Senior Day at Kinnick
Big Ten title hopes diminished
Why should the Iowa Hawkeyes even show up to play Saturday? According to the so called "experts" Ohio State is the only team that is playing for anything (Big Ten Title hopes) and Iowa has merely been pushed by the wayside.
But this is Iowa.
And Kirk Ferentz doesn't know the word quit.
The Hawks are still playing for a January 1 bowl game (Capital One or Outback), and look to leave fans with a better taste in their mouths than the bitter aftertaste of last weeks disappointing loss to Northwestern. As the senior class will play in-front of Kinnick Stadium one last time. Johnson-Koulianos, Clayborn, Stanzi, Greenwood are all names that will be forever remembered for this class for obvious reasons.
Derrell Johnson-Koulianos (DJK) had large expectations coming in as a freshman and it's safe to say every year he has improved in all facets of the game, and many people will contest that he was in Ferentz's doghouse; which cut into his playing time.
Adrian Clayborn's coming out party to me was in 2008 versus Iowa State with 7 tackles. No he didn't have any big "wow" plays, but he showed heart and was all-over the field. I remember sending a text to my brother during the rainy day saying, "Clayborn is a beast. He's going to be good." Clayborn's performances versus Penn State (twice) and Georgia Tech are memorable and won't be forgotten anytime soon.
Ricky Stanzi is near and dear to Hawkeye hearts everywhere, literally. He has been in so many nail-biting contests that Hawkeyes swear they've "had heart attacks during the 4th quarter." His maturity and leadership get rave reviews from Head Coach Kirk Ferentz. Let's hope he can lead the Hawkeyes to a few more wins this season, mainly 3 (meaning the Hawks win out).
Brent Greenwood might be a name that goes unnoticed but after starting and playing for 4 years he has been pivotal in many games. His interceptions late against Illinois in 2007 and Michigan in 2009 are stand out plays that sealed Ws for the Hawkeyes.
This class is memorable and the Hawkeye faithful should be thankful for the time and memories this class has produced.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Beef versus Brawn - Wisconsin Iowa Preview
The battle for the Heartland Trophy is set for a 2:30pm kickoff in Kinnick Stadium Saturday. Wisconsin comes off a win over then number 1 Ohio State, while Iowa looked both impressing and puzzling in their win over Michigan 38-28. The script for this game should continue just like the series has always been; low-scoring, lots of run plays, and hard collisions.
Offensive Keys -
Iowa's offensive line needs to come through this weekend in a big way. Adam Robinson has evolved into a 1st team Big Ten running back but Iowa hasn't faced a strong defensive line since Arizona. Time of possession will be critical for both teams, because the first defense that gets worn down Saturday, will likely mean a victory for the opposing team.
Iowa Hawkeyes Keys to Victory
Troy Johnson - Since Jeff Tarpinian is still struggling to get back to full speed, the man in the middle becomes more important versus Wisconsin. Johnson will meet 300 lbs. lineman head on and needs to be in position at all times to slow down the tandem of Clay and White. If the Iowa linebackers are being tied up by the Badgers, it could be a very close game to the wire.
Tyler Sash and Brent Greenwood - Both are important in run support this weekend as the Wisconsin offensive line is big and will take up the front 7 of the Hawks on running plays. Play-action passes are also keys to big plays down field and both safeties are responsible for not being beaten deep.
Adam Robinson - Robinson shined last week versus the porous Michigan defense and one can wish for that performance versus Wisconsin. If Robinson is able to get some running lanes the Iowa playbook opens up extensively. And Robinson will even be a larger factor if the rain comes down in Iowa City Saturday.
With rain looming in the forecast, line play will be as critical as ever. Fans will get a premium look at one of the best offensive lines versus the best defensive line in college football. If Iowa can force turnovers like last year, Hawk fans will leave Kinnick happy again this year. A big emphasis will be put on stopping the run for both teams, and winning the field position battle with special teams. For some reason I see Wisconsin starting hot against Iowa but then cooling off in the second half. The Hawkeyes will score a few touchdowns late and come away with a hard-fought win.
Prediction Iowa 28 Wisconsin 14
Offensive Keys -
Iowa's offensive line needs to come through this weekend in a big way. Adam Robinson has evolved into a 1st team Big Ten running back but Iowa hasn't faced a strong defensive line since Arizona. Time of possession will be critical for both teams, because the first defense that gets worn down Saturday, will likely mean a victory for the opposing team.
Iowa Hawkeyes Keys to Victory
Troy Johnson - Since Jeff Tarpinian is still struggling to get back to full speed, the man in the middle becomes more important versus Wisconsin. Johnson will meet 300 lbs. lineman head on and needs to be in position at all times to slow down the tandem of Clay and White. If the Iowa linebackers are being tied up by the Badgers, it could be a very close game to the wire.
Tyler Sash and Brent Greenwood - Both are important in run support this weekend as the Wisconsin offensive line is big and will take up the front 7 of the Hawks on running plays. Play-action passes are also keys to big plays down field and both safeties are responsible for not being beaten deep.
Adam Robinson - Robinson shined last week versus the porous Michigan defense and one can wish for that performance versus Wisconsin. If Robinson is able to get some running lanes the Iowa playbook opens up extensively. And Robinson will even be a larger factor if the rain comes down in Iowa City Saturday.
With rain looming in the forecast, line play will be as critical as ever. Fans will get a premium look at one of the best offensive lines versus the best defensive line in college football. If Iowa can force turnovers like last year, Hawk fans will leave Kinnick happy again this year. A big emphasis will be put on stopping the run for both teams, and winning the field position battle with special teams. For some reason I see Wisconsin starting hot against Iowa but then cooling off in the second half. The Hawkeyes will score a few touchdowns late and come away with a hard-fought win.
Prediction Iowa 28 Wisconsin 14
Half-Way Home
As the Hawkeyes roll towards an epic encounter with the Wisconsin Badgers Saturday, let's talk a look at the Hawkeyes as a whole.
Offensive MVP - Ricky Stanzi
I could have easily picked Derrell Johnson-Koulianos or Adam Robinson, but Ricky has shown he has progressed enough far enough to at least get a shot at the NFL. He ranks third in passing efficiency in the NCAA and his stats from the first 6 games last year are drastically better. Take a look
99-145, 1474 yards, 13 touchdowns, 2 interceptions, 180.50 quarterback rating
Last year he had 9 interceptions through 6 games including 2 pick-sixes. Stanzi has been a leader both on and off the field and one can't really blame him for the loss against Arizona. His grit and determination get him through most games. Credit his quick release to help the still young offensive line for the Hawks.
Defensive MVP - Adrian Clayborn
While his stats aren't mind-blowing (5 TFL, 1.5 sacks), the attention he gets from opposing teams creates gaps and 1 on 1 situations for his fellow defensive lineman (see Mike Daniels). He was nowhere to been seen in the desert on September 18, but his last 2 performances versus Penn State and Michigan have vaulted his status up again as one of the best defensive lineman in college football. I see a big 2nd half of the year for Clayborn.
With a 5-1 (2-0) record the Hawkeyes still have an outside shot at the National Championship if they win all their remaining games. The next 3 home games will all be versus nationally ranked teams which sets up nicely for Big Ten title hopes. The Hawks should still remain leery of early November road games at Indiana and then Northwestern, which both know how to put a scare into Hawkeye fans. All fans hope to see us clinch a Big Ten championship in Minnesota, which brings back sweet memories.....
Offensive MVP - Ricky Stanzi
I could have easily picked Derrell Johnson-Koulianos or Adam Robinson, but Ricky has shown he has progressed enough far enough to at least get a shot at the NFL. He ranks third in passing efficiency in the NCAA and his stats from the first 6 games last year are drastically better. Take a look
99-145, 1474 yards, 13 touchdowns, 2 interceptions, 180.50 quarterback rating
Last year he had 9 interceptions through 6 games including 2 pick-sixes. Stanzi has been a leader both on and off the field and one can't really blame him for the loss against Arizona. His grit and determination get him through most games. Credit his quick release to help the still young offensive line for the Hawks.
Defensive MVP - Adrian Clayborn
While his stats aren't mind-blowing (5 TFL, 1.5 sacks), the attention he gets from opposing teams creates gaps and 1 on 1 situations for his fellow defensive lineman (see Mike Daniels). He was nowhere to been seen in the desert on September 18, but his last 2 performances versus Penn State and Michigan have vaulted his status up again as one of the best defensive lineman in college football. I see a big 2nd half of the year for Clayborn.
With a 5-1 (2-0) record the Hawkeyes still have an outside shot at the National Championship if they win all their remaining games. The next 3 home games will all be versus nationally ranked teams which sets up nicely for Big Ten title hopes. The Hawks should still remain leery of early November road games at Indiana and then Northwestern, which both know how to put a scare into Hawkeye fans. All fans hope to see us clinch a Big Ten championship in Minnesota, which brings back sweet memories.....
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Night Games, an Event Unlike any Other
Kinnick Night Game Experience.
(Click for link)
As the Iowa Hawkeyes open their Big Ten schedule this Saturday at 7:05 p.m. against the Penn State Nittany Lions, one thing remains as sure as the sun rising in the East, Kinnick Stadium will be let loose. Fans are expected to wear black and gold in every other section to create a striped affair. Kinnick Stadium Sections courtesy of Hawkcentral.
The Hawkeyes are a favorite heading into Saturday's match-up for a good reason. Penn State's true freshman quarterback, Robert Bolden, will face his first true test of his young career on the road in Iowa City. That alone is a tough task for a veteran quarterback and Iowa's defense looked as stout as ever in last weeks dominating win over Ball State. Junior Mike Daniels is making a name for himself on the defensive line thanks to much part of Adrian Clayborn, who has been double-teamed all season long. The key for Penn State's offense is containing the line of scrimmage to open up room for running back Evan Royster.
Ricky Stanzi is been stellar thus far through four games, looking through his progression to find the open receiver. Derrell Johnson-Koulianos has had a stellar season and is on pace to break Iowa's school record in receptions and receiving yards. He will be a factor even if Marvin McNutt isn't at full speed for the contest. Adam Robinson is expected to play the entire game at running back with the backups not quite "Big Ten ready" as head coach Kirk Ferentz said.
When Saturday night ends in Kinnick Stadium, many fans throats will be sore, but it will be much to the satisfaction of a Hawkeye win.
Iowa Hawkeyes - 27 Penn State- 14
(Click for link)
As the Iowa Hawkeyes open their Big Ten schedule this Saturday at 7:05 p.m. against the Penn State Nittany Lions, one thing remains as sure as the sun rising in the East, Kinnick Stadium will be let loose. Fans are expected to wear black and gold in every other section to create a striped affair. Kinnick Stadium Sections courtesy of Hawkcentral.
The Hawkeyes are a favorite heading into Saturday's match-up for a good reason. Penn State's true freshman quarterback, Robert Bolden, will face his first true test of his young career on the road in Iowa City. That alone is a tough task for a veteran quarterback and Iowa's defense looked as stout as ever in last weeks dominating win over Ball State. Junior Mike Daniels is making a name for himself on the defensive line thanks to much part of Adrian Clayborn, who has been double-teamed all season long. The key for Penn State's offense is containing the line of scrimmage to open up room for running back Evan Royster.
Ricky Stanzi is been stellar thus far through four games, looking through his progression to find the open receiver. Derrell Johnson-Koulianos has had a stellar season and is on pace to break Iowa's school record in receptions and receiving yards. He will be a factor even if Marvin McNutt isn't at full speed for the contest. Adam Robinson is expected to play the entire game at running back with the backups not quite "Big Ten ready" as head coach Kirk Ferentz said.
When Saturday night ends in Kinnick Stadium, many fans throats will be sore, but it will be much to the satisfaction of a Hawkeye win.
Iowa Hawkeyes - 27 Penn State- 14
Saturday, September 18, 2010
The Tussle in Tuscon
As Iowa prepares for their game against 24th ranked Arizona, one question remains. Just how good is Arizona? Yes, we've looked at the stats, heard about them outscoring their opponents 93-8. The fact remains they beat Toledo, and The Citadel. The Wildcats offense is explosive, but they have yet to face a defense like Iowa. In last years meeting, which Iowa won 27-17, Iowa's defense flew all over the field and played very well in an early season test.
This years game should be more dynamic as the build up for the night game in Tuscon has been all over news nationally. Currently, Arizona remains a slight favorite over the Hawkeyes but look for Iowa to continue what they have been doing well all season; pounding the rock with Adam Robinson and now Jewel Hampton. They have been very much a ball-controlling offense stealing the clock away from their opponents. Look for Iowa to try to continue that trend against the speedy Arizona defense.
Iowa's defense knows they have to be ball-hawks today as Arizona likes to spread it out and create mismatches on the outside. The most important factor for the Wildcat offense is to try to contain the Iowa defensive line. While they are not overally big, Iowa's d-line is quick, well-coached, and never gets out of position. It should be an interesting tussle as the game gets under away at 9:30 CT.
Prediction- Iowa 24 Arizona 20
This years game should be more dynamic as the build up for the night game in Tuscon has been all over news nationally. Currently, Arizona remains a slight favorite over the Hawkeyes but look for Iowa to continue what they have been doing well all season; pounding the rock with Adam Robinson and now Jewel Hampton. They have been very much a ball-controlling offense stealing the clock away from their opponents. Look for Iowa to try to continue that trend against the speedy Arizona defense.
Iowa's defense knows they have to be ball-hawks today as Arizona likes to spread it out and create mismatches on the outside. The most important factor for the Wildcat offense is to try to contain the Iowa defensive line. While they are not overally big, Iowa's d-line is quick, well-coached, and never gets out of position. It should be an interesting tussle as the game gets under away at 9:30 CT.
Prediction- Iowa 24 Arizona 20
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
An circle takes the square.
Rafael Nadal completed his "career Grand Slam" Monday night in Flushing Meadows, New York. Throughout the U.S. Open Nadal's game was tantalizing. Just two days before the tournament back on August 28th, he began practicing bigger, faster serves. This crucial element was lacking in his game, because normally he would simply spin his serves in. With a new powerful serve in place, Nadal's game was imposed on his opponents. He already has been labeled the fittest man in tennis, but this Grand Slam was different. The Spaniard rarely was pushed and always had plenty of fuel left in the tank.
Monday night while facing Novak Djokovic, he controlled the rallies and bullied Novak side to side. Even when Djokovic won the second set, Nadal never appeared threatened. He simply kept going about his business and chasing history to become the youngest male tennis player to achieve the career Grand Slam (winning all 4 Grand Slams). And at 24 years of age, one simply has to ask, how much longer till he overtakes Roger Federer (with 16 Grand Slams) even with a 7 slam advantage. Look out tennis world, Nadal is just entering his prime.
Monday night while facing Novak Djokovic, he controlled the rallies and bullied Novak side to side. Even when Djokovic won the second set, Nadal never appeared threatened. He simply kept going about his business and chasing history to become the youngest male tennis player to achieve the career Grand Slam (winning all 4 Grand Slams). And at 24 years of age, one simply has to ask, how much longer till he overtakes Roger Federer (with 16 Grand Slams) even with a 7 slam advantage. Look out tennis world, Nadal is just entering his prime.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Assessing the Iowa - Iowa State Game
Finally the week has arrived for all Hawkeye and Cyclone fans to do battle. Iowa State opened with a win over Northern Illinois last Thursday, and looked fairly sharp while doing it. Alexander Robinson looked impressive running the ball and will be a huge key for the Cyclones if they hope to upset the ninth-ranked Iowa Hawkeyes.
Iowa looked impressive in spurts versus Eastern Illinois, particularly early in the first when all three phases of the game, (offense, defense, and special teams) were clicking on all cylinders.
When thinking about this week's game, a recurring thought of turnover battle rolls into my head. Typically, the team that wins the turnover battle will win the game. Iowa State was on the wrong end last year giving the ball away 6 times. However, this is a new year and here are my thoughts for the 2:30pm kickoff Saturday in Kinnick Stadium, Iowa City, Iowa.
Adam Robinson & Jewel Hampton (Iowa) - If Iowa's offensive line can create holes for either of the running backs ISU could be in for a long day. Hampton has been credited for looking "explosive" during practice and Iowa fans hope to see a few long runs throughout the day.
Trent Mossbrucker (Iowa) - Daniel Murray is still listed off the depth chart so a few key field goal attempts could fall Mossbrucker's way. He has rarely been used besides extra points but his leg could swing the victory.
Bruce Davis (Iowa) - He started at middle linebacker for the Hawks last Saturday and will be counted on heavily to sniff out the Cyclones zone read from shotgun.
Alexander Robinson (ISU) - He ran very well against Iowa last year and the Cyclones will depend heavily on a repeat performance. However, Iowa's D-line has emphasized how disgusted their performance was against the rushing attack of ISU last year.
Austen Arnaud (ISU) - 10 completions on 22 attempts for 79 yards.....and 4 interceptions. Arnaud is stressing he's over last years game, but you never know how memories could sneak back in during game day.
Prediction - Iowa 24 Iowa State- 13.
Iowa looked impressive in spurts versus Eastern Illinois, particularly early in the first when all three phases of the game, (offense, defense, and special teams) were clicking on all cylinders.
When thinking about this week's game, a recurring thought of turnover battle rolls into my head. Typically, the team that wins the turnover battle will win the game. Iowa State was on the wrong end last year giving the ball away 6 times. However, this is a new year and here are my thoughts for the 2:30pm kickoff Saturday in Kinnick Stadium, Iowa City, Iowa.
Adam Robinson & Jewel Hampton (Iowa) - If Iowa's offensive line can create holes for either of the running backs ISU could be in for a long day. Hampton has been credited for looking "explosive" during practice and Iowa fans hope to see a few long runs throughout the day.
Trent Mossbrucker (Iowa) - Daniel Murray is still listed off the depth chart so a few key field goal attempts could fall Mossbrucker's way. He has rarely been used besides extra points but his leg could swing the victory.
Bruce Davis (Iowa) - He started at middle linebacker for the Hawks last Saturday and will be counted on heavily to sniff out the Cyclones zone read from shotgun.
Alexander Robinson (ISU) - He ran very well against Iowa last year and the Cyclones will depend heavily on a repeat performance. However, Iowa's D-line has emphasized how disgusted their performance was against the rushing attack of ISU last year.
Austen Arnaud (ISU) - 10 completions on 22 attempts for 79 yards.....and 4 interceptions. Arnaud is stressing he's over last years game, but you never know how memories could sneak back in during game day.
Prediction - Iowa 24 Iowa State- 13.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Big Ten's Realignment
Big Ten commissioner Jim Delany unveiled the new conference's realignment in football terms with "X" and "O". The divisions are as followed
"O" - Iowa, Michigan, Michigan State, Minnesota, Nebraska, and Northwestern.
"X" - Illinois, Indiana, Ohio State, Penn State, Purdue, and Wisconsin.
As a Hawkeye fan I am both pleased and perplexed with the divisions. Less Ohio State is good, but now the Iowa Hawkeyes won't play one of their biggest rivals (maybe their biggest lately) Wisconsin. Iowa-Wisconsin games have always been a physical battle with the winner taking home the "Heartland Trophy". However, with losing the Wisconsin game till at least 2013, Iowa can look forward to ending every season with Nebraska. The Iowa-Nebraska fans have been asking to play each other for quite sometime now, and it will finally take place in 2011.
Thoughts on the division as a whole
Both will be competitive, but I feel the O division will be more balanced. On the plus side Iowa only faces 2 true spread teams in Michigan and Northwestern. It goes without saying that spread offenses usually give the Iowa defense fits because they spread out the defense and take short passes to slowly move the chains. Iowa preserved their storied rivalry with Minnesota which all fans wanted. That leaves Michigan State as our other division opponent. Lately the Michigan State games have been very competitive. 2007 was a double-overtime win, 08 was a late 4th quarter loss, and 09 was a last play of the game win.
Overall, I think the Iowa fans should be happy with the divisions. It won't be easy by any means, but I think we should have success in the years to come.
Tune in for more information later....
"O" - Iowa, Michigan, Michigan State, Minnesota, Nebraska, and Northwestern.
"X" - Illinois, Indiana, Ohio State, Penn State, Purdue, and Wisconsin.
As a Hawkeye fan I am both pleased and perplexed with the divisions. Less Ohio State is good, but now the Iowa Hawkeyes won't play one of their biggest rivals (maybe their biggest lately) Wisconsin. Iowa-Wisconsin games have always been a physical battle with the winner taking home the "Heartland Trophy". However, with losing the Wisconsin game till at least 2013, Iowa can look forward to ending every season with Nebraska. The Iowa-Nebraska fans have been asking to play each other for quite sometime now, and it will finally take place in 2011.
Thoughts on the division as a whole
Both will be competitive, but I feel the O division will be more balanced. On the plus side Iowa only faces 2 true spread teams in Michigan and Northwestern. It goes without saying that spread offenses usually give the Iowa defense fits because they spread out the defense and take short passes to slowly move the chains. Iowa preserved their storied rivalry with Minnesota which all fans wanted. That leaves Michigan State as our other division opponent. Lately the Michigan State games have been very competitive. 2007 was a double-overtime win, 08 was a late 4th quarter loss, and 09 was a last play of the game win.
Overall, I think the Iowa fans should be happy with the divisions. It won't be easy by any means, but I think we should have success in the years to come.
Tune in for more information later....
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