Predicting the 2009 Iowa Hawkeye Football Season: Arkansas State

At this point in my season predictions, the Iowa Hawkeyes are 3-1 overall and 0-1 in the Big Ten. 

Arizona fans think I have a chemical imbalance. Penn State fans are confused. Iowa State fans are completely non-existent, which is what I would expect because who in their right mind admits to being a Red Crow fan.

After losing to Penn State, the Hawkeyes head back to Iowa City for a non-conference game against Arkansas State University. I'll pause for a second while you Google to figure out who Arkansas State is.

As the results show, Arkansas State might have some talent on its team. They have three players appearing on preseason watch lists.

Senior defensive end Alex Carrington is on the preseason Sun Belt Conference Defensive Player of the Year list, not to mention the Lott Trophy, Lombardi Award, and Ted Hendricks Award watch lists.

Senior running back Reggie Arnold appears on the Doak Walker Award Watch List for the third straight year.

Senior kicker Josh Arauco was a finalist for the 2008 Lou Groza Award.

Maybe I underestimated the Red Wolves. So, what is this Hawkeye nerd's fearless prediction for the outcome of the game?

Iowa 45, Arkansas State 20

See what I did there?  I tricked you into thinking they had a chance. 

The Red Wolves may have a good running back, but Arnold isn't anything on the Hawkeye defense. The only reason I am giving Arkansas State 20 points is due to the fact that our third and fourth string will be playing most of the second half.

Arkansas State might also have a stud of a defensive end, but he hasn't faced an offensive line like Iowa's. Carrington may get a sack on a backup QB, but the Hawkeye OL will silence him.

Ricky Stanzi throws for 209 yards and three TDs. Hampton has 126 yards rushing and a TD. Stross runs a punt return back for a touchdown. Iowa dominates and the backups at every position get some much needed playing time.

Up next in the series of fearless predictions for the 2009 Iowa Football Season: Michigan.