Where does Iowa land in the Polls? I predicted 26 right? Even the coaches and sportswriters can't be that dumb. Seven Top 25 teams lost this weekend and four more scraped by. #4 Ole Miss lost to The Ole Ball Coach (South Carolina) whom Iowa thumped in the Outback Bowl way back on January 1st. Iowa owned #5 Penn State after the first quarter and anyone who disagrees with this statement didn't watch the game. Oregon punched #6 Cal in the face (not really they suspended that guy) 42 to 3. Virgina Tech destroyed "The U" 31 to 7. Unfortunately this actually makes Nebraska look better. Jim Leavitt's USF team dismantled #18 FSU with their backup QB. Georgia Tech soundly beat North Carolina 24 to 7 signaling it is time for basketball season in Chapel Hill. And #24 Washington looked like, well 0-12 Washington following up their huge upset of USC by losing by 20 to the mighty Stanford Cardinal. Great job with that ranking last week sportswriters. #7 LSU needed a goalline stand to hold off an upset bid by Mississippi State. BF Mangino must have eaten his gameplan as Southern Miss gave#20 KU a scare. #21 Georgia needed a field goal with no time remaining to avoid OT against Arizona State. #23 Michigan needed help from the zebras to hold off Indiana in a 36 to 33 shootout. And Texas Tech mismanaged the clock when all they needed was a field goal to beat # 17 Houston- final score Houston 29 TTU 28.
With the hatred of the Big Ten Michigan is likely to fall out. Penn State might fall out of the Top 15 and Iowa is likely to still be ranked behind them. I think Iowa might crack the top 20 but wouldn't be shocked to see them ranked 21. Ohio State is likely to be the only Big Ten team ranked in the Top Ten for the next three weeks.
Bowman, Odrick, and Royster are good- I don't think that Sean Lee would have been enough of a difference maker in this game to change the result. Bowman is a fantastic player. He is even better than I thought. Odrick played well and it is a testament to Iowa's coaching staff that we didn't hear his name more often. Royster is also better than I remember. He ran tough and did the best he could often requiring three or four Hawks to bring him down. The fumble was less his fault than an outstanding play by Angerer. I was also very impressed by Derek Moye, Chaz Powell, Andrew Quarless- much better with the ball in his hands than I expected, D'Anton Lynn is a very good player and will only get better. Stefon Green is also much better than I thought. Daryll Clark had a tough game but I still have a ton of respect for him. Hopefully he never makes another promise he can't keep. I wish Penn State nothing but success. Unless Iowa loses a game. Then they need to lose one more.
The Oline: Iowa's offensive line is really coming together much sooner than I expected. Riley Reiff, again, is playing so well Iowa may have to find a spot for him. Next season he may have to move to Right Tackle if Bulaga comes back which is looking more likely as Bulaga has missed 3 consecutive games. I don't look for Bulaga or Moeaki to play significant minutes against Arkansas State if at all. I thought Vandervelde and Calloway dominated the second half.
If the passing game clicks Look Out: The Hawks could be downright scary if they could get the passing game clicking. I thought Stanzi actually played very well last night. I don't think all of the errant throws were his fault, some of those could have been on the receivers and it was pretty crappy conditions. Iowa is 4-0 with out a complete game from a very talented quarterback. The recievers are still learning their trade and we are missing a vital cog in Tony Moeaki. There is plenty of room for improvement and I think it will improve. Believe it or not Arkansas State has a pretty good defense and a very good pass rush. It will be a nice test for Iowa and we should concentrate on getting the passing game on track.
Robinson and Wegher: I continue to be impressed with the poise and ability of these two. These guys seem to be very similar and are growing before our eyes. Wegher's explosiveness and acceleration are incredible though and I keep waiting of him to bust a long gain. I hope he waits for Big Ten play to do it. Robinson seems to be more suited to be the "mail carrier". His vision and patience are improving each week and he is running more physically every week. I would like to see Brinson get some carries this week to see if he offers a change of pace.
That is it other than these tidbits- Iowa has never been undefeated in September under Kirk Ferentz. Iowa has not given up a rushing touchdown in 29 quarters or since the Penn State game from 2008. Iowa has an 8 game winning streak which I believe is 2nd longest in the nation to Florida.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Friday, September 25, 2009
Matchups Vs. Penn State
This is going to be a pretty elaborate and probably overdone post. I know I have been told to make these smaller but it just isn't my style. Anyway I am basically breaking the game down position by position and giving a prediction at the end. I wrote this earlier in the week and some injury news has changed the complexion of some of these matchups so I am adjusting on the fly. Here we go.
Richardson 78, Eubanks 52, Vandervelde 63 ( Gettis 73) vs Odrick 91, Ogbu 85, Still 71 : This may be the key to the entire offense for the Hawks. If PSU can shut down the running game and pressure Stanzi from the inside- game over. This will be Richardson's, Eubanks', and Vandervelde's third game in a row together. They mujst get a push on these big and explosive tackles for Iowa's run game to be effective. They must also handle them in one on one situations and pick up inside blitzers because right now it seems like Stanzi is easily rattled by early pressure. Odrick is more of a "3 technique" tackle meaning he lines up over a guard and looks to disrupt and create pressure. He will belong to one guard in pass protection. He must be handled. Ogbu is more of a Nose and could be doubled initially. Odrick is clearly the higher priority but both must be accounted for. Still is a big guy (6'5 305) but still learing his trade and is more of a space eater at this point in his career.
Bulaga 79/ Reiff 77, Calloway 60 vs Crawford 81, Lattimore 56, Hayes 5 : First I am pretty sure that Bulaga isn't playing. Reiff has done a very nice job of filling in and probably has an easier match up this week. But that wasn't with 110k crazed fans making it impossible to hear audibles and really need your silent count. Bulaga has been there. Reiff will be matched up with Crawford who is PSU's second most physically gifted defensive lineman. His stats are nothing to write home about especially given the level of competition that PSU has played. He is a big (6'5 262), rangy athlete who can be explosive off the edge. He will only be starting his fourth game however. Calloway will be matched up with Lattimore and Hayes who he should be able to dominate in the run game. Calloway is fighting a lingering knee injury and he has had a little trouble with defending speed moves. Lattimore is much more threatening in that capacity.
Spud's Spin: I think that Iowa's offensive line could actually wear down Penn State's d-line if Iowa can establish the run. I also think that PSU will have to blitz to get pressure on Stanzi, I don't think PSU's front four can consistently beat Iowa's pass protection. Edge Iowa.
Moeaki 81 vs. Bowman 11, Gbadyu 15 : Moeaki isn't sure to start and not even sure to play. Neither is Bowman. That is really too bad for us fans. Moeaki is a crushing blocker and rarely misses an assignment. As well as Reisner played in the passing game last week, it is easy to see that Moeaki is Stanzi's security blanket. Herman needs time to grow into Tony's shoes in the two tight end sets and isn't yet a match for Bowman. Bowman is everything you would desire in a strongside linebacker. He is fast, agile, instinctive and a punishing tackler. He is comfortable in space and a playmaker- he causes turnovers. If he isn't sufficiently recovered from his groin pull to go or the track is to sloppy to risk re-injuring it Gbadyu is probably going to be his replacement. Gdabyu does have some starting experience but he isn't close to the athlete that Bowman is. PSU is really hurting at linebacker.
Morse 36, Reisner 82 (Herman 39) vs. Hull 45 (Mlb), Lee 45 (wlb) (Stupar 34) (Colasanti 48): I really don't know who is going to man the weakside for PSU. I think I know Hull is going to play mike. If Lee can't go and Stupar can't go I have no idea I just threw Colasanti out there because he has experience. the Penn State message boards' hate him but that usually means nothing. Lee is outstanding, an All-American candidate when healthy. This week he was supposed to be able to move back to his more natural weak side position with the return of Bowman, but he suffered a knee sprain against Temple. It is tough to replace a player of his caliber. I don't think that Morse has missed an assignment this season. He has also really flashed as receiver. Reisner played very well against Arizona, especially in the passing game, but he isn't the dominating run blocker that Morse or Moeaki are. Herman is steadily improving his game and really impressed me with his blocking in the second half of the Arizona game. I am not sure a pass has even been thrown his way yet this season.
Spud's spin: I think that Iowa might have the edge here also given the overall health of Penn State's unit. If both Lee and Bowman were 100% this would be a no doubter. Even without Moeaki I give the edge to Iowa.
DJK 15, McNutt 7, Stross 86, Chaney 26, Sandeman 22, Davis 6 vs. Timmons 4, Lynn 8, Wallace 1 : Lynn is a sophmore but he has beaten out all everything recruit A.J. Wallace who hasn't seen the field as much as you might think. Timmons is a speedster but he is also short on experience. This could be a very big edge for Iowa, especially given the secondary they just faced in Arizona. The Wildcat's were certainly more physical and possibly faster, and definately more experienced. Penn State tends to play alot of zone coverages but these guys all have the ability to play man. If PSU does play man Iowa must attack and execute with double moves. If Stanzi has time he must take shots downfield and make these guys beat him.
Spud's Spin: Iowa's biggest advantage may be the sheer numbers of players that they can throw at PSU. Even if DJK can't go Iowa has at least 5 solid options to try and wear out three corners and we all know Iowa receivers block or they don't play. Iowa needs to have Zero dropped passes out of this unit.
Stanzi 12, Robinson 32, Wegher 3 vs. Astorino 28, Sukay 14 : Stanzi must play his best game of the season so far. He needs to understand what PSU is trying to do and the easiest way to do that is by seeing where PSU's safties line up. Robinson and Wegher are only going to have a few opportunities to make big plays and when they happen it will come down to winning a physical battle with one of these safeties in space. Astorino and Sukay are heady players but I am not sure they are intimidating in any way. Arizona's safeties were much better in coverage while I would give PSU's the edge in run support. These two won't miss a lot of tackles and they generally know where they are supposed to be on the field. I just wonder if they won't be trying to do to much with all of the injuries to the linebacking corps.
Spud's Spin: If Iowa gets "2nd half Ricky" for the whole game this edge goes to Iowa. If Astorino and Sukay trust there players and play their scheme I give the edge to PSU. The wildcard is the play of two freshman Tbs. I think one of them will come up huge so I give the edge to Iowa.
Clayborn 94, Binns 91 vs. Landolt 73 Lt, Pannell 50 Rt : Landolt has moved from right tackle to left and is more of a mauler than a technician. He doesn't have the feet to keep Clayborn off of Clark's back in the passing game and will require help. In the run game it is important for Clayborn to set the edge and hold his contain responsibilities as PSU has a ton of weapons and attack the edge in a variety of ways. Pannell has been the best of the replacements for PSU. He is a very good run blocker and hasn't really been tested yet in the passing game. Binns has been solid to spectacular. He is a natural pass rusher and has done a very good job of holding his discipline on his contain responsibilities. He is capable of physically winning this match up.
Spud's spin: No matter how well Pannell plays I don't think that Landolt can match up with Clayborn. I also think Binns is capable of having an excellent performance in this game. As much as Iowa runs twists these two must be salivating when they watch film of PSU's guard play. Edge Iowa
Ballard 46, Klug 95 (Daniels 93) vs. Troutman 74, Wisniewski 61, Eliades77 (Stankiewitch 54): Penn State's interior has been much maligned against inferior competition. Last week their running game seemed to get on track with the insertion of Johnnie Troutman at Left Guard. He was credited with being a little more physical and nasty than red shirt freshman Stankiewitch. Penn State runs a lot of man vs man blocking schemes and does a lot of pulling and down blocking. This should give both Klug and Ballard opportunities to get into the backfield and be disruptive. They must make plays when they get there not just flash and make Royster or Green make a move. Wisniewski is a very good player but is making line calls for the first time in his college career.
Spud's Spin: I have already said that I think that this season's D-line is better than last season's and this game will either show why or make me look like a fool. I think that Ballard and Klug could dominate this game. King lived in PSU's backfield last season and that was against a talented veteran O-line. I think the Hawks physicality will suprise and wear down PSU oline and kill their will.
Angerer 43 vs Royster 22, Green 21: This is mostly for the run game. If the D-line keeps Angerer clean this could be the kind of game where Angerer collects 15-20 tackle as he can really move sideline to sideline. Royster and Green also really work the middle of the field in the passing game which is where Angerer patrols. Royster is easlily the best TB in the Big XI. He is patient, intelligent, has good hands, he is slippery and he has a better burst than people give him credit for. Green is pretty much just a speed guy right now. He needs some more time to develop better vision. He is a big play waiting to happen in space though.
Spud's Spin: I give the edge to PSU here as much as I respect Angerer. Royster is tough for any one to bring down one on one and I think it is possible that PSU can scheme to make this happen. What I am afraid of is where these match ups will happen at the LOS or 4-5 past it.
Hunter 42 vs. Quarless 10, Shuler 82: Generally your strongside Lb lines up over the TE but I expect a lot of three wide from Penn State so that means Edds over the slot. Hunter can dominate Quarless in the run game. Quarless is an assett in the passing game but he is not explosive in his stance and not a physical player. He is more of a get in your way kind of run blocker. Quarless can get down the seam in a hurry, once he gets moving he gets to full speed quickly. He reminds me of Scott Chandler only with lesser hands. Mickey Shuler is a better blocker and not quite the athlete that Quarless is but he seems to always be open and catch whatever passes are thrown his way.
Spud's Spin: Hunter is much more physically gifted than either one of these players. He can cover them and I don't think either one of them can consistently block him. Big Edge Iowa.
Edds 49, Spievey 19, Prater 28, Lowe 10 vs. Zug 5, Moye 6, Powell 2, Brackett 83, Smith 20: Zug may be hurt but Powell and Moye have impressed me more so far anyway. Anyone of the three line up in the slot. PSU uses alot of bunch formations. Edds must be able to sift through traffic and cover the flat if Iowa is in cover 3. He must also set the edge in the run game if they are running to the outside in that formation. PSU would be stupid to test Spievey so Prater should expect to be busy. Both Prater and Lowe have been impressive so far but this will be their toughest test easily this early season. Powell really scares me.
Spud's Spin: I give the nod to PSU here because I think they run the same basic scheme's as Iowa and should have a decent idea of how to exploit them. If they have done their homework and avoid Spievey long day for Iowa. Edge PSU
Sash 9, Greenwood 30 vs. Clark 17 : How patient will Clark be? Is he going to try to win last years game this season? Clark is the best qb in the Big XI no doubt. But he doesn't have last season's o-line or wr group and Iowa's secondary is much improved. Both Sash and Greenwood are much better than they were last season and they are able to concentrate much more on their pass responsiblities now. Clark and Greenwood have started the same number of games.
Spud's Spin: I will give the nod to Clark but not by as much as you might think. If the weather is really as crappy as forecasted and Clark is running for his life I expect "The Vulture" to feed at least once and for Clark to avoid the middle of the field and try to win the game with his legs. He is capable of doing that.
Some Terrible Predictions:
1. Iowa has come out throwing the ball. Not Saturday night. I think they line up in I formation with the tight end on the left side and run zones to the weak (Calloway's side) early and often. Even if Bowman and Lee are on the field I think this is what you will see.
2. The return of the Bubble Screen- probably with Chaney or McNutt as the targets. Possibly run as many as 4 times.
3. Iowa will not play alot of Nickel or Dime formations defensively. The weakness of PSU's Oline will allow Iowa to pressure Clark with their front four alone and play coverage with the back seven.
4. If either team takes a lead of 15+ the game is over. Neither team has an explosive enough offensive to overcome the defense they are facing this week. I don't care if this happens 5 minutes into the first quarter.
5. Tyler Sash will pick off a pass and return it at least 30 yards and have it negated by a personal foul when someone blocks Clark.
What has to happen for Iowa to win:
Iowa must control both lines of scrimmage. Stanzi can't turn the ball over in the first 2 possessions. Reiff and Calloway cannot leave the game. Iowa cannot drop passes on third down. Iowa's offensive line cannot be called for more than three penalties. Iowa's specail teams cannot give up any momentum building plays. Iowa must start out strong- 110k wet drunk people turn either bitter or silent after about a 1/2 hour. Mistake free boring football can accomplish this. Iowa must score more points than Penn State.
Spud's Spin: Hawks 27 Lions 9 and we move up to 26 in the AP poll.
Richardson 78, Eubanks 52, Vandervelde 63 ( Gettis 73) vs Odrick 91, Ogbu 85, Still 71 : This may be the key to the entire offense for the Hawks. If PSU can shut down the running game and pressure Stanzi from the inside- game over. This will be Richardson's, Eubanks', and Vandervelde's third game in a row together. They mujst get a push on these big and explosive tackles for Iowa's run game to be effective. They must also handle them in one on one situations and pick up inside blitzers because right now it seems like Stanzi is easily rattled by early pressure. Odrick is more of a "3 technique" tackle meaning he lines up over a guard and looks to disrupt and create pressure. He will belong to one guard in pass protection. He must be handled. Ogbu is more of a Nose and could be doubled initially. Odrick is clearly the higher priority but both must be accounted for. Still is a big guy (6'5 305) but still learing his trade and is more of a space eater at this point in his career.
Bulaga 79/ Reiff 77, Calloway 60 vs Crawford 81, Lattimore 56, Hayes 5 : First I am pretty sure that Bulaga isn't playing. Reiff has done a very nice job of filling in and probably has an easier match up this week. But that wasn't with 110k crazed fans making it impossible to hear audibles and really need your silent count. Bulaga has been there. Reiff will be matched up with Crawford who is PSU's second most physically gifted defensive lineman. His stats are nothing to write home about especially given the level of competition that PSU has played. He is a big (6'5 262), rangy athlete who can be explosive off the edge. He will only be starting his fourth game however. Calloway will be matched up with Lattimore and Hayes who he should be able to dominate in the run game. Calloway is fighting a lingering knee injury and he has had a little trouble with defending speed moves. Lattimore is much more threatening in that capacity.
Spud's Spin: I think that Iowa's offensive line could actually wear down Penn State's d-line if Iowa can establish the run. I also think that PSU will have to blitz to get pressure on Stanzi, I don't think PSU's front four can consistently beat Iowa's pass protection. Edge Iowa.
Moeaki 81 vs. Bowman 11, Gbadyu 15 : Moeaki isn't sure to start and not even sure to play. Neither is Bowman. That is really too bad for us fans. Moeaki is a crushing blocker and rarely misses an assignment. As well as Reisner played in the passing game last week, it is easy to see that Moeaki is Stanzi's security blanket. Herman needs time to grow into Tony's shoes in the two tight end sets and isn't yet a match for Bowman. Bowman is everything you would desire in a strongside linebacker. He is fast, agile, instinctive and a punishing tackler. He is comfortable in space and a playmaker- he causes turnovers. If he isn't sufficiently recovered from his groin pull to go or the track is to sloppy to risk re-injuring it Gbadyu is probably going to be his replacement. Gdabyu does have some starting experience but he isn't close to the athlete that Bowman is. PSU is really hurting at linebacker.
Morse 36, Reisner 82 (Herman 39) vs. Hull 45 (Mlb), Lee 45 (wlb) (Stupar 34) (Colasanti 48): I really don't know who is going to man the weakside for PSU. I think I know Hull is going to play mike. If Lee can't go and Stupar can't go I have no idea I just threw Colasanti out there because he has experience. the Penn State message boards' hate him but that usually means nothing. Lee is outstanding, an All-American candidate when healthy. This week he was supposed to be able to move back to his more natural weak side position with the return of Bowman, but he suffered a knee sprain against Temple. It is tough to replace a player of his caliber. I don't think that Morse has missed an assignment this season. He has also really flashed as receiver. Reisner played very well against Arizona, especially in the passing game, but he isn't the dominating run blocker that Morse or Moeaki are. Herman is steadily improving his game and really impressed me with his blocking in the second half of the Arizona game. I am not sure a pass has even been thrown his way yet this season.
Spud's spin: I think that Iowa might have the edge here also given the overall health of Penn State's unit. If both Lee and Bowman were 100% this would be a no doubter. Even without Moeaki I give the edge to Iowa.
DJK 15, McNutt 7, Stross 86, Chaney 26, Sandeman 22, Davis 6 vs. Timmons 4, Lynn 8, Wallace 1 : Lynn is a sophmore but he has beaten out all everything recruit A.J. Wallace who hasn't seen the field as much as you might think. Timmons is a speedster but he is also short on experience. This could be a very big edge for Iowa, especially given the secondary they just faced in Arizona. The Wildcat's were certainly more physical and possibly faster, and definately more experienced. Penn State tends to play alot of zone coverages but these guys all have the ability to play man. If PSU does play man Iowa must attack and execute with double moves. If Stanzi has time he must take shots downfield and make these guys beat him.
Spud's Spin: Iowa's biggest advantage may be the sheer numbers of players that they can throw at PSU. Even if DJK can't go Iowa has at least 5 solid options to try and wear out three corners and we all know Iowa receivers block or they don't play. Iowa needs to have Zero dropped passes out of this unit.
Stanzi 12, Robinson 32, Wegher 3 vs. Astorino 28, Sukay 14 : Stanzi must play his best game of the season so far. He needs to understand what PSU is trying to do and the easiest way to do that is by seeing where PSU's safties line up. Robinson and Wegher are only going to have a few opportunities to make big plays and when they happen it will come down to winning a physical battle with one of these safeties in space. Astorino and Sukay are heady players but I am not sure they are intimidating in any way. Arizona's safeties were much better in coverage while I would give PSU's the edge in run support. These two won't miss a lot of tackles and they generally know where they are supposed to be on the field. I just wonder if they won't be trying to do to much with all of the injuries to the linebacking corps.
Spud's Spin: If Iowa gets "2nd half Ricky" for the whole game this edge goes to Iowa. If Astorino and Sukay trust there players and play their scheme I give the edge to PSU. The wildcard is the play of two freshman Tbs. I think one of them will come up huge so I give the edge to Iowa.
Clayborn 94, Binns 91 vs. Landolt 73 Lt, Pannell 50 Rt : Landolt has moved from right tackle to left and is more of a mauler than a technician. He doesn't have the feet to keep Clayborn off of Clark's back in the passing game and will require help. In the run game it is important for Clayborn to set the edge and hold his contain responsibilities as PSU has a ton of weapons and attack the edge in a variety of ways. Pannell has been the best of the replacements for PSU. He is a very good run blocker and hasn't really been tested yet in the passing game. Binns has been solid to spectacular. He is a natural pass rusher and has done a very good job of holding his discipline on his contain responsibilities. He is capable of physically winning this match up.
Spud's spin: No matter how well Pannell plays I don't think that Landolt can match up with Clayborn. I also think Binns is capable of having an excellent performance in this game. As much as Iowa runs twists these two must be salivating when they watch film of PSU's guard play. Edge Iowa
Ballard 46, Klug 95 (Daniels 93) vs. Troutman 74, Wisniewski 61, Eliades77 (Stankiewitch 54): Penn State's interior has been much maligned against inferior competition. Last week their running game seemed to get on track with the insertion of Johnnie Troutman at Left Guard. He was credited with being a little more physical and nasty than red shirt freshman Stankiewitch. Penn State runs a lot of man vs man blocking schemes and does a lot of pulling and down blocking. This should give both Klug and Ballard opportunities to get into the backfield and be disruptive. They must make plays when they get there not just flash and make Royster or Green make a move. Wisniewski is a very good player but is making line calls for the first time in his college career.
Spud's Spin: I have already said that I think that this season's D-line is better than last season's and this game will either show why or make me look like a fool. I think that Ballard and Klug could dominate this game. King lived in PSU's backfield last season and that was against a talented veteran O-line. I think the Hawks physicality will suprise and wear down PSU oline and kill their will.
Angerer 43 vs Royster 22, Green 21: This is mostly for the run game. If the D-line keeps Angerer clean this could be the kind of game where Angerer collects 15-20 tackle as he can really move sideline to sideline. Royster and Green also really work the middle of the field in the passing game which is where Angerer patrols. Royster is easlily the best TB in the Big XI. He is patient, intelligent, has good hands, he is slippery and he has a better burst than people give him credit for. Green is pretty much just a speed guy right now. He needs some more time to develop better vision. He is a big play waiting to happen in space though.
Spud's Spin: I give the edge to PSU here as much as I respect Angerer. Royster is tough for any one to bring down one on one and I think it is possible that PSU can scheme to make this happen. What I am afraid of is where these match ups will happen at the LOS or 4-5 past it.
Hunter 42 vs. Quarless 10, Shuler 82: Generally your strongside Lb lines up over the TE but I expect a lot of three wide from Penn State so that means Edds over the slot. Hunter can dominate Quarless in the run game. Quarless is an assett in the passing game but he is not explosive in his stance and not a physical player. He is more of a get in your way kind of run blocker. Quarless can get down the seam in a hurry, once he gets moving he gets to full speed quickly. He reminds me of Scott Chandler only with lesser hands. Mickey Shuler is a better blocker and not quite the athlete that Quarless is but he seems to always be open and catch whatever passes are thrown his way.
Spud's Spin: Hunter is much more physically gifted than either one of these players. He can cover them and I don't think either one of them can consistently block him. Big Edge Iowa.
Edds 49, Spievey 19, Prater 28, Lowe 10 vs. Zug 5, Moye 6, Powell 2, Brackett 83, Smith 20: Zug may be hurt but Powell and Moye have impressed me more so far anyway. Anyone of the three line up in the slot. PSU uses alot of bunch formations. Edds must be able to sift through traffic and cover the flat if Iowa is in cover 3. He must also set the edge in the run game if they are running to the outside in that formation. PSU would be stupid to test Spievey so Prater should expect to be busy. Both Prater and Lowe have been impressive so far but this will be their toughest test easily this early season. Powell really scares me.
Spud's Spin: I give the nod to PSU here because I think they run the same basic scheme's as Iowa and should have a decent idea of how to exploit them. If they have done their homework and avoid Spievey long day for Iowa. Edge PSU
Sash 9, Greenwood 30 vs. Clark 17 : How patient will Clark be? Is he going to try to win last years game this season? Clark is the best qb in the Big XI no doubt. But he doesn't have last season's o-line or wr group and Iowa's secondary is much improved. Both Sash and Greenwood are much better than they were last season and they are able to concentrate much more on their pass responsiblities now. Clark and Greenwood have started the same number of games.
Spud's Spin: I will give the nod to Clark but not by as much as you might think. If the weather is really as crappy as forecasted and Clark is running for his life I expect "The Vulture" to feed at least once and for Clark to avoid the middle of the field and try to win the game with his legs. He is capable of doing that.
Some Terrible Predictions:
1. Iowa has come out throwing the ball. Not Saturday night. I think they line up in I formation with the tight end on the left side and run zones to the weak (Calloway's side) early and often. Even if Bowman and Lee are on the field I think this is what you will see.
2. The return of the Bubble Screen- probably with Chaney or McNutt as the targets. Possibly run as many as 4 times.
3. Iowa will not play alot of Nickel or Dime formations defensively. The weakness of PSU's Oline will allow Iowa to pressure Clark with their front four alone and play coverage with the back seven.
4. If either team takes a lead of 15+ the game is over. Neither team has an explosive enough offensive to overcome the defense they are facing this week. I don't care if this happens 5 minutes into the first quarter.
5. Tyler Sash will pick off a pass and return it at least 30 yards and have it negated by a personal foul when someone blocks Clark.
What has to happen for Iowa to win:
Iowa must control both lines of scrimmage. Stanzi can't turn the ball over in the first 2 possessions. Reiff and Calloway cannot leave the game. Iowa cannot drop passes on third down. Iowa's offensive line cannot be called for more than three penalties. Iowa's specail teams cannot give up any momentum building plays. Iowa must start out strong- 110k wet drunk people turn either bitter or silent after about a 1/2 hour. Mistake free boring football can accomplish this. Iowa must score more points than Penn State.
Spud's Spin: Hawks 27 Lions 9 and we move up to 26 in the AP poll.
Iowa Vs. Arizona Review
Same format as usual. Would like to wish Arizona well. The more they win the better Iowa looks. I feel that was a very good team the Hawks beat. They have some questions at QB, and I am sure they could have used Gronkowski, but Iowa wasn't exactly the picture of health entering that game. Very impressed with the Wildcat's secondary and both TBs. Delashaun Dean looks like he could be a Sunday player. Both Interior D-lineman were fairly impressive also. Now onto last weeks Negatives, Positves, and Coaching observations.
Negatives
Iowa's first half passing game: It would be easy to put all of Iowa's issue's squarely on back of Ricky Stanzi but I am not sure that is the case. I think he has been inconsistent both mentally and physically, and he has made some decisions that would have cost against better teams. However he still flashes moments of brilliance. When he is getting his whole body into throws and his first option is open he is fantastic. Unfortunately he seemingly isn't reading the whole field. It seems like he is deciding where to throw the ball before he takes the snap. I could be wrong, but if I am not that is going to lead to DBs and LBs sitting on routes for specific formations all season. I also feel like KOK should get a little of the blame. I think the coaching staff is so worried about getting Ricky off to a hot start they are trying to get him nice easy safe passes on the edge and are afraid to attack the middle of the field early in the game. I also think the slot receiver is being ignored by both our offense and opposing defenses. If no one is within 5 yards of Chaney maybe we need an audible to just throw him the ball and let him work? Call me crazy but if we like his ability to retun punts we must like him in space and that is a lot of space to work with. We are getting plays late again. When that is coupled with a blitz and Stanzi has no time to look over a defense that is going to lead to sacks or turnovers. This needs to be corrected. You have 40 seconds to call a play and signal it in. Delay of game and time outs are not acceptable when you are in your 11th year on the job. The huddle should be broken and the team should be lined up with at least 12 seconds on the play clock. I would also like to give Arizona's secondary some credit for the first half perfomance Saturday. They were extremely aggressive and fast. They even defended double moves. Our receivers are also still relatively young, especially with Moeaki and DJK out. They might not always be in the right place making Stanzi look bad. I think Ferentz addressed that in his Tuesday Presser. There is certainly room for improvement but I don't think the passing game is broken by any means when you see the way Stanzi plays the 2nd half of games. I just would like to see that for four quarters.
Kickoff Coverage and Return Units: Although the Hawks have forced a couple of fumbles on the KO cover team they generally haven't looked very aggressive and nearly gave up a return for a TD in the Arizona game. I would prefer that Murray not make any more tackles this season. I feel Iowa really misses Jayme Murphy. They need someone to replace his passion on this unit and play with that kind of reckless abandon. Of course the flipside of that is career- ending injuries. The Kick Return Unit has also looked out of sorts. It doesn't seem to matter who we put back there. Chaney and Spievey haven't broken anything and haven't even looked like they have had a seam. The blocking needs to improve. This could really spark something special. Our success early this decade was often lead by the special teams.
Koeppel as the third TE in Goalline: This might seem really nitpicky. But I am going to expand this to nitpick some other things formationally. Iowa has some young TEs that need to gain some experience. One, J.D. Griggs, is roughly the same size as Koeppel. I feel like putting a lineman in there just sends the signal- here comes the run, no threat of P/A passing here. If they did run play-action and he dropped the pass I would go ballistic on KOK. I also hate it when the Hawks run an unbalanced formation (cover up one of the tight ends with a wide out) I have yet to a pass run out of this formation and it would be easy to get a penalty called if it were successful. I do like the "tight" ( receivers in tight, not split out wide like normal) formations but I thought they were overused and could be detrimental to the running game overall as Iowa doesn't generally attack the outside. I did like some of the route combinations out of these formations.
Postives
Ryan Donahue: I don't have BGHP's affinity for nicknames and I wish I could come up with one for him right now besides MVP. I probably haven't given him enough notice on this site but he is having an outstanding season. Punters don't usually leave early for the NFL but it might be time to get nervous. He is truly a weapon. Even when he gets a touchback his net is longer than most punters average.
The Defensive Line: Adrian Clayborn played an incredible game and rightly has gotten a lot of recognition this week but the whole unit well last week. Binns was a constant presence in Matt Scott's face, and both Ballard and Klug were shedding O-lineman like they were fat ladies with candy wrappers. They also played their lanes for the most part. The only time Grigsby got loose was on the 58 yard draw on 3rd and 6th where Clayborn took an outside path to the QB. I thought it was a nice playcall, nothing the d-line did wrong. Arizona got 85% of their rushing total on 3 plays. That is a dominant performance. That isn't even addressing the hurt and frustration they put on Matt Scott. Arizona's offensive line sure didn't enjoy the film review this week.
The Offensive Line: This unit is really starting to come together. The pass protection has really improved from the UNI game and they don't fall for the same blitz twice. They are doing a nice job in the run game and doing it most of the time against 8 or 9 man fronts. Again Riley Reiff should get special mention as he mane just his second start and basically shut out an All Pac Ten Player. Adam Gettis has also done a nice job stepping in for Vandervelde when he needs a blow.
Sash and Greenwood: These guys are playing so well that Norm is actually calling blitzes on first and second downs. The Vulture got another pick and was so pissed he dropped a second one I thought he was going to go fight the Arizona sideline. Both are solid to spectacular tacklers. They also don't miss assignments and are becoming more and more confident in their abilities.
Coaching: KOK has dialed up some pretty decent gameplans so far this season but he needs to improve his clock management. This isn't a new problem for him but so far it is really the only thing to complain about and that is a pretty good thing. Norm on the other hand has done everything right so far this season. He has been more aggresive with the players and really showing confidence in them by letting them blitz or spying with Angerer or Sash. He is showcasing Spievey by letting him blitz and press. They obviously have confidence in the younger players on the secondary as they are playing as much Nickel and Dime as I have ever seen. This may be the best defense that Norm has ever coached but it certainly is the most aggressively he has ever coached at Iowa.
Again I would like to complement Coach Ferentz. I think he could care less that Iowa isn't ranked. No one realizes that Moeaki, Bulaga, and DJK are hurt outside of the state of Iowa and The Hawks just continue to roll. His press conferences my be full of dry wit and no information but I read them anyway. I just like the way he conducts himself, even if I disagree with a gameday decision I am glad he is Iowa's coach.
Negatives
Iowa's first half passing game: It would be easy to put all of Iowa's issue's squarely on back of Ricky Stanzi but I am not sure that is the case. I think he has been inconsistent both mentally and physically, and he has made some decisions that would have cost against better teams. However he still flashes moments of brilliance. When he is getting his whole body into throws and his first option is open he is fantastic. Unfortunately he seemingly isn't reading the whole field. It seems like he is deciding where to throw the ball before he takes the snap. I could be wrong, but if I am not that is going to lead to DBs and LBs sitting on routes for specific formations all season. I also feel like KOK should get a little of the blame. I think the coaching staff is so worried about getting Ricky off to a hot start they are trying to get him nice easy safe passes on the edge and are afraid to attack the middle of the field early in the game. I also think the slot receiver is being ignored by both our offense and opposing defenses. If no one is within 5 yards of Chaney maybe we need an audible to just throw him the ball and let him work? Call me crazy but if we like his ability to retun punts we must like him in space and that is a lot of space to work with. We are getting plays late again. When that is coupled with a blitz and Stanzi has no time to look over a defense that is going to lead to sacks or turnovers. This needs to be corrected. You have 40 seconds to call a play and signal it in. Delay of game and time outs are not acceptable when you are in your 11th year on the job. The huddle should be broken and the team should be lined up with at least 12 seconds on the play clock. I would also like to give Arizona's secondary some credit for the first half perfomance Saturday. They were extremely aggressive and fast. They even defended double moves. Our receivers are also still relatively young, especially with Moeaki and DJK out. They might not always be in the right place making Stanzi look bad. I think Ferentz addressed that in his Tuesday Presser. There is certainly room for improvement but I don't think the passing game is broken by any means when you see the way Stanzi plays the 2nd half of games. I just would like to see that for four quarters.
Kickoff Coverage and Return Units: Although the Hawks have forced a couple of fumbles on the KO cover team they generally haven't looked very aggressive and nearly gave up a return for a TD in the Arizona game. I would prefer that Murray not make any more tackles this season. I feel Iowa really misses Jayme Murphy. They need someone to replace his passion on this unit and play with that kind of reckless abandon. Of course the flipside of that is career- ending injuries. The Kick Return Unit has also looked out of sorts. It doesn't seem to matter who we put back there. Chaney and Spievey haven't broken anything and haven't even looked like they have had a seam. The blocking needs to improve. This could really spark something special. Our success early this decade was often lead by the special teams.
Koeppel as the third TE in Goalline: This might seem really nitpicky. But I am going to expand this to nitpick some other things formationally. Iowa has some young TEs that need to gain some experience. One, J.D. Griggs, is roughly the same size as Koeppel. I feel like putting a lineman in there just sends the signal- here comes the run, no threat of P/A passing here. If they did run play-action and he dropped the pass I would go ballistic on KOK. I also hate it when the Hawks run an unbalanced formation (cover up one of the tight ends with a wide out) I have yet to a pass run out of this formation and it would be easy to get a penalty called if it were successful. I do like the "tight" ( receivers in tight, not split out wide like normal) formations but I thought they were overused and could be detrimental to the running game overall as Iowa doesn't generally attack the outside. I did like some of the route combinations out of these formations.
Postives
Ryan Donahue: I don't have BGHP's affinity for nicknames and I wish I could come up with one for him right now besides MVP. I probably haven't given him enough notice on this site but he is having an outstanding season. Punters don't usually leave early for the NFL but it might be time to get nervous. He is truly a weapon. Even when he gets a touchback his net is longer than most punters average.
The Defensive Line: Adrian Clayborn played an incredible game and rightly has gotten a lot of recognition this week but the whole unit well last week. Binns was a constant presence in Matt Scott's face, and both Ballard and Klug were shedding O-lineman like they were fat ladies with candy wrappers. They also played their lanes for the most part. The only time Grigsby got loose was on the 58 yard draw on 3rd and 6th where Clayborn took an outside path to the QB. I thought it was a nice playcall, nothing the d-line did wrong. Arizona got 85% of their rushing total on 3 plays. That is a dominant performance. That isn't even addressing the hurt and frustration they put on Matt Scott. Arizona's offensive line sure didn't enjoy the film review this week.
The Offensive Line: This unit is really starting to come together. The pass protection has really improved from the UNI game and they don't fall for the same blitz twice. They are doing a nice job in the run game and doing it most of the time against 8 or 9 man fronts. Again Riley Reiff should get special mention as he mane just his second start and basically shut out an All Pac Ten Player. Adam Gettis has also done a nice job stepping in for Vandervelde when he needs a blow.
Sash and Greenwood: These guys are playing so well that Norm is actually calling blitzes on first and second downs. The Vulture got another pick and was so pissed he dropped a second one I thought he was going to go fight the Arizona sideline. Both are solid to spectacular tacklers. They also don't miss assignments and are becoming more and more confident in their abilities.
Coaching: KOK has dialed up some pretty decent gameplans so far this season but he needs to improve his clock management. This isn't a new problem for him but so far it is really the only thing to complain about and that is a pretty good thing. Norm on the other hand has done everything right so far this season. He has been more aggresive with the players and really showing confidence in them by letting them blitz or spying with Angerer or Sash. He is showcasing Spievey by letting him blitz and press. They obviously have confidence in the younger players on the secondary as they are playing as much Nickel and Dime as I have ever seen. This may be the best defense that Norm has ever coached but it certainly is the most aggressively he has ever coached at Iowa.
Again I would like to complement Coach Ferentz. I think he could care less that Iowa isn't ranked. No one realizes that Moeaki, Bulaga, and DJK are hurt outside of the state of Iowa and The Hawks just continue to roll. His press conferences my be full of dry wit and no information but I read them anyway. I just like the way he conducts himself, even if I disagree with a gameday decision I am glad he is Iowa's coach.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Quick Thoughts
I haven't had time to review the film yet as I am way into my fantasy team and it was my sister's birthday. Tammy you are getting really old. Anyway moving on to football related matters I would again like to complement the Hawkeye Coaches on an outstanding gameplan. Big week ahead as we head into Happy Valley. College Gameday will be in town- don't get arrested or beat up Gabe.
Arizona's secondary was outstanding. I don't think we will see a faster or more aggressive set of corners or safeties the rest of the season. However they were sitting on a lot of our short routes and I think the middle of the field was exploitable all day. I will get to that in the later post. I think Wade, Nelson, and Golden all have futures on Sundays if they can avoid injuries.
Iowa's D-line is better than last seasons' unit. I love Mitch King and Matt Kroul ( in fact Kroul helped me get the ideas to launch this site) but Ballard moving inside and getting Binns on the field has made that unit as fast as any Dline Iowa has ever fielded. Plus we have depth and are actually using it. Clayborn could be the team MVP. We could return this entire unit next season. Arizona got all of their rushing yards on basically 3 plays. We dominated their line in both facets of the game.
Tyler Sash could be an All-American candidate if he didn't play for Iowa. This is a tough year when you have Taylor Mays at USC and Eric Berry at Tennesse already holding those spots. He isn't just "The Vulture" (thanks BHGP) but he is very physical and understands his role on the defense very well for a second year starter. He hasn't gone completely unnoticed see http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Scouts-notebook-defensive-review-5954.html
Iowa should be ranked.We are technically ranked 31 in the latest AP poll. I really shouldn't care but I do. Houston, Nebraska (the n is for nowledge), Washington, Missouri, and Gene Chizik's Auburn squad's are more highly regarded than Iowa's. Seriously I said Washington and Gene Chizik. Beating this year's USC will come to mean less than usual as I suspect even they can't reload that well. But Washington beat them because they stole half of their coaching staff and USC played a first time starting qb who was tutored by UW's head coach. Seriously this poll is done by sportswriters. Did they understand that we beat UNI? I understand we should have won that game more handily but they are the people who put a team in the top 20 based off of one game who will finish with a less than .500 record, and lose several games by two to three TDs. Houston beat everybody's pre-season darlings Okie State (their men- T. Boone Pickens' paid for 'em) but I wouldn't be suprised to see them finish 4-4 in the Big 12. And Auburn. The same people that killed Auburn for the hire now have that team ranked on the cusp of the top 25. You suck at your jobs. You are making the Coaches poll credible and that is seriously stupid. I think if I asked Ferentz he might let me fill it out. All right, that is out of my system, if we TCB in Happy Valley they can't keep us out. WE ARE COMINGGGG TO PENN STATE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I wonder who had the job of changing JoPa's diaper after my favorite commercial of all time.
Arizona's secondary was outstanding. I don't think we will see a faster or more aggressive set of corners or safeties the rest of the season. However they were sitting on a lot of our short routes and I think the middle of the field was exploitable all day. I will get to that in the later post. I think Wade, Nelson, and Golden all have futures on Sundays if they can avoid injuries.
Iowa's D-line is better than last seasons' unit. I love Mitch King and Matt Kroul ( in fact Kroul helped me get the ideas to launch this site) but Ballard moving inside and getting Binns on the field has made that unit as fast as any Dline Iowa has ever fielded. Plus we have depth and are actually using it. Clayborn could be the team MVP. We could return this entire unit next season. Arizona got all of their rushing yards on basically 3 plays. We dominated their line in both facets of the game.
Tyler Sash could be an All-American candidate if he didn't play for Iowa. This is a tough year when you have Taylor Mays at USC and Eric Berry at Tennesse already holding those spots. He isn't just "The Vulture" (thanks BHGP) but he is very physical and understands his role on the defense very well for a second year starter. He hasn't gone completely unnoticed see http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Scouts-notebook-defensive-review-5954.html
Iowa should be ranked.We are technically ranked 31 in the latest AP poll. I really shouldn't care but I do. Houston, Nebraska (the n is for nowledge), Washington, Missouri, and Gene Chizik's Auburn squad's are more highly regarded than Iowa's. Seriously I said Washington and Gene Chizik. Beating this year's USC will come to mean less than usual as I suspect even they can't reload that well. But Washington beat them because they stole half of their coaching staff and USC played a first time starting qb who was tutored by UW's head coach. Seriously this poll is done by sportswriters. Did they understand that we beat UNI? I understand we should have won that game more handily but they are the people who put a team in the top 20 based off of one game who will finish with a less than .500 record, and lose several games by two to three TDs. Houston beat everybody's pre-season darlings Okie State (their men- T. Boone Pickens' paid for 'em) but I wouldn't be suprised to see them finish 4-4 in the Big 12. And Auburn. The same people that killed Auburn for the hire now have that team ranked on the cusp of the top 25. You suck at your jobs. You are making the Coaches poll credible and that is seriously stupid. I think if I asked Ferentz he might let me fill it out. All right, that is out of my system, if we TCB in Happy Valley they can't keep us out. WE ARE COMINGGGG TO PENN STATE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I wonder who had the job of changing JoPa's diaper after my favorite commercial of all time.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
ISU Wrap Up
Going to go with pretty much the same format every week for these unless something drastic happens in one of these games. Would like to come out right away and complement KOK for a very well thought out gameplan on offense and also kudos to Norm. I am tired of hearing how Arnaud handed us the game. Sash and Greenwood made plays off of his terrible decisions, and Iowa took advantage offensively of the turnovers. Good teams take advantage of the other teams mistakes. What was Iowa supposed to give ISU the ball back because they are more talented? Get over it Clone fans and commentators. Iowa didn't play that well and could have put a Fry era whipping on them. On to the Negatives, Positives and coaching comments. Really nitpicking this week.
Negatives
Stanzi's Acurracy: I don't know if this comes out to nerves or a phantom clock in his head after the first interception but Stanzi really had a first half to forget. He completed 12 of 24 passes; of the incompletions- two of those were dropped (one each by Stross and McNutt and they were decent not perfect throws), three more were just physical mistakes ( I mean good reads, bad throws- I can live with that, they were difficult throws) two were interceptions one due to being hit, one was an overthrow, and I would estimate five were due to throwing into coverage. I will give him one thing he can squeeze the ball into tight spots. Even some of his completions were lasers that he probably shouldn't have thrown. He is a little of guilty of locking onto his first read but most of the time his first read this season has been open. That is going to change as the season progresses. I have a lot of confidence in him to turn this around. Arizona will be a tough test and a good measuring stick to see if he has made any progress.
Tackling: Really nitpicking here, as I don't have a lot of negatives to fill the space this week. I thought the angles of Edds and Angerer really improved and the whole teams' physicality really stepped up a notch. This needs to progress week to week. Big complents to Brett Greenwood who I thought played his most physical game as a Hawk. He is exempt from this Negative this week.
Positives:
The Running Backs: Brandon Wegher broke the century mark and saw action on the third series of the game. I thought he showed unreal athleticism (the one-handed catch anyone?), patience, and an incredible burst when the hole opened. If the line solidifies (from what I understand Bulaga is no sure thing this week) he could soon be the #1 option. I also thought that Adam Robinson took another step forward. I felt he too was more patient in letting the line push and reading the holes. He is very physical for his size and really finishes his runs well. Brett Morse is a revelation. I knew he could block but he has obviously been underutilized in the passing game. If Moeaki is out I could see him playing Reisner's role as the H in two tight end sets. He is very athletic for his size. I would like to see more out of Jeff Brinson but I am sure he will get his chance.
The Safties: Sash and Greenwood combined for 5 picks and laid some lumber. They played games with Arnauds head by constantly shifting their positioning on the field. Both are fearless in run support but are beginning to trust their speed, Greenwood especially seems faster, this season. If they are willing to trust that then they can play pass first and run second and get burned less on play-action their only weakness so far this season.
Riley Reiff: Filling the giant shoes of Bulaga had to be tough especially in a highly charged rivalry game but Reiff did a very good job. He was called for two penalties but neither really impacted the game significantly. He also showed very well in the run game for a guy Ferentz called "lean at 280 or 285" on the radio pre-game show. I thought it was smart to keep Moeaki in to block early in the game to help him gain confidence on third downs. Late in the first half they quit giving him help and he handled himself very well in the passing game as well.
Willie Lowe: Lowe played outstanding. He was even allowed to press a little in the second half. In fact the whole secondary was great but I thought Lowe deserved special mention for making his first start against a spread team on the road. ISU didn't really test him often but he blanketed Hamilton or Douglas on a go route early in the game. Otherwise I don't really find him in my game notes which is outstanding for a first time starter. He is listed again as the starter this week as long as he holds off Prater this week in practice. It will be nice to have 3 solid corners now in Nickel as Hyde got burned pretty badly once by Hamilton.
Julian Vandervelde: For a guy whom Ferentz said was "fat and out of shape" I thought Vandervelde dominated. He really improved the co-hesion of the line plus I love hearing him talk after the games. Glad to have him back. Richardson also played well at left guard. It looks liek Koeppel may get more time at center as Eubanks didn't completely win his battle with air in my opinion.
Coaching: The sexy thing to be doing right now in the Hawkeye blogoshere is to be kissing KOK's ass. I am not going to do that. I will complement him on a very good gameplan and no clock penalties yet. I also don't think we have burned any Time-outs either, which would be great to have in our pocket in tight games. I do like the multiple looks we have shown so far and hope we continue to show those looks on offense. I also love the idea of throwing the ball to both Robinson and especially Wegher. I would like to see Stanzi try to read the whole field instead of just one side and I think that people forget KOK is our QB coach, also.
Norm executed a great gameplan as well. I thought that Iowa was willing to show multiple fronts on D and concede the run which probably goes against every bone in Norm's body. I am not a fan of the 3-4 but Tarpinian is too talented to keep off of the field, I would just like to see Iowa do something besides play Cover 2 or Quarters with that. Edds and Hunter off the edge would be so shocking the qb might sack himself. Iowa also played a mix of young d-lineman and I loved the zone blitzing. I am looking forward to the matchup of Norm v. Sonny Dykes
Lastly my complements to the Captain. I think so far he has handled the adversity of the UNI game well and the loss of Bulaga great. I don't think Stoops holds a candle to Coach Ferentz, but that is why they play the games.
Negatives
Stanzi's Acurracy: I don't know if this comes out to nerves or a phantom clock in his head after the first interception but Stanzi really had a first half to forget. He completed 12 of 24 passes; of the incompletions- two of those were dropped (one each by Stross and McNutt and they were decent not perfect throws), three more were just physical mistakes ( I mean good reads, bad throws- I can live with that, they were difficult throws) two were interceptions one due to being hit, one was an overthrow, and I would estimate five were due to throwing into coverage. I will give him one thing he can squeeze the ball into tight spots. Even some of his completions were lasers that he probably shouldn't have thrown. He is a little of guilty of locking onto his first read but most of the time his first read this season has been open. That is going to change as the season progresses. I have a lot of confidence in him to turn this around. Arizona will be a tough test and a good measuring stick to see if he has made any progress.
Tackling: Really nitpicking here, as I don't have a lot of negatives to fill the space this week. I thought the angles of Edds and Angerer really improved and the whole teams' physicality really stepped up a notch. This needs to progress week to week. Big complents to Brett Greenwood who I thought played his most physical game as a Hawk. He is exempt from this Negative this week.
Positives:
The Running Backs: Brandon Wegher broke the century mark and saw action on the third series of the game. I thought he showed unreal athleticism (the one-handed catch anyone?), patience, and an incredible burst when the hole opened. If the line solidifies (from what I understand Bulaga is no sure thing this week) he could soon be the #1 option. I also thought that Adam Robinson took another step forward. I felt he too was more patient in letting the line push and reading the holes. He is very physical for his size and really finishes his runs well. Brett Morse is a revelation. I knew he could block but he has obviously been underutilized in the passing game. If Moeaki is out I could see him playing Reisner's role as the H in two tight end sets. He is very athletic for his size. I would like to see more out of Jeff Brinson but I am sure he will get his chance.
The Safties: Sash and Greenwood combined for 5 picks and laid some lumber. They played games with Arnauds head by constantly shifting their positioning on the field. Both are fearless in run support but are beginning to trust their speed, Greenwood especially seems faster, this season. If they are willing to trust that then they can play pass first and run second and get burned less on play-action their only weakness so far this season.
Riley Reiff: Filling the giant shoes of Bulaga had to be tough especially in a highly charged rivalry game but Reiff did a very good job. He was called for two penalties but neither really impacted the game significantly. He also showed very well in the run game for a guy Ferentz called "lean at 280 or 285" on the radio pre-game show. I thought it was smart to keep Moeaki in to block early in the game to help him gain confidence on third downs. Late in the first half they quit giving him help and he handled himself very well in the passing game as well.
Willie Lowe: Lowe played outstanding. He was even allowed to press a little in the second half. In fact the whole secondary was great but I thought Lowe deserved special mention for making his first start against a spread team on the road. ISU didn't really test him often but he blanketed Hamilton or Douglas on a go route early in the game. Otherwise I don't really find him in my game notes which is outstanding for a first time starter. He is listed again as the starter this week as long as he holds off Prater this week in practice. It will be nice to have 3 solid corners now in Nickel as Hyde got burned pretty badly once by Hamilton.
Julian Vandervelde: For a guy whom Ferentz said was "fat and out of shape" I thought Vandervelde dominated. He really improved the co-hesion of the line plus I love hearing him talk after the games. Glad to have him back. Richardson also played well at left guard. It looks liek Koeppel may get more time at center as Eubanks didn't completely win his battle with air in my opinion.
Coaching: The sexy thing to be doing right now in the Hawkeye blogoshere is to be kissing KOK's ass. I am not going to do that. I will complement him on a very good gameplan and no clock penalties yet. I also don't think we have burned any Time-outs either, which would be great to have in our pocket in tight games. I do like the multiple looks we have shown so far and hope we continue to show those looks on offense. I also love the idea of throwing the ball to both Robinson and especially Wegher. I would like to see Stanzi try to read the whole field instead of just one side and I think that people forget KOK is our QB coach, also.
Norm executed a great gameplan as well. I thought that Iowa was willing to show multiple fronts on D and concede the run which probably goes against every bone in Norm's body. I am not a fan of the 3-4 but Tarpinian is too talented to keep off of the field, I would just like to see Iowa do something besides play Cover 2 or Quarters with that. Edds and Hunter off the edge would be so shocking the qb might sack himself. Iowa also played a mix of young d-lineman and I loved the zone blitzing. I am looking forward to the matchup of Norm v. Sonny Dykes
Lastly my complements to the Captain. I think so far he has handled the adversity of the UNI game well and the loss of Bulaga great. I don't think Stoops holds a candle to Coach Ferentz, but that is why they play the games.
Friday, September 11, 2009
The Match Ups
All right I know it is a little late, but better late than never. Here is my take on the match up for tomorrow's game. These are strictly opinions and most of them are based on one game's worth of watching ISU and some research of ISU's current coaching staff.
Tom Herman (ISU OC) V. Norm Parker (IOWA DC) Although some would paint this as a chess master vs. a checkers player I have come around to Norm's way of thinking. You certainly can't argue with the results. Herman has run some pretty high flying offenses and put up very guady #s at his last stop for the Rice Owls. ISU played things pretty close to the vest v. NDSU showing very little formationally and running only one trick play. Norm tends to run pretty basic defenses whether its Cover 2 or Cover 3, the only thing that tends to vary is if he stunts with the defensive line. The key to this match up in my opinion is for Iowa to be able to stop the run early without bringing a safety into the box. They must tackle extremely well and play fundamental and intelligent assignment based with the front seven and Greenwood and Sash cannot get sucked in on play- action early. I expect ISU to test Castillo the RCB early and often and the spread is designed to nullify the advantage Iowa's Dline would seem to possess over ISU's Oline. Norm has also been more flexible with his schemes the last two seasons playing more nickel and dime and this would be a good week to break that out. There is no rule that you can't use an extra defensive back on the first two downs.
Spud's Spin I am going to give the edge to Norm here. Iowa has been fairly succesful against spread team's recently. As long as the offense doesn't put the D in terrible spots I think the Td streak extends at least until the second half.
Wally Burnham (ISU DC) Vs. KOK (there should be no O in it) You know who KOK is. My all time favorite coach. The most prepared, best clock manager, time out conserver, game planner, and all around user of talent to ever grace the sidelines (and not the coaching box like a good O- coodinator). This probably isn't even close. Burnham helped former Hawk Jim Leavitt turn the University of South Florida from a Division IAA school into a power in the Big Least. He wants to run an attacking style 4-3 style of defense but I am not sure he has the horses yet. However I am pretty sure he will have a pretty good gameplan in place for Iowa. Chizik and company outcoached 'Keefe in 2007 the last time we visited Ames and McCarney had left them very little talent to work with.
Spud's Spin Uh Burnham you think?
Tony Moeaki Vs. ISU's LBs, Safeties, and Iowa's training staff. ISU has no shot at stopping Moeaki in the passing game. They can't cover him man to man and it is tough to keep track of a tight end in zone coverage. He is probably bigger and stronger than both of ISU D-ends also so he could be a huge factor in the running game if we attack the edges like I expect us too. However Iowa's training staff owns Moeaki with victories over him every season except his true freshman season.
Spud's Spin After Iowa lost Bulaga earlier this week this is one player they absolutely cannot afford to lose. If the training staff wins so does ISU.
A.J. Edds and Jeremiha Hunter Vs. ISU's Slot receivers Edd's and Hunter are going to see a lot of 5 wide on Saturday. They need to try to get their hands on them and disrupt their routes to throw off the timing and give the D-line a chance to pressure Arnaud. They also need to tackle everything in front of them. No missed tackles.
Spud's Spin This is a no win situation for Hunter. Edds is used to doing this and is athletic enough to cover many wide outs. Hunter isn't as good in space and could be exposed.
Rafael Eubanks Vs. Air. I would like to see Eubanks make contact with somebody at least 70% of the time this week. I don't know the exact percentage of times Eubanks didn't touch anyone against UNI but it was close to 40% lets aim for a 10% increase in productivity this week against an inferior defense.
Spud's Spin I know I am being hard on Eubanks but I think he has a ton of potential. I would love to see him live up to it. Hit somebody.
Jeff Brinson and Brandon Wegher Vs. Lester Erb. Apparently Erb isn't a good coach or these guys are really dumb. But it is kind of funny how our reciever play has drastically improved since we moved Erb to running backs coach. Start giving the most talented guys a chance. If they don't see the field you'll never know. Experience is always the best teacher. If you can't teach them how to block in KOK's offense you are in the wrong level of coaching.
Spud's Spin I am hoping that Saturday is the debut of Brinson whom Ferentz has repeatedly raved about. Robinson can't do it all by himself. The line wasn't as bad as I thought it was initially the backs needed to make a guy miss or show better vision. They left a lot of yards out there especially in the first half.
Iowa Vs. ISU I see this game going one of two ways. It could be a punt fest as both offenses struggle to establish a rhythm. It will then be decided by the team that is more composed and executes its gameplan better and avoids the big mistake. Unfortunately for Iowa that is not them on the road. In that scenario I would pick ISU with a score of 17- 13. But that isn't how I see things happening.
Spud's spin The team that scores the first touchdown is going to win this game. ISU hasn't scored a touchdown against Iowa for 10 quarters. I think that streak will extend for four more. I see Iowa's run game getting on track even with the loss of Bulaga. If Iowa was ever going to come into Ames pissed off and ready to play now would be the time. Spread Offenses don't scare me like they used to. There is no Regis Benn or James Hardy on ISU's roster, no Tyrell Sutton in ISU's backfield and as much respect as I have for Rhoad's it is his second game as head coach. He will make some mistakes. Ferentz and company will take advantage of them. I think Iowa will show a lot of 3 receiver formation tomorrow and run out of it negating some of ISU's pressure game. Iowa executed a very nice 3 step drop passing game early and late against UNI, and I think we will see a lot of that tomorrow also. Final score Iowa 31 ISU 9. I know I am a homer. EAT IT CLONES
Tom Herman (ISU OC) V. Norm Parker (IOWA DC) Although some would paint this as a chess master vs. a checkers player I have come around to Norm's way of thinking. You certainly can't argue with the results. Herman has run some pretty high flying offenses and put up very guady #s at his last stop for the Rice Owls. ISU played things pretty close to the vest v. NDSU showing very little formationally and running only one trick play. Norm tends to run pretty basic defenses whether its Cover 2 or Cover 3, the only thing that tends to vary is if he stunts with the defensive line. The key to this match up in my opinion is for Iowa to be able to stop the run early without bringing a safety into the box. They must tackle extremely well and play fundamental and intelligent assignment based with the front seven and Greenwood and Sash cannot get sucked in on play- action early. I expect ISU to test Castillo the RCB early and often and the spread is designed to nullify the advantage Iowa's Dline would seem to possess over ISU's Oline. Norm has also been more flexible with his schemes the last two seasons playing more nickel and dime and this would be a good week to break that out. There is no rule that you can't use an extra defensive back on the first two downs.
Spud's Spin I am going to give the edge to Norm here. Iowa has been fairly succesful against spread team's recently. As long as the offense doesn't put the D in terrible spots I think the Td streak extends at least until the second half.
Wally Burnham (ISU DC) Vs. KOK (there should be no O in it) You know who KOK is. My all time favorite coach. The most prepared, best clock manager, time out conserver, game planner, and all around user of talent to ever grace the sidelines (and not the coaching box like a good O- coodinator). This probably isn't even close. Burnham helped former Hawk Jim Leavitt turn the University of South Florida from a Division IAA school into a power in the Big Least. He wants to run an attacking style 4-3 style of defense but I am not sure he has the horses yet. However I am pretty sure he will have a pretty good gameplan in place for Iowa. Chizik and company outcoached 'Keefe in 2007 the last time we visited Ames and McCarney had left them very little talent to work with.
Spud's Spin Uh Burnham you think?
Tony Moeaki Vs. ISU's LBs, Safeties, and Iowa's training staff. ISU has no shot at stopping Moeaki in the passing game. They can't cover him man to man and it is tough to keep track of a tight end in zone coverage. He is probably bigger and stronger than both of ISU D-ends also so he could be a huge factor in the running game if we attack the edges like I expect us too. However Iowa's training staff owns Moeaki with victories over him every season except his true freshman season.
Spud's Spin After Iowa lost Bulaga earlier this week this is one player they absolutely cannot afford to lose. If the training staff wins so does ISU.
A.J. Edds and Jeremiha Hunter Vs. ISU's Slot receivers Edd's and Hunter are going to see a lot of 5 wide on Saturday. They need to try to get their hands on them and disrupt their routes to throw off the timing and give the D-line a chance to pressure Arnaud. They also need to tackle everything in front of them. No missed tackles.
Spud's Spin This is a no win situation for Hunter. Edds is used to doing this and is athletic enough to cover many wide outs. Hunter isn't as good in space and could be exposed.
Rafael Eubanks Vs. Air. I would like to see Eubanks make contact with somebody at least 70% of the time this week. I don't know the exact percentage of times Eubanks didn't touch anyone against UNI but it was close to 40% lets aim for a 10% increase in productivity this week against an inferior defense.
Spud's Spin I know I am being hard on Eubanks but I think he has a ton of potential. I would love to see him live up to it. Hit somebody.
Jeff Brinson and Brandon Wegher Vs. Lester Erb. Apparently Erb isn't a good coach or these guys are really dumb. But it is kind of funny how our reciever play has drastically improved since we moved Erb to running backs coach. Start giving the most talented guys a chance. If they don't see the field you'll never know. Experience is always the best teacher. If you can't teach them how to block in KOK's offense you are in the wrong level of coaching.
Spud's Spin I am hoping that Saturday is the debut of Brinson whom Ferentz has repeatedly raved about. Robinson can't do it all by himself. The line wasn't as bad as I thought it was initially the backs needed to make a guy miss or show better vision. They left a lot of yards out there especially in the first half.
Iowa Vs. ISU I see this game going one of two ways. It could be a punt fest as both offenses struggle to establish a rhythm. It will then be decided by the team that is more composed and executes its gameplan better and avoids the big mistake. Unfortunately for Iowa that is not them on the road. In that scenario I would pick ISU with a score of 17- 13. But that isn't how I see things happening.
Spud's spin The team that scores the first touchdown is going to win this game. ISU hasn't scored a touchdown against Iowa for 10 quarters. I think that streak will extend for four more. I see Iowa's run game getting on track even with the loss of Bulaga. If Iowa was ever going to come into Ames pissed off and ready to play now would be the time. Spread Offenses don't scare me like they used to. There is no Regis Benn or James Hardy on ISU's roster, no Tyrell Sutton in ISU's backfield and as much respect as I have for Rhoad's it is his second game as head coach. He will make some mistakes. Ferentz and company will take advantage of them. I think Iowa will show a lot of 3 receiver formation tomorrow and run out of it negating some of ISU's pressure game. Iowa executed a very nice 3 step drop passing game early and late against UNI, and I think we will see a lot of that tomorrow also. Final score Iowa 31 ISU 9. I know I am a homer. EAT IT CLONES
Thursday, September 10, 2009
UNI Wrap Up
Okay following film review of the UNI game some of my initial impressions have been softened. Unfortunately some of them have been reinforced. That was a sloppy game from an Iowa perspective and certainly not the way the Hawks wanted to open the season. Some things I am certain of are that Mark Farley and his staff did a great job of preparing their team and UNI is better than many FBS schools. UNI may be a more physical team than our opponent this weak. And Pat Grace is a hell of a football player. We couldn't have played a better opponent to prepare for this weeks game. However, Iowa did not play a very good football game. That is unfortunately the truth. I want to break down the game into three phases Positives, Negatives and Coaching. First we will look at the Negatives.
Negatives
Interior Offensive Line: Rafael Eubanks, Adam Gettis and Dan Doering, to a lesser degree, did not have an outstanding performances in the opener. The run game didn't get off the ground and all of the sacks in the first half came up the middle. Gettis was also the lineman responsible for the holding penalty that nullified Paul Chaney's long td pass. This looked like more than lack of communication as several times all three players were physically dominated. I would guess that Doering is the only one of the three that has a chance to start all of the games and even that is tenuous at best. Fortunately Vandervelde and Calloway return this week allowing Richardson to get into the mix as he also looked like a potential weakness on the edge. The two deeps listed Richardson as a starter at one of the guard spots depending on how much Vandervelde can go so Doering may have already lost his job.
Iowa's Scheme: Normally I would be blasting KOK for playcalling and for lack of creativity. However what I mean by this is that Iowa's injuries and struggles above will dictate what they can do with their scheme. I think to successfully run the ball Iowa is going to have to have FB Brett Morse in the game. I didn't see him miss a single block or read in the run game and he also had a nice catch in the flat early in the game. He may have to line up as the third down back to pick up blitzes as he seems to be the most sure fire blocking back in Iowa's fold. I have a lot of respect for both Paul Rhodes and Wally Burnham and I am pretty sure they will be able to make adjustments to Iowa formationally.
Tackling: I understand that this was the first game but I thought that all of Iowa's back 7 were sloppy tackling and took poor angles to the ball, especially in the first half. Pat Angerer and A.J. Edds both missed key tackles on the long td drive that gave UNI momentum and chewed clock. The only player who consistently tackled well was Amari Speivey. This must be cleaned up. ISU will complete short passes they cannot break tackles for YAC.
Castillo: I know it was his first game going against a relatively experienced recieving unit and a well- oiled offense but again visions of Adam Shada keep appearing in my head. Too much cushion and very little physicality. He needs to step it up against receivers who will be bigger and faster than him this week and don't think the first 3 or 4 passes won't be coming his way.
The Business Like Approach: I am tired of hearing about how Iowa doesn't get too high or too low. Football is an emotional game. We need a little Matt Roth or Drew Tate fire in somebody on this team. I want to somebody pissed off when things aren't going well. The only time Ferentz gets pissed is at refs. Chew on some players when they aren't executing. Seniors get in somebodies face on the sidelines. Jaw with the opponent. The leadership question is still very much unanswered on this team and the coaches obviously leave the emotion up to the players. Someone needs to step up and lead.
Positives
Receiving Corps: This looks to be the deepest receiving corps of the Ferentz era. McNutt seems to be real as does Chaney. Trey Stross isn't listed on the medical report yet. DJK is supposed to be hurt but made a huge statement on the field and a stupid one off of it. Keenan Davis saw limited action and flashes huge potential. Colin Sandeman is still highly regarded by the coaching staff. That doesn't even include the tight ends. Moeaki looked like the player that killed Syracuse all by himself and Reisner quietly had a nice game blocking very well.
Moeaki: I know I already mentioned him but he deserves more mention. Moeaki's only mistake was trying to hurdle a guy early in the game. He blocked very well, ran very good routes and is obviously Stanzi's security blanket. At least twice it looked like he wasn't even running a route and floated out to catch a pass from a scrambling Stanzi. That would look great all season if he can stay healthy.
Stanzi: I understand that many Hawkeye fans weren't impressed with Stanzi but I was. I feel he has progressed greatly from last season to this season although I still think he has a long way to go. He seems much more confident in his reads, and much more accurate. He is still very streaky but when he is on he can really fit the ball into tight spots. He throws the long ball very, very well. The first sack and fumble I do put on him. He had time to make two reads and then he needed to go down hopefully he will learn from that mistake. His pocket presence is much improved from last season in my opinion.
The D-line: The move of Christian Ballard to DT seems to be a very smart move in my opinion. I thought that Iowa had to play less games in order to pressure Grace, I just think he is a good and fairly mobile qb. Klug played well but I think that Daniels should rotate in more to keep Ballard and Klug fresh. Clayborn and Binns looked very good to me and Hundertmark looked very natural at LDE. I think that UNI has a very good O-line and that Iowa did a very nice job of shutting down the run after the first two series of the game with out doing anything out of character.
Amari Speivey: I knew he was good, but I didn't realize how physical he was. I don't think he missed a tackle. I don't know why teams throw at him but I hope they continue to do so. I also think he looked outstanding in the return game. Drink plenty of water this week.
Coaching
I think that Iowa got outcoached in this game plain and simple. But they should have. Iowa needed to use this game as a tune up and Ferentz and company shouldn't have had to give a Knute Rockne type speech to get his players motivated to take care of business against UNI. When it comes to the execution vs. scheme camp you can put me solidly in the scheme camp but talent wins 90% of the time anyway so I think alot of the time that debate is a waste of time. I think that it is a coaches job to get his players in postion prepare and win games. I don't think that Ferentz and company necessarily failed to do that this week. Obviously they won the game. What I would like to see is Iowa be a little more flexible with its roster. Play less experienced, more talented players i.e. no more Paki O'Meara carrying the ball, please. I think that Paki is a great kid, wonderful Hawkeye just not a great running back. I understand the concept of no practice- no play but I also like watching winning football and relaxing in the fourth quarter of games we should be dominating. Iowa is so conservative Steve King turned an endorsement from their coaching staff. I guess what I am trying to say is open up the playbook defensively and play your most talented players offensively, please.
Negatives
Interior Offensive Line: Rafael Eubanks, Adam Gettis and Dan Doering, to a lesser degree, did not have an outstanding performances in the opener. The run game didn't get off the ground and all of the sacks in the first half came up the middle. Gettis was also the lineman responsible for the holding penalty that nullified Paul Chaney's long td pass. This looked like more than lack of communication as several times all three players were physically dominated. I would guess that Doering is the only one of the three that has a chance to start all of the games and even that is tenuous at best. Fortunately Vandervelde and Calloway return this week allowing Richardson to get into the mix as he also looked like a potential weakness on the edge. The two deeps listed Richardson as a starter at one of the guard spots depending on how much Vandervelde can go so Doering may have already lost his job.
Iowa's Scheme: Normally I would be blasting KOK for playcalling and for lack of creativity. However what I mean by this is that Iowa's injuries and struggles above will dictate what they can do with their scheme. I think to successfully run the ball Iowa is going to have to have FB Brett Morse in the game. I didn't see him miss a single block or read in the run game and he also had a nice catch in the flat early in the game. He may have to line up as the third down back to pick up blitzes as he seems to be the most sure fire blocking back in Iowa's fold. I have a lot of respect for both Paul Rhodes and Wally Burnham and I am pretty sure they will be able to make adjustments to Iowa formationally.
Tackling: I understand that this was the first game but I thought that all of Iowa's back 7 were sloppy tackling and took poor angles to the ball, especially in the first half. Pat Angerer and A.J. Edds both missed key tackles on the long td drive that gave UNI momentum and chewed clock. The only player who consistently tackled well was Amari Speivey. This must be cleaned up. ISU will complete short passes they cannot break tackles for YAC.
Castillo: I know it was his first game going against a relatively experienced recieving unit and a well- oiled offense but again visions of Adam Shada keep appearing in my head. Too much cushion and very little physicality. He needs to step it up against receivers who will be bigger and faster than him this week and don't think the first 3 or 4 passes won't be coming his way.
The Business Like Approach: I am tired of hearing about how Iowa doesn't get too high or too low. Football is an emotional game. We need a little Matt Roth or Drew Tate fire in somebody on this team. I want to somebody pissed off when things aren't going well. The only time Ferentz gets pissed is at refs. Chew on some players when they aren't executing. Seniors get in somebodies face on the sidelines. Jaw with the opponent. The leadership question is still very much unanswered on this team and the coaches obviously leave the emotion up to the players. Someone needs to step up and lead.
Positives
Receiving Corps: This looks to be the deepest receiving corps of the Ferentz era. McNutt seems to be real as does Chaney. Trey Stross isn't listed on the medical report yet. DJK is supposed to be hurt but made a huge statement on the field and a stupid one off of it. Keenan Davis saw limited action and flashes huge potential. Colin Sandeman is still highly regarded by the coaching staff. That doesn't even include the tight ends. Moeaki looked like the player that killed Syracuse all by himself and Reisner quietly had a nice game blocking very well.
Moeaki: I know I already mentioned him but he deserves more mention. Moeaki's only mistake was trying to hurdle a guy early in the game. He blocked very well, ran very good routes and is obviously Stanzi's security blanket. At least twice it looked like he wasn't even running a route and floated out to catch a pass from a scrambling Stanzi. That would look great all season if he can stay healthy.
Stanzi: I understand that many Hawkeye fans weren't impressed with Stanzi but I was. I feel he has progressed greatly from last season to this season although I still think he has a long way to go. He seems much more confident in his reads, and much more accurate. He is still very streaky but when he is on he can really fit the ball into tight spots. He throws the long ball very, very well. The first sack and fumble I do put on him. He had time to make two reads and then he needed to go down hopefully he will learn from that mistake. His pocket presence is much improved from last season in my opinion.
The D-line: The move of Christian Ballard to DT seems to be a very smart move in my opinion. I thought that Iowa had to play less games in order to pressure Grace, I just think he is a good and fairly mobile qb. Klug played well but I think that Daniels should rotate in more to keep Ballard and Klug fresh. Clayborn and Binns looked very good to me and Hundertmark looked very natural at LDE. I think that UNI has a very good O-line and that Iowa did a very nice job of shutting down the run after the first two series of the game with out doing anything out of character.
Amari Speivey: I knew he was good, but I didn't realize how physical he was. I don't think he missed a tackle. I don't know why teams throw at him but I hope they continue to do so. I also think he looked outstanding in the return game. Drink plenty of water this week.
Coaching
I think that Iowa got outcoached in this game plain and simple. But they should have. Iowa needed to use this game as a tune up and Ferentz and company shouldn't have had to give a Knute Rockne type speech to get his players motivated to take care of business against UNI. When it comes to the execution vs. scheme camp you can put me solidly in the scheme camp but talent wins 90% of the time anyway so I think alot of the time that debate is a waste of time. I think that it is a coaches job to get his players in postion prepare and win games. I don't think that Ferentz and company necessarily failed to do that this week. Obviously they won the game. What I would like to see is Iowa be a little more flexible with its roster. Play less experienced, more talented players i.e. no more Paki O'Meara carrying the ball, please. I think that Paki is a great kid, wonderful Hawkeye just not a great running back. I understand the concept of no practice- no play but I also like watching winning football and relaxing in the fourth quarter of games we should be dominating. Iowa is so conservative Steve King turned an endorsement from their coaching staff. I guess what I am trying to say is open up the playbook defensively and play your most talented players offensively, please.
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