The Hawkeyes will look to continue their late season success in 08, stomping Rival Minnesota in the final game at the Metrodome and the Big Ten’s only Bowl win against South Carolina.
This could be a Year the Hawkeyes creep into the national radar and make a Big Ten title run. Iowa returns a solid core and a talented recruiting class as well as a new WR coach.
However, it will be a tough task to try and fill the shoes of Shonn Greene, the nation’s leading rusher last year. The Hawks have had their offseason off the field issues as well and have made national headlines to the dismay of Kirk Ferentz.
Offense:
Line: It all starts up front and the Hawkeyes are returning key linemen three starters from last season: Tackles Baluga and Calloway, and Guard Vandervelde.
The Starting line should be Baluga, Calloway, Richardson, Vandervelde, and possibly Frentz or Kopel to fill an open center position.
WR/TE: Iowa welcomes new WR coach, “Soup” Campbell, who looks to improve the Hawkeyes' passing game. Returning wide outs Darrel Johnson-Koulianos, Tress Stross, and Marvin McNutt have size and speed to play with anyone.
The Hawks also have Colin Sandeman and incoming four star recruit Keenan Davis waiting in the wings. Iowa hopes to have a healthy Moeki, who, when healthy, is one of the nation’s best pass catching tight ends.
QB: Ricky Stanzi will be taking snaps. The returning Junior should gain from a year's experience and snaps with the first team. Stanzi has some big games under his belt and looks to pick up his game.
He has the tools to work with.
RB: The biggest question, who will step up in place of Shonn Greene?
Jewel Hampton is the man asked to fill those shoes. Hampton has an ability to hit the hole quickly and is tough to bring down in the open field. Hampton had 500 yards rushing behind Greene last season.
Look for Red-shirt Freshman Jeff Brinson and highly recruited incoming freshman Brandon Wegher to contribute this year as well.
Defense:
D Line: Iowa Returns both DE, loses both DT. Clayborn and Ballard are the returning starting DEs. Both had great seasons last season and will continue to improve.
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