285 yds, 2 TD, 1 INT
Rushing: Albert Young
178 carries, 779 yds, 7 TD
Receiving: Dominique Douglas
49 catches, 654 yds, 2 TD
Star of the offense: Senior RB Albert Young
Player that has to step up and become a star: Sophomore QB Jake Christensen
Unsung star on the rise: Junior OT Dace Richardson
Best pro prospect: Richardson
Top three all-star candidates: 1) Young, 2) WR Dominique Douglas, 3) C Rafael Eubanks
Strength of the offense: Running back, starting receivers
Weakness of the offense: Offensive line, quarterback experience
Quarterbacks
Projected Starter: Everyone's been waiting to see what sophomore Jake Christensen, the star recruit of a few years ago, could do in a full-time role. He got a little bit of work in when Drew Tate got banged up last year, and he wasn't bad completing 19 of 30 passes for 256 yards and two touchdowns with an interception against Northern Illinois. He's not all that big at 6-1 and 215 pounds, but the left-hander is extremely strong with a next-level arm and great passing touch. He's not a runner; he'll stand in the pocket and sling the ball all over the field. While he should be a good one, he'll have to keep improving to cement his hold on the starting job this fall.
Projected Top Reserves: Don't assume Christensen is a bet-the-farm sure thing to be the opening day starter. Christensen is easily the team's best passer, but redshirt freshman Arvell Nelson can play and adds far more options. He's 6-4 and 210 pounds with excellent mobility. From the same high school as Troy Smith, he's a playmaker who can give the offense another dimension that Christensen can't.
While technically neck-and-neck with Nelson for the number two job, 6-4, 215-pound redshirt freshman Ricky Stanzi is the third man in the race. He's also more of a runner than Christensen, and he has the type of live arm that can stretch the field, but he's not the prospect that Nelson is, but he was great this spring.
Watch Out For ... more of a quarterback controversy than you might think. Everyone loves the backup quarterback. There might be some rumblings if Christensen, who all but locked up the job going into the fall, isn't magical early on.
Strength: The backups. Nelson and Stanzi don't have any experience, but they're among the Big Ten's best reserves. Nelson is as dangerous as they come, while Stanzi is a great prospect.
Weakness: Overall experience. After three years of Drew Tate, the Hawkeyes are starting over with an unknown starter. Whoever it is might be a good starter, but he'll be an unknown.
Outlook: Is it possible the quarterback situation has been upgraded despite losing a star like Tate and a veteran backup in Jason Manson? Tate was inconsistent last year, partially due to being banged up and partially due to having a bad season, and Manson stunk. With Christensen under center, the passing game should be better, but many defensive coordinators would rather face him than Nelson.
Rating: 7
Running Backs
Projected Starters: No one suffered more from the problems on the offensive line than senior Albert Young, who ran for 779 yards and seven touchdowns after tearing off 1,334 yards as a sophomore. He's 5-10, 209 yards and fast, fast fast, but his biggest run was a mere 26 yards. He has the power, he has the toughness, and he has good hands, finishing fourth on the team with 30 catches for 225 yards and a score. Now he has to stay healthy after being banged up throughout his career. If he can last a full season, and if the line is fine, he'll tear off 1,000 yards without a problem.
Paving the way will be long-time blocker Tom Busch. The 5-11 235-pound senior rarely runs, only gets used in the passing game around the goal line, with three of his eight catches going for scores, and is as dependable as they come starting 26 straight games. He might be used more in the offense this year, especially as a pass catcher.
Projected Top Reserves: Considering Young's career problems with injuries, backup Damian Sims will play a big role. The team's second leading rusher with 664 yards and six touchdowns, and a solid five-yard-per-carry average, he's a quick scat back who always produces when called upon. Young might be the team's most talented back, but Sims is the most dangerous.
Behind Busch will be 6-0, 230-pound junior Jordan McLaughlin, a former linebacker who spent all of last year as a backup blocker. When hard yards or offensive production is needed, Busch will get the call, but McLaughlin will see more than his share of time.
Watch Out For ... Sims to get the ball even more. There was a nice rotation between the top two backs, mostly out of necessity, and Sims showed what he could do. Young is the main man, but he needs as much help as he can get to last the season in one piece.
Strength: Pizzazz. Young and Sims are home run threats every time they tough the ball. They can each tear off yards in big chunks.
Weakness: Depth. With talented third stringer Shonn Green off the team, there could be a relapse of 2004, when the running game went into the tank after a Spinal Tap drummer array of strange injuries, when Young suffers his annual bumps and bruises and if something happens to Sims.
Outlook: It's up to the offensive line. If it's good, the ground game will crank out far more than the 143 yards per game it came up with last season. If not, Young and Sims will have to make their own plays, and as last year showed, Sims can do that, Young, for the most part, can't. With the passing game making defenses respect the deep ball more, there will be lanes for the backs to run through. If the main 1-2 punch can stay healthy, they'll be terrific.
Rating: 8
Receivers
Projected Starters: Last year's weakness is now a potential strength with the return of junior Andy Brodell at split end and sophomore Dominique Douglas. Brodell is a 6-3, 200-pound speedster who blew up late last year with seven catches for 159 yards and a score against Minnesota and a six-catch, 159-yard, two touchdown torching of Texas in the Alamo Bowl. He wasn't a consistent deep threat and he only had two scores over the first 11 games, but he should be tremendous if there's more consistent quarterback play.
Douglas led the team with 49 catches for 654 yards and two scores as a true freshman. Now he knows what he's doing and should be the go-to target who'll have to matchup with everyone's top corner. While he was steady, he was rarely spectacular and needs to do more with the ball in his hands, and has to start making more big plays, to become the type of receiver who keeps the chains moving and becomes a star.
Losing tight end Scott Chandler hurts, but 6-4, 255-pound junior Tony Moeaki is a good veteran who caught 11 passes for 140 yards and three scores. He's a decent blocker and an excellent receiver who'll flourish now that he's the main man. Don't be shocked if he becomes the main man on third downs and grows into a star.
Projected Top Reserves: 6-3, 195-pound sophomore Trey Stross had a nice first year making 13 catches for 189 yards and a touchdown. He should turn into a tough receiver who can make plays across the middle or deep, and should also be a key special teamer.
Also battling for time behind Douglas is sophomore Anthony Bowman. Only 5-11 and 167 pounds, he's not big, but he's one of the team's fastest players and will occasionally see time as a kick returner. In time, he should develop into one of the team's top field stretchers.
Pushing for time behind Moeaki at tight end is 6-4, 250-pound junior Brandon Myers who'll grow into a good receiver. He was mostly a special teamer last year, he only has one career grab with all the good players in front of him. With excellent athleticism, he'll quickly be a factor.
Watch Out For ... more consistency. The receivers were just trying to keep their head about water going into last year, and they came through fine. Douglas has to keep improving and Brodell has to prove his final two games of last year weren't a fluke.
Strength: Potential. Lots and lots of potential. Brodell has generated a huge buzz after what he did to the Texas secondary full of NFL talent, while Douglas showed what he could do as a true freshman. Moeaki will be fantastic.
Weakness: Depth. Stross, Bowman and James Cleveland, who'll play behind Brodell, haven't done much of anything yet. If Brodell and Douglas get hurt/stink, the corps will be back to square one.
Outlook: There's good size, excellent speed, and a lot to get excited about. While the corps might still be a year away from being anything that'll scare anyone, it'll be productive and will open up a can of home runs on some unsuspecting secondaries. It'll be a good enough corps to win with, but not strong enough to carry the offense for stretches.
Rating: 7
Offensive Linemen
Projected Starters: The line might be a concern, but it has a good one to build around in rising junior Dace Richardson at left tackle. He's 6-6 and 305 pounds with the athleticism to grow into an All-Big Ten performer. He wasn't healthy last year and struggled at time with his consistency, but he should be dominant at times this season now that he's 100%.
Richardson might be the most talented player up front, but this is Rafael Eubanks' line. The 6-3, 285-pound sophomore is among the best centers in the Big Ten, and he should be in the hunt for All-America honors if he can stay healthy. A starter right off the bat, he missed time in the middle of the year with an ankle injury. He's a sound, tough all-around blocker who plays like a mature veteran.
Also returning to start is 6-5, 305-pound junior Seth Olsen, who split time between guard and tackle and will get the nod at right guard. A mauling run blocker, he'll also play a big role in protecting the left-handed quarterback, Jake Christensen.
Taking over at right tackle, and with the main job of keeping Christensen clean, will be 6-7, 305-pound sophomore Kyle Calloway. Originally considered for a guard spot, his frame and tight end-like athleticism makes him more of a natural tackle. He saw a little time, but not enough to feel comfortable going into the year.
The other open starting spot, left guard, will be handled by 6-7, 295-pound sophomore Andy Kuempel after seeing a little time at tackle. He's built for the outside and will have to prove he can be steady on the inside. Playing next to Richardson will help.
Projected Top Reserves: Playing behind Calloway will be defensive tackle Alex Kanellis, who made 19 tackles but was mostly known for playing a week after undergoing an appendectomy. He's not huge at 6-4 and 295 pounds, but he's plenty tough. He'll battle with 6-8, 318-pound junior Wesley Aeschliman for the job. With his size and potential, he'll get every shot this fall to push Calloway out of the starting role.
At some point, 6-7, 300-pound sophomore Dan Doering will be a factor. He has as much talent as anyone on the line at either tackle or guard, but he hasn't been able to see much action yet. He'll start out behind Kuempel at left guard.
Watch Out For ... lots and lots of shuffling. It's going to take a while to make the pieces fit. Don't get comfortable with the depth chart.
Strength: Type. The Iowa linemen are all, for the most part, clones at around 285 to 300 pounds and tough. That allows for the coaching staff to play around with different ideas and different combinations to try to find the right fit. It also helps to have Kirk Ferentz, who always puts together great lines, as the head coach.
Weakness: Guard. In a perfect world, Olsen is playing right tackle on the other side of Richardson, but he's been forced to move to right guard.
Outlook: And here's the problem ... maybe. Give credit to the coaching staff for not letting the line go into the tank after a slew of injuries hit the front five, and now it's going to take a phenomenal effort to be better overall than last year. Eubanks and Richardson are near-certain all-stars, and there are several good prospects to eventually step up and shine. If everyone stays healthy, this will be a far better line at the end of the year than at the beginning.
Rating: 6.5
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IrememberDukester
Posts:2404
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| 07/09/2007 6:37 PM |
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Iowa Hawkeyes
Preview 2007 - Defense
- 2007 Iowa Preview | 2007 Iowa Offense Preview
- 2007 Iowa Depth Chart | 2006 CFN Iowa Preview
What you need to know: You basically know what you're getting with the Iowa defense. It's not going to do anything fancy, it's not going to bring any funky blitzes, and most teams should be able to get yards through the air without a problem. However, everyone can hit and there are few mistakes made. Eight starters return, led by end Ken Iwebema and one of the Big Ten's best lines, while the replacements for the departed starters are good. Forcing more turnovers, making more plays behind the line, and generating more pressure are all vital to coming up with a better year.
Returning Leaders
Tackles: Mike Klinkenborg, 129
Sacks: Bryan Mattison, 6.5
Interceptions: Mike Humpal, Adam Shada, 3
Star of the defense: Senior DE Ken Iwebema
Player that has to step up and become a star: Junior SS Harold Dalton
Unsung star on the rise: Redshirt freshman FS Brett Greenwood
Best pro prospect: Iwebema
Top three all-star candidates: 1) Iwebema, 2) LB Mike Klinkenborg, 3) DE Bryan Mattison
Strength of the defense: Defensive line
Weakness of the defense: Pass coverage
Defensive Line
Projected Starters: All four starters return to a line that was disappointing throughout last year, but could now turn into a major strength. It helps to get back a healthy Ken Iwebema, who missed most of the second half of last year with a shoulder injury and only made 27 tackles with three sacks. When he's right, the 6-4, 267-pound senior is among the best all-around ends in the Big Ten with excellent pass rushing skills and good strength against the run. Extremely consistent in all areas, his return instantly makes the line better.
Back on the other side is 6-3, 272-pound senior Bryan Mattison, who isn't anywhere nearly the athlete that Iwebema is, but he's almost as good. He stepped up when Iwebema went down, finishing with 59 tackles, 6.5 sacks and 10.5 tackles for loss, and deserved more recognition than he received. Now, he should flourish with offenses having to concentrate on Iwebema all the time.
The ends might be all-stars, but the tackles don't take a back seat to them. Juniors Matt Kroul and Mitch King are each good enough to be part of the All-Big Ten mix at the end of the year after growing into their jobs over the last two years. The 6-3, 264-pound King makes up for his lack of bulk with excellent quickness. The former linebacker is a terrific interior pass rusher with 5.5 sacks and 12 tackles for loss along with 56 tackles (and 116 stops over the last two years) despite being dinged up throughout last season. The 6-3, 277-pound Kroul has made 107 tackles over the last two years having bulked up after starting his career as a linebacker. While not the athlete that King is, he can get into the backfield.
Projected Top Reserves: The starting jobs are set, but that doesn't mean there won't be a place for redshirt freshman Adrian Clayborn. The star recruit of two years ago is a tackle-sized 6-3 and 275 pounds with the athleticism to grow into a next-level pass rusher. He'll start out behind Iwebema and should carve out a niche for himself as a top pass rusher before taking over the full-time job next year. It's not crazy to suggest he's a better pro prospect than Iwebema.
Bringing more bulk to the line is 6-3, 285-pound junior Rashad Dunn, a former offensive lineman who'll play behind Kroul. While he's hardly a finished product and will need plenty of seasoning, he should grow into a good run stopper over the next few years.
Watch Out For ... Clayborn. He was this close to playing as a true freshman, but now he gets a full year to work his way into the rotation before being the star of the line for three years. With size, strength and speed, he has all the measurables to be a star.
Strength: Pass rushing experience. All four spots can get into the backfield on a regular basis, and with the return of Iwebema, the ends will wreak havoc.
Weakness: Size. Iowa usually gets away with having smaller, quicker tackles and bigger ends, but once in a while, the lack of beef on the interior is a problem against bigger, stronger Big Ten lines.
Outlook: New defensive line coach Rick Kaczenski inherits a heater of a hand. If everyone stays healthy, this might turn into the Big Ten's best front four. All the starters are legitimate All-Big Ten candidates with Iwebema in a salary drive before becoming a top 50 draft pick next year. The backups aren't experienced, but there's plenty of talent and upside to get excited about.
Rating: 9
Linebackers
Projected Starters: Two starters return led by tackling machine Mike Klinkenborg, who was the heart and soul of the Hawkeye defense making 129 tackles and five tackles for loss in the middle. The 6-2, 240-pound senior isn't anywhere near the talent Abdul Hodge was, he's a very smart, very tough playmaker who's always around the ball and always being disruptive. Not great in pass coverage, his worth is as a run stopper.
On the weakside will be 6-3, 242-pound senior Mike Humpal after a decent 49 tackle season with three interceptions. He has excellent size for the position and excellent speed with the versatility to play inside or out. He suffered perception-wise from not being Chad Greenway, but that's an unfair standard to live up to. He's as tough as they come.
Stepping in for Ed Miles at the third spot will be 6-4, 244-pound sophomore A.J. Edds, a former tight end who made nine tackles as a reserve after making the switch. He got a start when Humpal was banged up and did a decent job, but he's still going to need time before he grows into the full-time role.
Projected Top Reserves: 6-1, 233-pound senior Bryon Gattas saw time in every game last year making seven tackles. The former JUCO transfer will play behind Klinkenborg with good range and toughness. With decent speed, he could play either outside spot.
Playing behind Humpal on the weakside will be 6-1, 230-pound sophomore Pat Angerer after making five stops as a reserve. With good quickness, he'll be groomed to take over the 2008 starting job, but he could end up playing in the middle at times.
Ready to emerge as a major star is 6-2, 222-pound redshirt freshman Jeremiha Hunter. A top recruit two years ago, he's starting to bulk up a little more to become more physical on the outside behind Edds. He has the speed and skill to potentially play anywhere in the corps.
Watch Out For ... nothing flashy. A few years ago, Hodge and Greenway made big plays happen on talent mixed into the defensive scheme. Klinkenborg and Humpal aren't All-Americans who'll make highlight reels, but they're rock-solid defenders.
Strength: Toughness. Not perpetuate the Iowa stereotype, but the linebackers are meat-and-potatoes players who don't make a lot of mistakes and always make the plays that need to be made.
Weakness: Raw athleticism. The linebackers aren't sticks in the mud by any stretch, but they're not going to fly all over the field and disrupt things. The reserves are better athletes than the starters.
Outlook: The corps makes up for any problems by going full-tilt, 100%, all the time. Klinkenborg is an all-star to revolve everything else around, Humpal is serviceable, and Edds is a rising playmaker who'll be an All-Big Ten performer before his career is done. There's good enough depth to not worry too much if injuries strike.
Rating: 7
Defensive Backs
Projected Starters: One of the big surprises of the off-season was the emergence of 6-0, 200-pound redshirt freshman Brett Greenwood as a viable option to take over for Marcus Paschal. The former walk-on throws his body all over the field and isn't afraid to play like he has something to prove. While he's not the greatest athlete around, he makes up for it by doing everything right.
Stepping into the vacant strong safety spot will be 6-1, 201-pound junior Harold Dalton, who brings excellent speed to the secondary. While he's been on the field a little bit here and there, he has yet to make a tackle in his career and starts the season as the biggest question mark on the defense replacing Miguel Merrick.
There aren't any concerns with the corners with seniors Adam Shada and Charles Godfrey returning. At 6-1 and 208 pounds, Godfrey is a former free safety who hits like a ton of bricks making 83 stops, two interceptions and five tackles for loss, but he he covers like a linebacker. His size makes him strong against the bigger receivers. Now he has to show he can handle the better ones.
The 6-1, 195-pound Shada is also a good-sized defender, and while he's not the tackler Godfrey is, he isn't bad with 40 stops, three interceptions and six tackles for loss despite missing time late in the year with a leg injury. He's a good, smart ball hawker who took an interception 98 yards for a score against Purdue.
Projected Top Reserves: Pushing for time at free safety, along with Greenwood, is 6-2, 200-pound sophomore Marcus Wilson. An excellent reserve making 21 tackles and a pick, he's a terrific athlete and a smart defender who knows how to get in the right position. If nothing else, he'll play a big role in nickel and dime packages.
6-2, 200-pound junior Bradley Fletcher has seen plenty of action making 38 tackles and breaking up four passes as a reserve and a spot starter stepping in for an injured Shada. With tremendous quickness, he can step into either corner spot or play safety if desperately needed.
Watch Out For ... Greenwood. Never question the heart and fight of a walk-on. He'll split time with Wilson and make the free safety spot a strength over the course of the year.
Strength: Corner experience. Shada earned honorable mention All-Big Ten honors while Godfrey is a good veteran who's one of the best in the league in run support. The safeties will be better than they might appear considering the secondary loses mainstays in Merrick and Paschal.
Weakness: Pass coverage. The corners can't do it. Shada isn't bad, but he's hardly a shut-down corner who can erase an opposing number one. Iowa always gives up a ton of yards, but its effectiveness is in how well it does on short to midrange plays.
Outlook: The secondary will be better than the stats will show. With a better pass rush expected from the front four, the corners will get more of a break. There won't be any missed tackles, and there won't be a ton of yards after the catch, but there could be plenty of deep passes here and there.
Rating: 6
Special Teams
Projected Starters: Considering Kyle Schlicher slipped in production between his junior and senior seasons, he won't be as tough to replace as it might appear. 6-4, 230-pound sophomore Austin Signor has a good leg and hit his two field goal attempts last year. Taking over the punting job from Andy Fenstermaker, who averaged a pedestrian 37.6 yards per kick, but forced a whopping 25 fair catches and put 19 inside the 20, will be redshirt freshman Ryan Donohue. He might not have the accuracy of Fenstermaker, but he'll air it out with several big blasts.
Watch Out For ... Signor. Iowa always seems to have good kickers, but can Signor keep up the recent tradition? If not, redshirt freshman Daniel Murray will quickly step in. The placekicking situation will be the difference in at least two games, and it needs to be solidified.
Strength: Big legs. Dononue has a big one, and Signor shouldn't have any problem with his range. Consistency and accuracy will be the issues.
Weakness: Kickoff returns. The Hawkeyes were terrible last season averaging just 17.79 yards per return. Beefing up the kickoff coverage unit would also help after allowing 23 yards per return.
Outlook: The potential is there to be good, but it might take a while. The punting game won't allow 2.9 yards per return again, and there will be some misfires here and there from the kicking game. Even so, this won't be a major weakness unless Signor and Murray start shanking.
Rating: 6
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Arbitrator
Posts:220
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| 07/09/2007 6:45 PM |
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| Defense looks very, very solid. Considering the QB spot will be a held by a youngster it is fortunate to have a very strong defense to depend on early in the season. |
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Crit40
Posts:2483
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| 07/10/2007 8:45 AM |
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Posted By IrememberDukester on 07/09/2007 6:34 PM
Iowa Hawkeyes
Preview 2007
- 2007 Iowa Offense Preview | 2007 Iowa Defense Preview
- 2007 Iowa Depth Chart | 2006 CFN Iowa Preview
Head coach: Kirk Ferentz
9th year: 55-43
12th year overall: 67-64
Returning Lettermen: 375
Lettermen Lost: 20
Ten Best Iowa Players
1. DE Ken Iwebema, Sr.
2. LB Mike Klinkenborg, Sr.
3. RB Albert Young, Sr.
4. DE Bryan Mattison, Sr.
5. WR Dominique Douglas, Soph.
6. C Rafael Eubanks, Soph.
7. OT Dace Richardson, Jr.
8. WR Andy Brodell, Jr.
9. DT Matt Kroul, Jr.
10. CB Adam Shada, Sr.
2007 Schedule
CFN Prediction: COMING
Sept. 1 No. Illinois (in Chic.)
Sept. 8 Syracuse
Sept. 15 at Iowa State
Sept. 22 at Wisconsin
Sept. 29 Indiana
Oct. 6 at Penn State
Oct. 13 Illinois
Oct. 20 at Purdue
Oct. 27 Michigan State
Nov. 3 at Northwestern
Nov. 10 Minnesota
Nov. 17 Western Michigan
2006 Schedule
CFN Prediction: 11-1
2006 Record: 6-7
Preview 2006 predicted wins
9/2 Montana W 41-7
9/9 at Syrac. W 20-13 2OT
9/16 Iowa State W 27-17
9/23 at Illinois W 24-7
9/30 Ohio State L 38-17
10/7 Purdue W 47-17
10/14 at Indiana L 31-28
10/21 at Michigan L 20-6
10/28 Northern Illinois W 24-14
11/4 Northwestern L 21-7
11/11 Wisconsin L 24-21
11/18 at Minnesota L 34-24
12/30 Alamo Bowl
Texas L 26-24
In his ninth year in Iowa City, Ferentz has been good enough to be mentioned for just about every NFL job opening. If he really does have designs on the next level, his window is closing quickly, meaning he might be more interested in exploring his options next season. Then again, he was supposed to be off somewhere else a few years ago, yet he’s still around, and he’s still among the best.
Even without Tate, Ferentz has a team that could be the year’s big surprise. All the top receivers are back, along with RB Albert Young, while the defense should be sensational, with eight starters returning and a slew of experienced backups to fill in. Iowa now reloads and replaces; it doesn’t rebuild.
So was last year’s 6-7 record, with the season-ending collapse (losing the final four games), an indicator of the direction of the program, or was it an aberration? We’ll know after this year. Iowa lost to the elite (Ohio State, Michigan, Wisconsin, Texas), the lousy (Northwestern), and the in-between (Minnesota). Now it has to reclaim its reputation and get back to being the hot program it’s supposed to be.
What to watch for on offense: More balance. The offense became a bit too reliant on the mood and play of Tate, and now with Jake Christensen under center, it’ll rely more on Young running the ball. Even so, don’t assume this will be a conservative attack, as big plays will be available downfield to wide receivers Dominique Douglas and Andy Brodell.
What to watch for on defense: Don’t expect anything too cute. Last season, Iowa’s defense didn’t get nearly enough pressure or enough key stops, but that should change with the return of DE Ken Iwebema and top LB Mike Klinkenborg, who were injured. There won’t be any funky blitzes, and there’ll be plenty of bending but not breaking, but the overall result should be better.
The team will be far better if … it doesn’t give the ball away. The Hawkeyes were 111th in the nation in turnover margin, and mistakes were the difference between a good season and a great one. Iowa should’ve blown out Syracuse and should’ve beaten Indiana, but it couldn’t hang on to the ball. Part of the problem was Tate trying to make too many things happen, and part of the issue was the lack of takeaways to turn the momentum around in tight games.
The Schedule: It’s sneaky-tough early, but the Hawkeyes have no beef, considering there’s no Ohio State or Michigan to deal with. Three of the first four games (Northern Illinois, Iowa State and Wisconsin) are away from Iowa City, and an early road trip to Penn State could create a big hole in conference play. The back half is as easy as can reasonably be expected, getting Illinois, Michigan State, Minnesota and Western Michigan at home and going on the road to Purdue and Northwestern.
Best Offensive Player: Senior RB Albert Young. When he’s healthy, not a given in his up-and-down Hawkeye career, Young is one of the Big Ten’s most versatile and dynamic backs. With Tate gone, Iowa will lean heavily on its elusive senior, who led the conference in rushing two seasons ago and will be a reliable target for young Jake Christensen. If around for a full 12 games, he could hit 1,500 yards; he’s that good.
Best Defensive Player: Senior LB Mike Klinkenborg. He was a rock in the middle of the defense, leading the unit with 129 stops, despite missing Iowa’s bowl game. While not athletic in the Abdul Hodge or Chad Greenway mold, Klinkenborg has the necessary instincts and toughness to constantly be around the ball carrier.
Key player to a successful season: Sophomore QB Jake Christensen. While he’s not all that big, can’t move and has little experience, he’ll be the difference between a possible top-three Big Ten finish and also-ran status. If he can’t get the job done, or worse yet, gets hurt, it’ll be up to freshmen Richard Stanzi and Arvell Nelson to fight it out for the job. That would be a big, big problem early on.
The season will be a success if ... the Hawkeyes win ten games. A nine-win regular season and a bowl victory would get the program back on track after the disappointment of 2006, and it can dream of really big things, like the Rose Bowl, if it can split road dates at Wisconsin and Penn State. While Iowa isn’t going to be the best team in the Big Ten, not having to play Michigan or Ohio State (you’re going to hear this all year long) is a break that has to be taken advantage of.
Key game: Sept. 23 at Wisconsin. Assuming the Hawkeyes can avoid slipping in the yearly nightmare that’s the Iowa State battle, a win over the Badgers could possibly make it a one-game season. Outside of the date at Penn State, Iowa should be favored against everyone on the slate after going to Madison, where it’s won two straight.
2006 Fun Stats:
- Punt return average: Iowa 10.1; Opponents 3.3
- Fumbles: Iowa 21 (lost 12); Opponents 17 (lost 6)
- Penalties: Iowa 65 for 581 yards; Opponents 65 for 575 yards
That's what I said with alot fewer words. But we are talking about collegefootballnews.com......must get paid by the word. |
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Counting the Herd one hoof at a time. |
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IrememberDukester
Posts:2404
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| 07/12/2007 8:33 PM |
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2006 overall record:
6-7
2006 conference record:
2-6
Returning starters
Offense: 6, Defense: 8, Kicker/punter: 0
Top returners
TB Albert Young, TB Damien Sims, DE Kenny Iwebema, DE Bryan Mattison, LB Mike Klinkenborg, C Rafael Eubanks
Key losses
QB Drew Tate, OG Mike Elgin, TE Scott Chandler, K Kyle Schlicher, CB Marcus Paschal
Top newcomer: OT Bryan Bulaga
2006 statistical leaders (* returners)
Rushing: Albert Young* (779 yds)
Passing: Drew Tate (2,623 yds)
Receiving: Andy Brodell* (724 yds)
Tackles: Mike Klinkenborg* (129)
Sacks: Bryan Mattison* (6.5)
Interceptions: Mike Humpal*, Adam Shada, Miguel Merrick (3)
Spring answers: 1. Watch out for Brett Greenwood. The former walk-on made a big impression with his play at free safety and could start in the fall. A year ago, Greenwood didn't have any offers he liked coming out of high school, so he came to Iowa with a chip on his shoulder and turned heads during his redshirt season. He made the travel squad, but didn't see game action. That will definitely change this year, given that Marcus Paschal and Miguel Merrick are now in the NFL, opening up two spots in the defensive backfield. Coaches love Greenwood's toughness and leadership. He could be the classic fall-through-the-cracks player who ends up starting for many years.
2. Adrian Clayborn is on the perfect schedule. Clayborn, the Missouri high school player-of-the-year in 2005, won't be asked to step in and start at defensive end this season. But that doesn't mean he won't contribute significantly. Clayborn is behind both Kenny Iwebema and Bryan Mattison, so the starting jobs are spoken for. That's OK, though, because Clayborn will be allowed to specialize in rushing the passer and should make an impact on third down. Coach Kirk Ferentz spoke highly of Clayborn during bowl preparations and has hinted that maybe Clayborn could have been used last season, when he redshirted. Ferentz likely won't regret that move in the future, because it will keep Clayborn on campus a year longer.
3. The receiving corps won't be a detriment again. Quarterback Drew Tate had a subpar conclusion to his Iowa career, but some of that wasn't Tate's fault. It's hard to be an effective quarterback without a few reliable receivers. Iowa had none at the start of last season and developed only one Tate could count on. This year, that won't be a problem for Jake Christensen or Arvell Nelson. James Cleveland, the first early enrollee in Iowa history, has now had two spring practices and a full redshirt season to grasp the offense. His development is crucial, because Iowa needs more than just Dominique Douglas and Andy Brodell to run the three-receiver sets it favors. Right now, Cleveland is in the two deeps and he is one of the better bets to see plenty of playing time this season.
4. The defense looks solid against the run. Iowa's rushing defense fell off horribly after September last season. The Hawkeyes allowed 163 rushing yards per-game over their final eight games. That can't continue, and it won't. What went wrong? Injuries, mostly. Now, with Iwebema and defensive tackle Mitch King healthy, Iowa should be able to play as well as it did against run-oriented Wisconsin and Minnesota late last season. The front four looked so good in the spring it's evoking comparisons to Iowa's 2004 unit that helped the Hawkeyes gain a share of the Big Ten title.
5. Another tight end stands up. Hayden Fry introduced the peculiarity of a tight end standing up at the line of scrimmage and it's been hard not to notice Iowa's tight ends ever since. Scott Chandler was Option No. 1 in the passing game last season, more by necessity than anything else. But tight ends are crucial to what Iowa does offensively, not just in the passing game, but in run blocking. Brandon Myers' development in the spring alleviates the concern over losing Chandler to the NFL. Myers and Tony Moeaki will give Iowa a pair of reliable players at the position.
Fall questions: 1. Will Jake Christensen play well enough at quarterback to hold off Arvell Nelson? It's Christensen's job, but his hold on the position is tenuous. He's not as mobile as Tate, which will force Iowa to block better up front to avoid some of the sacks Tate's mobility spared the team the past three years. Nelson was outstanding in the spring and brings the same flair to the position as Tate. Nelson, who prepped at Cleveland Glenville in Ohio, the same school that produced Troy Smith, can make plays with his legs and by creating time to find receivers down field. Christensen needs to start fast, or he could be watching.
2. Can the Hawkeyes be special on special teams? Iowa went 31-7 from 2002-2004 thanks in part to a field goal conversion rate of 87 percent. Nate Kaeding was rock solid the first two years of that stretch, but Kyle Schlicher did well in his first season as a starter in 2004. Schlicher wasn't quite as reliable the past two years, and the concern is that sophomore Austin Signor and freshman Daniel Murray won't be much of an upgrade from Schlicher's 13-of-20 success last season.
3. Will Dominique Douglas take the next step and dominate? Douglas developed under fire last season, when Iowa had no established receivers. His 49 catches for 654 receiving yards ranked second nationally among true freshmen. Now it falls upon him to be a guy defenses must game plan to stop. He must make the tough catches look easy and convert balls that could fall incomplete without him being to blame into receptions that make the highlight reel and, more important, keep drives going. Iowa has enough other talent around him that if Douglas can occupy considerable attention, his teammates will be given openings to do things they otherwise couldn't against straight-up coverage.
4. Can Kirk Ferentz once again earn his reputation as an offensive line wizard? The Hawkeyes will have no shot of rebounding from their sub-.500 finish if either of their young quarterbacks is under fire. That makes developing a dependable offensive line the first priority of fall camp. Plenty of guys got looks in the spring. The offensive line shuffling looked like a game of musical chairs at times. That's what happens when you lose three NFL-caliber linemen in Mike Elgin, Mike Jones and Marshal Yanda. Ferentz has done it before, plugging holes on the line and developing productive players. It's not like he doesn't have talent to work with, starting with tackle Dace Richardson and guard Rafael Eubanks. But others, specifically at right tackle, need to step forward. Christensen is a lefty, so pressure can't be coming from his blind side.
5. Can Iowa's tailbacks take the pressure off its quarterbacks? Senior Albert Young is one of those guys who seems like he's been around for eight years. He was fantastic two years ago, rushing for 1,334 yards and eight touchdowns as a freshman. Last year, his production fell off to 779 yards and seven touchdowns. Some of that was offensive line-related, but some of it was Young not making enough happen on his own. He should be fresh this year, because Iowa plans to also use junior Damian Sims. The platoon worked OK last season, with Sims producing 664 yards and six TDs. Together, they need to produce 1,800-2,000 yards and 18 touchdowns this season to make defenses think run first. That would allow Christensen or Nelson a cushion to develop and not force them to win games on their own. |
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IrememberDukester
Posts:2404
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| 07/16/2007 4:58 PM |
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From www.coachratings.com
All ratings have been provided by college football players who have direct experience with the coaches. The ratings and scores do not reflect the opinions of Coach Ratings™. For more information about Coach Ratings™ and the process in which ratings are collected and compiled please see the About Ratings page.
To view the rating results click on the name of the coach. Coaches displaying “pending” have less than the minimum required number of ratings. These results may be highly skewed either positively or negatively for a coach. Please keep this in mind when reviewing the results. When the minimum is met then the number of ratings will be displayed.
COACH NAME
UNIVERSITY
OVERALL RATING
NUMBER OF RATINGS
Alvarez, Barry
Wisconsin, University of
7.7
20
Amato, Chuck
North Carolina State University
8.5
pending
Barnett, Gary
Colorado, University of
8.3
25
Beamer, Frank
Virginia Tech
8.4
24
Bellotti, Mike
Oregon, University of
6.5
pending
Bennett, Phil
Southern Methodist University
7.6
25
Bicknell, Jack
Louisiana Tech University
5.4
11
Brooks, Rich
Kentucky, University of
4.0
pending
Brown, Mack
Texas, University of
9.5
11
Bunting, John
North Carolina, University of
7.5
19
Carr, Lloyd
Michigan, University of
9.0
10
Crowton, Gary
Not Applicable
8.1
12
Dennehy, Mick
Not Applicable
6.1
16
Doba, Bill
Washington State University
8.4
11
Ferentz, Kirk
Iowa, University of
9.7
28
Franchione, Dennis
Texas A&M University
6.9
20
Fulmer, Phillip
Tennessee, University of
7.1
14
Gailey, Chan
Georgia Tech
6.8
19
Glenn, Joe
Wyoming, University of
8.3
14
Grobe, Jim
Wake Forest University
8.2
28
Groh, Al
Virginia, University of
7.7
10
Jones, June
Hawaii, University of
7.1
pending
Koetter, Dirk
Arizona State University
7.7
23
Kragthorpe, Steve
Tulsa, University of
7.8
20
Leach, Mike
Texas Tech University
9.0
pending
Long, Rocky
New Mexico, University of
9.1
18
Lubick, Sonny
Colorado State University
9.0
11
Mackovic, John
Not Applicable
4.9
23
Mason, Glen
Minnesota, University of
7.3
32
McCarney, Dan
Iowa State University
8.0
26
Meyer, Urban
Florida, University of
6.7
11
Miles, Les
LSU
4.4
pending
Nord, Gary
Florida Atlantic University
5.0
10
Nutt, Houston
Arkansas, University of
7.2
32
Pasqualoni, Paul
Not Applicable
7.5
18
Paterno, Joe
Pennsylvania State University
6.5
pending
Petrino, Bobby
Louisville, University of
8.4
20
Pinkel, Gary
Missouri, University of
7.3
27
Richt, Mark
Georgia, University of
8.2
11
Riley, Mike
Oregon State University
8.3
17
Rodriguez, Rich
West Virginia University
5.9
pending
Sherrill, Jackie
Not Applicable
8.7
13
Shula, Mike
Alabama, University of
7.0
21
Smith, John
Michigan State University
7.2
20
Snyder, Bill
Kansas State University
5.4
25
Stoops, Bob
Oklahoma, University of
7.8
15
Teevens, Buddy
Dartmouth College
5.9
13
Tiller, Joe
Purdue University
5.5
23
Tressel, Jim
Ohio State University
9.5
14
Tuberville, Tommy
Auburn University
7.5
pending
Turner, Ron
Illinois, University of
8.0
25
Walker, Randy
Northwestern University
6.1
25
Wallace, Bobby
Temple University
7.4
12
Willingham, Tyrone
Washington, University of
7.6
18
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Logan
Posts:2525
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| 07/16/2007 5:06 PM |
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| where's callahan? |
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dwight, refuting reality one post at a time. |
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IrememberDukester
Posts:2404
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| 07/16/2007 9:47 PM |
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2007 IOWA FOOTBALL OUTLOOK
The 2006 University of Iowa football season resembled a two-act play. The first act was pure enjoyment for everyone connected with Hawkeye football. The second act, in turn, was a disappointment. Head Coach Kirk Ferentz and all connected with Iowa football would be just fine if they never again experience what happened during the second half of the 2006 season. A repeat of the first half would be just fine.
The Hawkeyes ended the 2006 campaign with a 6-7 record. A combination of untimely injuries, along with both physical and mental errors at inappropriate moments, resulted in Iowa losing six of its last seven games. This on the heels of beginning the season with five wins in the first six games and a spot in the national rankings.
Despite the second act, the Hawkeyes, and their reputation for being a great bowl team, received an invitation to the 2006 Alamo Bowl. It was Iowa's sixth straight bowl appearance (one of only three teams in the Big Ten to do so) and followed four straight years of January bowl game appearances. The Hawkeyes outplayed defending national champion Texas for much of the game. Ultimately, the Longhorns scored a come-from-behind 26-24 win over the underdog Hawkeyes. But, Iowa left Texas with its confidence restored and eager to begin the 2007 season.
And, once again, the reputation of the Iowa fans and their loyalty helped land Iowa in the Alamo Bowl. The Hawkeyes sold their entire ticket allotment to the game and helped bowl officials attract the largest crowd ever to see an Alamo Bowl game (65,875). The game also became the most viewed bowl game in ESPN history. Quite a testament to the football rich traditions of both Iowa and Texas.
Iowa City became the center of the college football world last Sept. 30th. Top-ranked Ohio State visited the 13th -ranked Hawkeyes in front of a national prime-time ABC television audience. Earlier in the day, ESPN's College Gameday (both television and radio) visited Iowa City again. Another Iowa sellout crowd of 70,585 witnessed a near flawless performance by the eventual Big Ten champion Buckeyes.
Wins over Montana, Syracuse, Iowa State and Illinois came before the loss to Ohio State. A big win over Purdue preceded Iowa's slide into act two of the 2006 season. But a poor second half to the 2006 campaign doesn't dampen what's happened in Iowa football over the last six years.
An appearance in the 2006 Outback Bowl put the Hawkeyes along side Southern Cal, Georgia and Florida State as the only teams with a four straight January Bowl appearances. Only USC made it five straight. Iowa's 25 conference wins in the 2002-05 seasons tie a team best and was bettered by no other Big Ten team in that time frame. A total of 44 wins over the last five years (8.8 average) ranks with the nation's best.
The last five years have been unprecedented in Iowa football history. It's resulted in two Big Ten championships (2002 & 2004), four January bowl games and three finishes in the nation's top ten. A 22-game home winning streak (broken in 2005) and 24 straight home sellouts are additional positives of a program rich in tradition and consistency. A pair of January bowl wins over highly regarded teams from the Southeastern Conference (Florida & LSU) are two more notches on the Hawkeye win belt.
Ferentz has been named Big Ten Coach of the Year twice and was the 2002 Associated Press National Coach of the Year. Defensive Coordinator Norm Parker has been a finalist for the Frank Broyles Assistant Coach of the Year Award twice (2004 & 2005). And, Ron Aiken was named Assistant Coach of the Year in college football in 2002.
Aiken left the Iowa staff earlier this year for a similar position with the NFL Arizona Cardinals. Only five coaches have left the Ferentz staff in the last nine years. Two of the five are now collegiate head coaches and the other three are coaches in the NFL. There is no question staff continuity has played a major role in Iowa's success.
Hawkeyes named to the 2006 all-Big Ten first or second team included offensive linemen Mike Jones and Marshal Yanda, tight end Scott Chandler, defensive back Marcus Paschal and linebacker Mike Klinkenborg.
The Hawkeyes had a banner year academically. Offensive lineman Mike Elgin, linebacker Mike Klinkenborg and defensive back Adam Shada were first team academic all-Americans. Elgin was named to the prestigious team for the second straight year. Iowa was the only school in the nation to have three players on the first unit. Eight Hawkeyes were also named to the Academic all-Big Ten team.
Departed quarterback Drew Tate leaves the Hawkeyes with his name firmly embedded in the Iowa record book following three years as the starter. He ranks second in passing yards (8,292), TD passes (61), completions (665), attempts (1,090) and total offense (8,427). He was 207-352 for 2,623 yards last year to rank second in the league.
Defenders Miguel Merrick (202) and Ed Miles (207) finished their careers with over 200 tackles while Marcus Paschal finished with 199 stops. Placekicker Kyle Schlicher finished his career with 260 points to wind up fourth on Iowa's all-time scoring charts.
The 2006 Hawkeyes played in a renovated Kinnick Stadium that was given a two-year $90 million facelift. The totally rebuilt south end zone and pressbox areas are a showcase. Kinnick Stadium has always been one of the best venues in college football and now it's even more impressive.
The Hawkeyes have sold out their home schedule the last three years, setting attendance records each season. The 2005 and 2006 home attendance average of 70,585 is an Iowa record. The Hawkeyes have played before 24 consecutive home sellouts, also a school record.
Iowa fans have an unmatched reputation for following their team. More than 15,000 made the trip to San Antonio for the 2006 Alamo Bowl, despite the team's 6-6 record. That means over 135,000 Hawkeye fans have traveled to Iowa's last five bowl games (2003 Orange, 50,000; 2004 Outback, 20,000; 2005 Capital One, 30,000; 2006 Outback, 20,000). It is no coincidence that Iowa ranks high on the wish list of virtually every bowl game in America.
Once again, all 13 of Iowa's games were televised last season. The Hawkeyes appeared on national TV eight times during the 2006 season (13 times the last two years). Iowa has been very popular with the networks, as 65 straight games have been televised. The last time an Iowa game was not aired on TV was against Minnesota during the 2001 season.
The Hawkeyes had another outstanding senior class last year. The graduates include five starters from offense (Scott Chandler, Marshal Yanda, Mike Jones, Mike Elgin and Drew Tate and three from defense (Miguel Merrick, Marcus Paschal and Ed Miles). Special teamers Andy Fenstermaker and Kyle Schlicher are also gone. The Hawkeyes lost 20 lettermen (13 offense, five defense, two special teams) from last year's roster.
Because of Iowa's performance in the Alamo Bowl, expectations will again be high this year. A strong blend of experience and talented underclassmen are reasons for this optimism The defense returns eight starters. Special teams and offense will see a lot of new starters with excellent potential in the lineup.
A total of 37 lettermen return, eight less than last year. That list includes eight returning starters on defense (Ken Iwebema, Matt Kroul, Mitch King, Bryan Mattison, Mike Humpal, Mike Klinkenborg, Charles Godfrey and Adam Shada) and six on offense (Tom Busch, Albert Young, Andy Brodell, Dominique Douglass, Rafael Eubanks and Seth Olsen).
The 2007 Hawkeyes will play a 12-game schedule, which includes six home games. The opener will be Sept. 1st against Northern Illinois at Soldier Field in Chicago. The home opener is the following week against Syracuse. Missing from the Hawkeye schedule are Big Ten foes Michigan and Ohio State. The Hawkeyes do not have an open date.
Here is a look at the Hawkeyes, position by position.
Jake Christensen
QUARTERBACK
For the first time in four years the Iowa quarterback position will not belong to Drew Tate. Tate ended his Iowa career ranked in the top five of virtually every Iowa passing mark. The Hawkeyes won 23 games in that span and made it to the Capital One, Outback and Alamo Bowls. His signal calling abilities will be missed. Also gone is Jason Manson, who proved to be an invaluable team leader as a quarterback and receiver.
The search for Iowa's next quarterback has to start with sophomore Jake Christensen (6-1, 205). He the only returning signal caller with any game experience. Christensen started one game last year (Northern Illinois) and played in a total of five games behind Tate. He was 23-35 passing for 285 yards and a pair of touchdowns. The 6-1, 205-pounder is considered a strong passer, but not as elusive on his feet as his predecessor.
A pair of freshmen from Ohio, Arvell Nelson (6-4, 175) and Richard Stanzi (6-4, 200) are listed behind Christensen and could have something to say about who is Iowa's next quarterback. Both have excellent credentials, are very athletic and were impressive during their redshirt campaigns last year.
It'll be hard to replace the all-Big Ten credentials Drew Tate left behind, but quarterback Coach Ken O'Keefe feels the Hawkeyes have excellent talent ready to step to the front this season.
Albert Young
RUNNING BACK
Two of the top running backs in the Big Ten will be seniors on the 2007 Iowa roster. All-America candidate Albert Young (5-10- 209) and Damian Sims (5-9-185) return for their final seasons.
Young and Sims combined for 1,443 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns last season. The pair had 310 rushing attempts. The duo is considered by many to be the top 1-2 rushing threat in the league. Young was hurt much of the 2006 season but still rushed for a team-best 779 yards.
In addition, Young caught 30 passes for 225 yards and a touchdown as Iowa's fourth leading receiver in 2006. He has excellent power and is good at breaking tackles. Young is currently eighth on Iowa's career rushing charts with 2,205 yards. He could move as high as second on the Iowa rushing charts with a good 2007. He ranked 17th nationally in rushing yards as a sophomore.
Sims is an explosive breakaway threat and is especially dangerous when put into the lineup after the opposing defense gets a steady dose of Albert Young. Sims, a three-time starter last year, also led Iowa in 2006 kickoff returns with 10 for 184 yards.
Junior Shonn Greene (5-11, 225) rushed for 206 yards, 6.4 yards per carry, last year. He is an outstanding insurance policy for Iowa's running game. He's a power runner with deceptively good speed. The possibility of Shonn being redshirted this season has been discussed and will depend on the health of Young and Sims.
Sophomore Dana Brown (5-10, 203) is the only other running back with any experience. He rushed four times for 16 yards and one score last year. Adding depth to the rushing corps is freshman Paki O'Meara (5-11, 205).
Iowa's running backs are strong and talented and the top pair provides an excellent 1-2 punch. The success of a new quarterback and a rebuilt offensive line will greatly determine the success of this unit.
Tom Busch
FULLBACK
Senior Tom Busch (5-11, 231) returns, having started 26 consecutive games at fullback. He's one of only two (TE Scott Chandler) offensive players to start at the same position, every game, last year. He rushed only two times last year, but caught eight passes for 55 yards and three touchdowns. He is considered an excellent blocker and pass receiver.
Junior Jordan McLaughlin (6-0, 227) is Busch's backup. Like Busch, McLaughlin is a converted linebacker. He saw limited action in 10 games last year and recorded no statistics. Another linebacker moving over to fullback will be redshirt freshman Brett Morse (6-3, 220). The only other fullback listed on the spring roster is junior Eddie Williams (5-11, 230).
Iowa's fullbacks have been used primarily as blockers the last few years. This could be a breakout year for this particular position in regards to yardage and run production.
Tony Moeaki
TIGHT END
The Hawkeyes lost considerable talent with the graduation of Scott Chandler and Ryan Majerus. Both saw considerable playing time over the last four years. Chandler was a second team all-Big Ten selection and was picked to play in the Senior Bowl. He started all 13 games and was Iowa's second leading receiver with 46 catches for 591 yards and six touchdowns. His size and pass catching ability will be missed.
Junior Tony Moeaki (6-4, 250) is Iowa's leading candidate to take over the top spot. He has seen extensive action over the last two years and should provide invaluable experience at the position. Moeaki caught 11 passes for 140 yards and three touchdowns in 2006. He played in every game as a true freshman in 2005.
Junior Brandon Myers (6-4, 242) is listed behind Moeaki. He is a highly effective pass catcher capable of considerable playing time.
Junior Michael Sabers (6-5, 240) and sophomore Richie Amendola (6-3, 235) lead a group of underclassmen hoping for playing time. Others are sophomore Kyle Spading (6-6, 255), junior Lucas Cox (6-4, 247) and converted sophomore wide receiver Tyler Gerstandt (6-6, 220).
Talent doesn't seem to be a problem at tight end. Coach Eric Johnson will need to build stronger depth this spring so the loss of Chandler and Majerus isn't felt so strongly.
Dominique Douglas
WIDE RECEIVER
The Hawkeyes were extremely young and inexperienced at wide receiver last year. The inexperience showed in the form of dropped passes at the most inopportune times. The good news is that virtually all of those young and talented receivers are back with a year's experience under their belts.
Eight players are listed at the two wide receiver spots on the spring roster. Of those eight players, four are redshirt freshmen, three are sophomores and one's a junior. The experience picked up last year should make for a strong receiving corps the next two or three years.
The top returnees are sophomore Dominique Douglas (6-1, 185) and junior Andy Brodell (6-3, 193). Douglas started the final 11 games as a true freshman. He led the nation's true freshmen receivers with 49 catches and his 654 receiving yards was second nationally. He averaged 13.3 yards per catch. Those numbers made him Iowa's leading receiver and got him selected to the Sporting News third freshman all-America team and Sporting News' first freshman all-Big Ten team.
Brodell was Iowa's third leading receiver with 39 receptions for 724 yards and five touchdowns. He had six catches for 159 yards and two touchdowns against Texas in the Alamo Bowl. The 159 yards is an Alamo Bowl record and his 63-yard scoring reception against the Longhorns is the longest in Iowa bowl history. Brodell caught 13 passes for 318 yards and three touchdowns in his last two games of the 2006 season.
Sophomores Trey Stross (6-3, 190) and Anthony Bowman (5-11, 165) gained valuable experience as freshman. Bowman played as a true freshman. Stross caught 13 passes for 189 yards and one touchdown. Bowman had no catches with limited playing time.
Four redshirt freshmen are all considered talented with an excellent chance to gain playing time this fall. The four are James Cleveland (6-1, 185), Paul Chaney (5-9, 160), Derrell Johnson-Koulianos (6-1, 205) and Ben Evans (6-0, 170). The quartet has great hands and speed and are expected to help the Hawkeye receiving corps.
This is a unit where all the candidates have a great chance to impress the coaches this spring. Eventually, Iowa's receiving corps will be very deep and talented. A little game experience is all that's needed.
Seth Olsen
OFFENSIVE LINE
Iowa's 2007 offensive line will need to reload this year following the loss of three valuable starters. How effectively the Hawkeyes fill those three spots could determine how successful the 2007 season is. Gone are starting guards Mike Elgin and Mike Jones, along with tackle Marshal Yanda. Jones was a first team all-Big Ten choice while Yanda made the second team. Elgin, a three-year starter, was honorable mention all-Big Ten and a two-time first team academic all-American.
A good place to start rebuilding the line is at center. Back doing the snapping will be sophomore Rafael Eubanks (6-3, 288). He was named to at least three freshman all-America teams. A mid-season injury forced Eubanks out of the lineup, but he still started nine games during the 2006 campaign.
Backing up Eubanks will be junior Rob Bruggeman (6-3, 280) who has gained considerable experience in a reserve role. Adding depth to the center spot will be junior Anton Narinskiy (6-4, 260) and freshman Josh Koeppel (6-1, 247).
Ferentz feels confident and strong about the two junior offensive tackles listed number one on the depth charts. Seth Olsen (6-5, 301) had an outstanding sophomore season and is listed No. 1 on the right side after starting five times at guard and five times at tackle last year. Dace Richardson (6-6, 306) started eight games at left tackle during an injury plagued season. The Hawkeyes are much stronger on the line with a healthy Richardson.
A major switch is taking place here with the move of junior Alex Kanellis (6-4, 281) from the defensive side. Kanellis started four times as a defensive end where he registered 19 tackles last year. He'll start the spring at offensive tackle. He had an appendectomy just prior to the Illinois game last year and played in the Ohio State game a week later. Obviously, toughness is not a question with Kanellis, who played in 2005 as a true freshman.
There isn't much experience behind Olsen and Richardson at tackle, but there's no denying the talent that's present and ready for action. Behind Olsen are converted sophomore tight end Tyler Blum (6-6, 260) and junior Nyere Aumaitre (6-5, 295). Hoping to steal playing time from Richardson is sophomore Kyle Calloway (6-7, 295), junior Austin Postler (6-5, 277) and freshman Kyle Haganman (6-5, 262).
It's a new ball game at guard, as both listed starters will be seeing their first action on the top line. Sophomore Andy Kuempel (6-7, 295) will begin spring ball as the top guard on the left side. His backup is sophomore Dan Doering (6-5, 290). Junior Wes Aeschliman (6-8, 315) is big and talented and will begin spring ball as the No. 1 right guard. Behind Aeschliman will be sophomore Travis Meade (6-2, 280) and freshman Julian Vandervelde (6-3, 275).
With a new quarterback and experienced running backs, it's imperative that the offensive line make major strides forward during spring practice.
Mitch King
DEFENSIVE LINE (Includes ends)
The Iowa defense found itself in unfamiliar and uncomfortable terrain last year. It's been the norm for a Kirk Ferentz and defensive coordinator Norm Parker coached defense to be in the Big Ten's upper defensive echelons. Injuries and other problems put the 2006 Iowa defense in the position of giving up much more yardage that it's accustomed to. It's a problem the Hawkeyes don't expect to last very long.
The Hawkeye d-line is rich in tradition and will be looking to rebound this year. Lending credence to Iowa's recent talented defensive lines are former Hawkeye defenders now playing in the NFL. All-pro Aaron Kampman heads a list which also includes Colin Cole, Matt Roth, Jonathan Babineaux and Derreck Robinson, to name a few.
The 2007 defensive line will have a new coach for the first time since Ferentz arrived. Ron Aiken has moved to the NFL and his replacement will be Rick Kaczenski, a graduate assistant on the Hawkeye staff last year.
Kaczenski will help coach an Iowa defense which returns eight starters. The defensive line could be very strong with both starting tackles and ends returning. The Hawkeye rush defense was seventh and total defense was sixth in the Big Ten last year. The strength of the line could ignite a surge to put Iowa's defense among the league's top units again.
Juniors Matt Kroul (6-3, 271) and Mitch King (6-3, 264) are both candidates for post-season honors as they return for their third year of extensive duty in the trenches. Kroul has been a starter 25 straight times and King has started 19 of the last 25 Hawkeye games. Both are very familiar with each other and their positions. The two accounted for 115 tackles (Kroul 59 and King 56) last season and 108 in 2005. King led the 2006 Hawkeyes with 12 tackles (49 yards) for loss. He also had five quarterback sacks. Kroul had 5.5 tackles (16 yards) for loss and 2.5 quarterback sacks.
Backing up the starters will be veteran junior Ryan Bain (6-2, 282) who has seen extensive action as both a tackle and an end. He started four times last year in place of the injured King and end Ken Iwebema. Bain had 35 tackles a year ago and a pair of tackles for loss. He had 21 tackles playing as a true freshman in 2005.
Junior Rashad Dunn (6-3, 290) is a backup at tackle after making the move from the offensive line. Iowa coaches feel Rashad could be a force in the Hawkeye line. Dunn saw limited offensive line action in his first two years.
Junior Grant McCracken (6-3, 245) and sophomore Mark Mahmens (6-3, 250) are hoping to learn the ropes behind Iowa veterans. Both will add depth while gaining valuable experience.
Like the defensive tackles, Iowa feels very good about its returning starters at end, but needs to develop depth behind them.
Seniors Bryan Mattison (6-3, 272) and Ken Iwebema (6-4, 270) are back for their final campaigns and both are candidates for post-season honors. Mattison has started 25 straight games while Iwebema has started 20 of the last 25. Iwebema was a first team all-Big Ten selection in 2005 and was named to many pre-season watch lists prior to the 2006 season. A shoulder injury kept him out of action for much of last season. He still was able to make 27 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss and three quarterback sacks. A healthy Iwebema will be a big plus for the Iowa defense. Mattison was named to the 2006 honorable mention all-Big Ten team and was named a 2006 permanent team captain. He had 59 tackles and 10.5 tackles for loss (74 yards) last year. His 6.5 quarterback sacks (-57 yards) led the team. Mattison led the Big Ten (league games only) and was 21st nationally in forced fumbles with four.
Behind those two ends are a group of talented, yet inexperienced players. Red-shirt freshman Adrian Clayborn (6-3, 250) is listed as a backup on both sides and is anxious to get into the battle for playing time. Joining him at the end spots will be sophomore Chad Geary (6-3, 220), junior Jared Oberland (6-0, 242) and redshirt freshman Karl Klug (6-4, 220).
The defensive line could become one of the best in the Big Ten again. Staying healthy and building depth is the key for Iowa's d-line this spring and fall. There's a lot of starting talent and considerable talent waiting for a chance to be recognized.
Mike Klinkenborg
LINEBACKERS (includes outside linebacker)
Iowa's linebacking tradition is becoming pretty well known around the country. Two linebackers from the 2005 senior class are now highly regarded in the National Football League. They are Minnesota's Chad Greenway and Green Bay's Abdul Hodge.
Gone from 2006 is Edmond Miles, who accounted for 100 tackles, including 11 stops for loss. The Hawkeyes will miss his 207 career stops. Also gone is the valuable Zach Gabelmann. He only had 16 tackles last year, but was an important reserve and played a critical role on Iowa's specialty teams.
Returning starters are seniors Mike Klinkenborg (6-2, 240) and Mike Humpal (6-2, 232). Both started 12 of 13 games last season. Klinkenborg was a second team all-Big Ten choice after leading the Hawkeyes in tackles with 129. He also had five tackles for loss and was named a permanent team captain in 2006. He was named Walter Camp Defensive Player of the Week for his play in Iowa's win over Syracuse last year. His 129 tackles rank second in the Big Ten and eighth nationally. On top of all that he was a first team Academic all-American with a 3.96 GPA. He'll be a strong candidate for post-season honors this year. Humpal had 49 tackles, 4.5 for losses. Humpal has been a steady dependable force on Iowa's defense.
Humpal was an outside linebacker, for the most part, last year. He'll move inside and will begin spring practice as a starter. Fighting Humpal and Klinkenborg for playing time will be senior Bryon Gattas (6-1, 233) and sophomore Pat Angerer (6-1, 222). Gattas is a junior college transfer who saw considerable playing time last season. He had seven tackles while playing in all 13 games. Angerer also played in every game last year, but registered only five tackles. The combination of Klinkenborg, Humpal, Gattas and Angerer at inside linebacker give the Hawkeyes strength and depth at the position.
Sophomore A.J. Edds (6-4, 224) will begin spring ball as the top outside linebacker. Edds began 2006 as a true freshman tight end and made the switch early in the season. Edds started the Purdue game in place of the injured Humpal. He was credited with nine tackles and a forced fumble last year. Edds was named to the Sporting News Freshman first all-Big Ten team and honorable mention freshman all-America team.
It's plain to see the Hawkeyes need to develop more depth at the linebacking position with three of the top four being seniors and not much experience behind them.
The other linebacking candidates have little, if any, game experience. They include junior Gavin McGrath (6-2, 231), freshmen Jeremiha Hunter (6-2, 217), Jeff Tarpinian (6-3, 205) and junior Jon Isgrig (6-1, 235). All have excellent potential and are just waiting for their chance.
Iowa linebacking has a reputation for being good, hard-hitting football players. This year is no different. It's been said before about other defensive units on the team; the starters are good and depth needs to be fortified this spring. The talent is there.
Adam Shada
DEFENSIVE BACKS
The good news is the return of both cornerbacks. The bad news is the loss of two four-year lettermen starters. Aside from the returning starters, the backfield will be green and inexperienced.
Last year the Hawkeyes were trying to recover from the loss of cornerbacks Antwan Allen and Jovon Johnson. This year the loss of safeties Marcus Paschal and Miguel Merrick will be felt just as strongly. The two veterans accounted for 149 tackles last year with Merrick getting credit for 82 and Paschal 67. Both were honorable mention all-Big Ten in 2006. The pair had over 400 career tackles between them.
Senior Adam Shada (6-1, 185) will start at one corner with senior Charles Godfrey (6-1, 208) at the other. Shada started the first eight games last year before being sidelined with a leg injury. He returned to play in the Alamo Bowl. Shada was an honorable mention all-Big Ten pick and another Hawkeye first team Academic all-American (there were three last year). He had 40 tackles and three interceptions, including a record 98-yarder for a touchdown against Purdue.
Godfrey started all 13 games last year after starting three in 2005. Godfrey was Iowa's third leading tackler last year with 83 stops. He had two interceptions and forced one fumble.
Only four other defensive backs have seen appreciable game experience. They are junior Bradley Fletcher (6-2, 195), sophomore Marcus Wilson (6-3, 198), sophomore Justin Edwards (6-1, 165) and senior Drew Gardner (5-10, 178). Wilson started two games in place of the injured Paschal at mid-season and Fletcher started four games late in the season when Shada was injured. Fletcher played in every game last year and had 38 tackles and a forced fumble while Wilson had 21 stops and an interception. Gardner had five tackles and Edwards four. All, except Wilson, are listed as cornerbacks.
Wilson will enter spring ball as the top free safety. The top strong safety belongs to junior Harold Dalton (6-1, 192) for the start of spring practice. It'll be up to Dalton to solidify his status this spring.
A number of other young reserves hope to do well enough to impress Coach Phil Parker this spring. They are freshmen Nick Kuchel (5-11, 184), Brett Greenwood (6-0, 185), Troy Johnson (6-2, 215), Lance Tillison (6-2, 205), Derrick Smith (6-0, 195), Jayme Murphy (5-11, 215), Amari Spievey (6-0, 175) and sophomores Chris Rowell (6-1, 187) and Taylor Herbst (6-1, 220).
The backfield appears, on paper, to be Iowa's most vulnerable spot on defense. But the talent, albeit young and untested, is just waiting to show what they can do. This unit could become deep and talented this year and in years to follow.
Austin Signor
SPECIAL TEAMS
It's a whole new ball game for Iowa's kicking game. Placekicker Kyle Schlicher and punter Andy Fenstermaker are both gone. Both were honorable mention all-Big Ten choices last year and were on the watchlists for kicker and punter of the year awards.
Schlicher finished his career with 260 points to rank fourth on Iowa's all-time scoring charts. He was 51-65 on career field goals and made 106 of 111 extra points. His 51 career field goals rank third in Iowa history. Like Nate Kaeding, the loss of Kyle Schlicher will be a big one for the Hawkeyes. Fenstermaker was reliable averaging nearly 38 yards a punt. Of his 56 punts, 19 were downed inside the 20-yard line.
So who's the next man in for the Hawkeyes?
Freshman Ryan Donahue (6-3, 180) sat out last year after joining the Hawkeyes as one of the nation's top prep punters (and placekicker). He'll begin the spring as the starting punter.
The top two placekickers are sophomore Austin Signor (6-4, 230) and freshman Daniel Murray (5-10, 175). Signor did most of Iowa's kickoff duties last year. He was 2-2 on field goals (41 & 35 yards) and 5-5 on extra points. He has a strong leg and needs to become more consistent. Murray will be pushing Signor for playing time.
The Hawkeyes finished first in Big Ten in kickoff coverage two years ago and eighth last year. The Hawkeyes were 10th in Big Ten kickoff returns. Punt returns and net punting both ranked sixth in the Big Ten. And for the first time in recent memory Iowa did not block a kick. It's obvious to all the Hawkeye special teams need to see improvement this year. It's not coincidental that good Iowa teams (and good records) were accompanied by stellar special teams play.
It's said often in Iowa City, but it's especially true this year; the way to a coaches heart is with special teams. With so many young players on the roster, this is a good area to gain the attention of the coaches. Strong special teams play is a great ticket to earning additional playing time on the field.
THE SCHEDULE
Iowa will play a 12-game regular season schedule that includes six home games, five road games and a season opener at a neutral site. There is no week off during the campaign. The Hawkeyes have traditionally played one of the nation's top schedules and this year is no different. Seven of last year's opponents appeared in bowl games and six teams on the 2007 schedule played in 2006 bowl games. New to Iowa's non-conference schedule is season-closing foe Western Michigan (Nov. 17th). Other non-conference games include the Sept. 1st season opener against Northern Illinois at Soldier Field in Chicago. That game is followed by a home contest against Syracuse and a road trip against Iowa State. The Hawkeyes also have Kinnick Stadium contests with Indiana, Illinois, Michigan State and Minnesota. Big Ten road contests include Wisconsin, Penn State, Purdue and Northwestern. Michigan and Ohio State are Big Ten teams not on the Iowa schedule for the next two years.
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Arbitrator
Posts:220
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| 07/17/2007 9:23 PM |
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As I have stated before I am a Creighton Alum but have followed the Hawkeyes for years in football and actually prefer watching the Hawks over the Huskers.
If things jell they could make it an 11 game win season, anything less than 9 wins would not be viewed in a positive light by some of my friends who graduated from Iowa City. |
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