2009 Iowa Hawkeyes Game Preview
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Preface
As we look forward to this Saturday's battle for the Rose Bowl bid, it's important to note that this will be the final home game for many Buckeyes who have played their hearts out on that field.
We've all seen their efforts over the past 4 years, and here are some of the accomplishments of the football team since 2006:
A 41-8 record (.837), with 3 games remaining; the most wins by a tOSU senior class is 43, set in 1995-98, 2002-05, and 2005-08.
Being placed #1 in the BCS for 12 straight ranking periods, breaking USC's record of 9
Being ranked #1 in the AP poll for 15 weeks in 2006 (tOSU's longest streak), and being #1 a total of 20 weeks
Being the first football team to ever play in three AP #1 vs. AP #2 games in a season (2006)
Winning the most anticipated game in the history of the 'Shoe, 42-39 in The Game in 2006
Setting the Big Ten record for consecutive conference wins: 20
Tying the Big Ten record for consecutive regular season wins: 28
Taking the all-time lead for most AP poll appearances earlier this year (see below in this section)
Taking the all-time lead in winning percentage for Big Ten Conference games (passed TSUN in The Game, 2008)
The 2009 seniors:
Andre Amos (Middletown, Ohio)
Jake Ballard (Springboro, Ohio)
Kurt Coleman (Dayton, Ohio)
Jim Cordle (Lancaster, Ohio)
Todd Denlinger (Troy, Ohio)
Joe Gantz (Wooster, Ohio)
Tom Ingham (Centerville, Ohio)
Andrew Moses (Dublin, Ohio)
Aaron Pettrey (Raceland, Ky.)
Dan Potokar (Grove City, Ohio)
Rob Rose (Cleveland, Ohio)
Anderson Russell (Atlanta, Ga.)
Ryan Schuck (Selinsgrove, Pa.)
Ray Small (Cleveland, Ohio)
Austin Spitler (Bellbrook, Ohio)
Jon Thoma (Alliance, Ohio)
Marcus Williams (Ironton, Ohio)
Lawrence Wilson (Akron, Ohio)
Doug Worthington (Athol Springs, N.Y.)
This will be the 62nd meeting between Iowa and Ohio State in a series that began in 1922. The Buckeyes have a 44-14-3 lead thus far and are 27-8-1 in all games played in Columbus. Ohio State has won 10 of the last 11 games dating back to 1992. Iowa's 33-7 win in 2004 in Iowa City snapped an eight-game OSU winning streak. The Buckeyes won the last meeting, 38-17, in Iowa City during the 2006 campaign.
Iowa posted a 3-0-1 record in the first four games of the series and recorded three shutouts in that span. Ohio State won 19 of 20 games between 1963 and 1980.
With a win Saturday, the Buckeyes can clinch a Rose Bowl berth and also make a mark on history. Ohio State has won at least a share of the last four Big Ten Championships and would become the first school in conference history to win five or more straight crowns on multiple occasions. The Buckeyes shared the crown with Penn State in 2005 and 2008 and ended the 2006 and 2007 seasons alone atop the standings. Ohio State has clinched four consecutive crowns for the first time since posting a Big Ten-record six straight titles from 1972-77.
At least 5 straight Big Ten Football Titles (single head coach):
6: 1972-77 tOSU, under Woody Hayes
5: 2005-09, if Jim Tressel gets a win against Iowa
In his ninth season as the head coach at Ohio State, Jim Tressel is aiming to join an elite group of coaches to claim six Big Ten championships in his first nine campaigns. In the previous 113 years of Big Ten football, only one coach has finished atop the conference standings in five or more consecutive years, as the Buckeyes' Woody Hayes earned six straight crowns from 1972-77.
Most conference titles in first 9 years in the Big Ten:
7, 1969-77 TSUN's Bo Schembechler (Woody won 9 from '68-'77, but he'd been around)
6, 1932-49 Minnesota's Bernie Bierman (non-consecutive years due to WWII)
6, 2001-09, if Jim Tressel gets a win on Saturday
The Ohio State defense has posted some impressive numbers recently. The Buckeyes have not allowed a 100-yard rusher since Joe McKnight in 2008, and lead the nation in that statistic over the past 5 seasons.
Fewest 100-yd rushers allowed (FBS Teams Since 2005)
7 - Ohio State
8 - Boston College
8 - Alabama
9 - Boise State
10- Florida
10- Kansas
10- Penn State
10- Virginia Tech
The scoring defense has also been stingy, and over that same time span the Buckeyes also lead the nation in the most times holding the opponent to fewer than 21 points.
Number of Games Allowing Fewer than 21 Points (FBS Teams Since 2005)
TEAM No. Record
48 - Ohio State (45-3 in those games)
46 - TCU (43-3)
45 - Virginia Tech (42-3)
44 - Florida (43-1)
43 - Penn State (40-3)
The Ohio State defense is averaging 6.0 three-and-outs per contest this season, leading the nation in that statistic. Ohio State forced New Mexico State to go three-and-out 12 times in that 45-0 shutout. The Buckeyes forced both Toledo and Indiana to go three-and-out seven times, and Penn State eight times.
Most Three-and-outs per game, 2009
6.00 - Ohio State (60 in 10 games)
5.75 - Florida (46/8)
5.60 - Ole Miss (45/8)
5.44 - Texas (49/9)
5.44 - TCU (49/9)
5.12 - Alabama (41/8)
5.00 - Tennessee (40/8)
This week marked the 1000th football poll taken by the AP since weekly polling began in 1936. A familiar team is the one that's been ranked most often.
Most appearances in the AP football poll, all time (1936-present):
764 - Ohio State
757 - TSUN
712 - Notre Dame
688 - Oklahoma
685 - USC
667 - Texas
651 - Nebraska
640 - Alabama
573 - Penn State
564 - Tennessee
With wins in the final two regular season games, tOSU should also take the lead for the most top-10 rankings in the AP poll.
Most top-10 appearances in the AP football poll, (1936-present):
509 - Oklahoma
507 - Ohio State
499 - Nebraska
496 - Notre Dame
488 - TSUN
452 - USC
434 - Texas
404 - Alabama
351 - Penn State
318 - Tennessee
Date: Saturday, November 14th, 2009
Time: 3:30 ET Kick-off
Location: Ohio Stadium - "The Horseshoe" (Columbus, OH)
Constructed: 1922 (Renovated in 2001)
Seating Capacity: 102,329 (Originally 66,210)
Playing Surface: FieldTurf
Location: Ohio Stadium - "The Horseshoe" (Columbus, OH)
Constructed: 1922 (Renovated in 2001)
Seating Capacity: 102,329 (Originally 66,210)
Playing Surface: FieldTurf
Events: Senior Day, Captains Breakfast, Tunnel of Pride
Broadcast Information:
TV Broadcast: ABC, with Sean McDonough (Play-by-Play), Matt Millen (analyst), and Holly Rowe (sideline).
Internet: ESPN360.com: The game is available completely free to any student on campus (in fact, to any student on any U.S. college campus).
Radio: WBNS (FM 97.1 The Fan) Paul Keels will call the play-by-play with former Buckeye Jim Lachey in the booth and Marty Bannister on the sidelines.
Also on Sirius satellite radio Channel 122 and the Sports USA Radio Network.
2009 Iowa Hawkeyes Offensive Preview Broadcast Information:
TV Broadcast: ABC, with Sean McDonough (Play-by-Play), Matt Millen (analyst), and Holly Rowe (sideline).
Internet: ESPN360.com: The game is available completely free to any student on campus (in fact, to any student on any U.S. college campus).
Radio: WBNS (FM 97.1 The Fan) Paul Keels will call the play-by-play with former Buckeye Jim Lachey in the booth and Marty Bannister on the sidelines.
Also on Sirius satellite radio Channel 122 and the Sports USA Radio Network.
Returning starters: 7
Ohio State routed Penn State in Happy Valley, vanquishing an important foe on the road to the Rose Bowl and giving their embattled QB a sense of personal redemption. The Buckeye offense wasn't tremendous, but they held up very well against a tough Penn State defense and proved that they can compete against quality opposition and emerge victorious. Their reward for that effort is a showdown with a wounded Hawkeye squad for all the proverbial marbles in the Big Ten. Win and they have a fantastic chance at the outright Big Ten title and head to the Rose Bowl regardless, likely to face Oregon. Lose and they are likely relegated to the Capital One Bowl. The situation is very similar with Iowa, except that they enter the game with their backup QB and have to play in a hostile environment in Columbus. Iowa has big road wins this season already, however, so they are poised to still be competitive in Columbus. Still, Iowa has only beaten Ohio State once since 1991 and 4 times since 1962, so the Hawkeyes have their work cut out for them as they descend on Columbus Saturday.
It almost seems counterproductive to outline the successes of the Iowa offense this season, considering they will be missing 3 critical parts this weekend. However, Iowa deserves major respect for battling through their injury issues and still maintaining timely offensive production at key moments in the face of losing their QB and arguably their best RB and best OL for a significant part of the stretch run. On the season, Iowa's offensive numbers aren't that impressive overall. They rank just 82nd in total offense with 349.8 yards per game. They have been pretty good throwing the ball, ranking a respectable 45th with 247.8 yards a contest. They have struggled running the ball however, gaining just 119.2 yards a game, ranking 94th. Their 24.1 points per contest ranks just T86th nationally. Iowa hasn't moved the ball especially effectively, as their 183 First Downs on the season ranks T57th. They do have a good 3rd down conversion percentage of 40.8%, which ranks a very respectable 37th. Their turnover margin is +0.5, ranking 35th, so one key to their winning streak was winning or keeping even in the turnover battle. All in all, this is a team built on hard-nosed defense, and given the missing pieces, it will take everything the defense has to keep the game close Saturday, because it is likely that the offense will struggle.
Quarterbacks
QB #16 James Vandenberg (6-3, 205, FR, Keokuk HS, Keokuk, IA)
Obviously the loss of Ricky Stanzi significantly hampers Iowa's hopes of winning out and capturing a Big Ten championship. Despite turning the ball over more than Iowa would like, Stanzi had developed into a solid quarterback and a good team leader, and he was one of 15 semi-finalists for the Davey O'Brien Award. Stanzi threw for 2186 yards and 15 TDs, and entering the Northwestern game, he was coming off of a season high in yards passing (337) and rushing (27) against Indiana. Iowa has built its reputation primarily on the ground, but big plays in the vertical passing game have been a key to their success this season. Thus enter Vandenberg, who had seen only mop-up duty against Iowa State before being thrust into the spotlight against Northwestern. He did not respond as Iowa had hoped, completing only 9/27 for 82 yards and a costly interception. Vandenberg is a big kid with a sizeable arm who may very well develop into a fine quarterback. This week, however, he makes his first career start against a defense that held Penn State to 7 points and flustered Daryll Clark all game, something Northwestern, the team he just played against, was unable to do. It will be a very difficult undertaking for Vandenberg to find success this week. The Buckeyes will probably key on the running game early and then unleash the pass rush while daring him to throw the ball. USC's Barkley played pretty well as a freshman against the Buckeyes earlier this season, but the Ohio State defense contained the USC offense for most of that game as well.
There is no doubt that Vandenberg is facing an extremely tall order this weekend, and if last Saturday was any indication, the signs aren't that encouraging for Iowa faithful. He will have a week of practice with the first team, but that seems like it will be of little comfort for Iowa fans. The backup is fellow freshman John Wienke (#14) who has even less experience than Vandenberg.
QB Rating: D
Head-to-Head: Iowa versus Ohio State QBs
Vandenberg: 11/30 (36.7%), 120 yards, 0 TDs, 1 INT, 63.6 rating; 4/2, 0 TDs
Pryor: 121/224 (54.0%), 1668 yards, 15 TDs, 9 INTs, 130.6 rating; 115/604, 7 TDs
Pryor versus Stanzi would have been an interesting breakdown, but ankle surgery prevents such a matchup from taking place. This, as it is, just isn't fair. Vandenberg is a freshman who doubtlessly didn't expect to see any significant action the rest of the way as Iowa was attempting a run at the BCS title game, whereas Pryor has shown in the past 3 games that he is able to make adjustments and to make significant improvement in a number of areas. Last week's game was probably the best combination of Pryor playing well and a game plan geared towards what he does well that Buckeye fans have seen since he arrived on campus. Look for more of the same this week, as the Buckeyes know they have the decided advantage in talent, athletic ability, and game experience going in. Vandenberg has an impressive high school pedigree and could develop into a force by the time he is a senior, but he will be significantly outmatched Saturday.
Edge: Ohio State
Running Backs
TB #3 Brandon Wegher (5-11, 206, FR, SC Heelan HS, Dakota Dunes, SD)
FB #36 Brett Morse (6-3, 238, JR, Hinsdale Central HS, Willowbrook, IL)
Injuries have also struck the running back position, as freshman sensation Adam Robinson (#32) was seriously injured in the Michigan State game. He had been very, very good for the Hawkeyes, gaining at least 60 yards in 7 of the 8 games he played in and cracking the 100 yard barrier twice, against Arizona and Michigan State, after taking over the starting job in the second game. In his place, Wegher has stepped up his production. He first saw action in the Iowa State game (game 2), gaining 101 yards and scoring a TD in only 15 carries, and he has been a regular contributor since. He has started the past 2 contests, and looks to have the job for the remainder of the regular season. He has had great games (Iowa State, as well as 25 carries for 118 yards and 3 TDs against Indiana) and terrible ones (11 carries, 1 yard against Wisconsin) so it will be interesting to see what kind of game he can have against the swarming Buckeye defense that shut down the Nittany Lions last week. He has good power and good speed, and he is also a very good receiver out of the backfield (13 receptions), which could be of paramount importance given the inexperience of the QB and the effectiveness of the Buckeye pass rush. Walk-on Paki O'Meara (#25) is now the primary backup. He started the opening contest, but was ineffective, gaining just 16 yards on 9 carries. He has only 33 yards on 15 carries and only 1 reception this season, so don't expect a lot of production out of him this Saturday.
At fullback, Morse is a solid player and a very good blocker. He has 4 carries for 32 yards and 6 catches for 24 yards and a TD, so he does see the ball occasionally, but his primary role is opening holes for Wegher in the running game.
RB Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Iowa versus Ohio State RBs
Wegher: 131/502 yards, 6 TDs, 3.8 YPC; 13 rec/112 yards, 0 TDs, 8.6 YPR
O'Meara: 15/33 yards, 0 TDs, 2.2 YPC; 1 rec/14 yards, 0 TDs, 14.0 YPR
Saine: 108/507 yards, 1 TD, 4.7 YPC; 11 rec/149 yards, 1 TD, 13.5 YPR
Herron: 88/365 yards, 6 TDs, 4.1 YPC; 5 rec/34 yards, 0 TDs, 6.8 YPR
Again this would be much more intriguing if it was Robinson and Wegher compared to Saine and Herron, but injuries have depleted the Hawkeyes at this position as well. Wegher has been a solid back and he had a very good game against Indiana, but he struggled last weekend against Northwestern as Iowa totaled only 65 yards rushing. Saine and Herron offer a reasonably effective one-two combination, and it appears that both might finally be healthy enough to consistently contribute simultaneously again. Wegher and Saine are both effective out of the backfield catching passes as well. Herron had a solid game against a tough Nittany Lion defense last week, so his return to health might be the difference here. Iowa has virtually nothing behind Wegher, as O'Meara has been relatively ineffective.
Edge: Ohio State
Wide Receivers
WR #15 Derrell Johnson-Koulianos (6-1, 200, JR, Cardinal Mooney HS, Campbell, OH)
WR #7 Marvin McNutt (6-4, 215, SO, Hazelwood Central HS, St. Louis, MO)
WR #86 Trey Stross (6-4, 200, SR, Avon Lake HS, Avon Lake, OH)
This is one unit on the team where the Hawkeyes have not been beset by injuries, though junior Colin Sandeman (#22) has missed significant time. Iowa is 3-deep at the wideout position, and all have made major contributions this season. Johnson-Koulianos has been a prime player for 3 seasons and has led the team in receptions and receiving yardage in each of the past 2 seasons. Last year he had a career-high 44 catches for 639 yards and 3 TDs, and he appears poised to be able to match all 3 totals this season as he again leads the team in both categories. He has cracked the 100 yard mark 2 times this year, catching 8 passes for 113 yards against Wisconsin and 3 passes for 117 yards and a TD against Indiana. He has good speed and big play potential, and he is a major force in the vertical passing game. On the other side, Stross has stepped up his game after catching 13, 16, and 13 passes the past 3 seasons. He hasn't had too many big games, but he has been a steady contributor, catching at least 2 passes in 8 games. He caught 4 passes for 69 yards against Iowa State and 4 for 64 and his lone TD against Arkansas State. McNutt is listed at 1A behind Johnson-Koulianos, and he is the primary backup and extra wideout in 3 receiver packages. After catching only 1 pass in 2008, he has been a nice player for the Hawkeyes, particularly downfield, as his 23.8 YPR attests to. His highlights include a 4 catch, 121 yard, 2 TD game against Arkansas State and 4 catch, 155 yard, 1 TD game against Indiana. He also had 91 yards receiving last week and has scored in each of the past 3 games, so he is definitely a player to keep an eye on and is very dangerous if Iowa is able to throw the ball downfield Saturday.
The Hawkeyes don't ttypically go much deeper at wideout, especially with the injury to Sandeman. Freshman Keenan Davis (#6) is the primary reserve, but he has just 4 receptions for 51 yards and a TD on the season.
WR Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Iowa versus Ohio State WRs
Johnson-Koulianos: 31 catches, 553 yards, 2 TDs, 17.8 YPR
McNutt: 23 catches, 547 yards, 5 TDs, 23.8 YPR
Stross: 25 catches, 368 yards, 1 TD, 14.7 YPR
Posey: 45 catches, 672 yards, 7 TDs, 14.9 YPR
Sanzenbacher: 24 catches, 482 yards, 6 TDs, 20.1 YPR
Carter: 12 catches, 164 yards, 1 TD, 13.7 YPR
Iowa has a nice group of wideouts, though they are only 3 deep. Johnson-Koulianos has been a good player for 3 seasons now, and Stross has elevated his game this year. McNutt appears to be an explosive talent who has major upside. Likewise, the Buckeyes have a fine arsenal of young playmakers at their disposal. Posey is a huge weapon, while Sanzenbacher and Carter have developed nicely throughout the course of the season. Both teams have players with good hands and good skills running routes, and both have legitimate deep threats. It would not be at all surprising to see the Buckeyes put up significantly better numbers Saturday, but don't confuse that for a lack of talent at the wideout position for the Hawkeyes. Iowa is every bit as talented as the Buckeyes here, and vice versa.
Edge: Even
Tight Ends
TE #81 Tony Moeaki (6-4, 250, SR, Warrenville South HS, Wheaton, IL)
For the second straight week, the Buckeyes face a team with exceptional TE play. Moeaki has also been bitten by the injury bug this season, missing the better part of 3 games, but he came back with a vengeance against Michigan with a performance (6 receptions, 105 yards, 2 TDs) that earned him Big Ten Player of the Week honors. He is a steady contributor to the passing game, which will be especially important this weekend, as he offers a big target over the middle for a green quarterback. He is also a fine blocker, as the continued production of the running game despite its depleted ranks is partially attributable to his consistent blocking. He had 10 receptions in the opener against Northern Iowa, so he can even take over a game when called upon. His backup is junior Allen Reisner (#82). Reisner is also a good blocker and a consistent contributor to the passing game. He had 9 catches in the 3 games Moeaki missed, and has a total of 13 for 134 yards and a score on the season. With both in the game, the Hawkeyes can be deadly in the red zone rushing or passing.
TE Rating: A
Head-to-Head: Iowa versus Ohio State TEs
Moeaki: 23 catches, 274 yards, 4 TDs, 11.9 YPR
Ballard: 10 catches, 102 yards, 0 TDs, 10.2 YPR
Iowa has exceptionally good TEs, and Moeaki is on the midseason Mackey Award list. Reisner is also an able backup and a good player on his own. Ballard has played well this season, but the Hawkeyes have the clear edge here.
Edge: Iowa
Offensive Line
LT #79 Bryan Bulaga (6-6, 315, JR, Marian Central HS, Crystal Lake, IL)
LG #77 Riley Reiff (6-6, 280, FR, Parkson HS, Parkson, SD)
C #52 Rafael Eubanks (6-3, 280, SR, Cretin-Derham Hall HS, St. Paul, MN)
RG #63 Julian Vandervelde (6-3, 300, JR, Central HS, Davenport, IA)
RT #60 Kyle Calloway (6-7, 315, SR, East HS, Belleville, IL)
It is a testament to the Iowa line that they have won so many games despite all the injuries that have riddled the offense. Sadly, the line hasn't been exempt either, as senior Dace Richardson (#78), arguably their best and most versatile linemen (1 start at RT, 4 at LG, 3 at RG) has once again been beset by injury, much like the past 2 seasons. He was hurt in the Michigan State game and again looks like he won't play this weekend. Despite the setback, the Iowa line is still very good. Anchoring the line outside is Bulaga, who was 2nd team all-Big Ten last year and is on the Lombardi and Outland watch lists this season. He is a tall and physical lineman who provides valuable leadership and experience. Bulaga himself suffered through injury and illness early in the season, but he has cemented the LT spot since week 5 against Arkansas State. Reiff is a quick and versatile lineman who started in Bulaga's place in the 3 games he missed and has started every other game at LG except the opener. He began the season on the 2nd team but has worked his way into being a fixture in the lineup because of his tenacity and mobility. In the middle, Eubanks has anchored the line every game. He has ample starting experience at guard and center, so he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the line. He is a smart and mobile player who is adept at making line calls. Vandervelde has been in and out of the lineup as the starting LG, splitting time with Richardson and also dealing with some injury issues. He has started the past 2 games and looks to be settling in to the job. He also has previous starting experience, so he brings veteran leadership to the offense as well. At RT, Calloway has started all but the opener. He was 2nd team all-Big Ten last year and is in his 3rd season starting at tackle, with experience on both the left and right sides of the line. He is a tall and physical lineman who is a good run blocker as well as a good pass blocker. Collectively, the line has seen more than its share of personnel shifting, but as a unit it has kept it together and it is a major reason for the success in 2009.
The Hawkeyes also have some program veterans as backups. Senior Dan Doering (#74) started the opener at RG and is the primary backup there. Fellow senior Andy Kuempel (90) mans the LG spot. Junior Josh Koeppel (#67) is the backup at center. Sophomore Adam Gettis (#73) started the opener at LG and is a reserve on the interior. Sophomore Markus Zusevics (#56) mans the RT spot.
OL Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Iowa versus Ohio State OL
This rating would be higher for Iowa if not for all the injuries and upheaval at several spots. Still, the Hawkeyes have persevered through significant injuries at the RB spot to win 9 of 10 games, a testament to the quality of the line play. The pass blocking hasn't been outstanding, but they have broken many big plays in the vertical passing game this season en route to their 9 wins. The Hawkeyes will have to be especially strong up front this weekend against the Buckeye defense, as they are breaking in (or covering for) an inexperienced freshman QB. The Buckeye line has finally started showing signs of having the talent that everyone thought they had at the beginning of the season. This will never be considered a great line, but they had a much better game last weekend against a tough Penn State front 7 and have shown improvement over the past month or so. Both teams have had their share of injuries and sporadic play, and both units will be critical for the success of their respective teams this weekend, as the defenses may very well dominate the day. Richardson's injury really hurts the Hawkeyes, but there are still plenty of talented players up front to give the Buckeyes a run for their money. Still, the edge goes to a healthier and more cohesive Ohio State unit.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Offensive Analysis
This is not the same offense that peaked in the middle of the season for the Hawkeyes, and the production this weekend could resemble the Northern Iowa game, as the Hawkeyes were trying to break in several new players and see where everyone fit in. It's amazing they haven't dropped off more considering the injury to Robinson, but Wegher has stepped up and filled in admirably. The WRs are good and the squad is legitimately 3-deep at the position, but the question now will be can the QB get them the ball. The TEs are excellent, and may take on added importance with a young and inexperienced QB and a running game that is really down to one primary player. The line play will still be good, but they have also lost a key player and have seen a lot of shifting. The same 5 players have finally started 2 games in a row, but they didn't play especially well last week and the offense looked OK with Stanzi but terrible after he left the game. Not many people are giving Iowa much of a shot this weekend, as their injury-riddled offense now has to face their toughest test to date. However, Iowa has also won some tough road games this year (at Penn State, Wisconsin, Michigan State) so it would be foolish to count them out entirely. It will be imperative for the rest of the offense to protect the QB as much as they can, running the ball effectively and giving him time to read the defense when they throw the ball. The receivers also will need to get open effectively and quickly. If Vandenberg can avoid making any significant mistakes and if the running game can control the clock some, the Hawkeye defense is good enough to give them a chance to win at the end. It will be a tough task, but Iowa has risen to meet challenges all season long. This weekend will be their biggest, and they are without their offensive leader and the confidence they had for most of the rest of the season when they didn't lose a game. However, given the stakes of this game, don't be at all surprised to see an inspired effort, even if they appear overmatched on paper.
Overall Offensive Rating: C
2009 Iowa Hawkeyes Defensive Preview It almost seems counterproductive to outline the successes of the Iowa offense this season, considering they will be missing 3 critical parts this weekend. However, Iowa deserves major respect for battling through their injury issues and still maintaining timely offensive production at key moments in the face of losing their QB and arguably their best RB and best OL for a significant part of the stretch run. On the season, Iowa's offensive numbers aren't that impressive overall. They rank just 82nd in total offense with 349.8 yards per game. They have been pretty good throwing the ball, ranking a respectable 45th with 247.8 yards a contest. They have struggled running the ball however, gaining just 119.2 yards a game, ranking 94th. Their 24.1 points per contest ranks just T86th nationally. Iowa hasn't moved the ball especially effectively, as their 183 First Downs on the season ranks T57th. They do have a good 3rd down conversion percentage of 40.8%, which ranks a very respectable 37th. Their turnover margin is +0.5, ranking 35th, so one key to their winning streak was winning or keeping even in the turnover battle. All in all, this is a team built on hard-nosed defense, and given the missing pieces, it will take everything the defense has to keep the game close Saturday, because it is likely that the offense will struggle.
Quarterbacks
QB #16 James Vandenberg (6-3, 205, FR, Keokuk HS, Keokuk, IA)
Obviously the loss of Ricky Stanzi significantly hampers Iowa's hopes of winning out and capturing a Big Ten championship. Despite turning the ball over more than Iowa would like, Stanzi had developed into a solid quarterback and a good team leader, and he was one of 15 semi-finalists for the Davey O'Brien Award. Stanzi threw for 2186 yards and 15 TDs, and entering the Northwestern game, he was coming off of a season high in yards passing (337) and rushing (27) against Indiana. Iowa has built its reputation primarily on the ground, but big plays in the vertical passing game have been a key to their success this season. Thus enter Vandenberg, who had seen only mop-up duty against Iowa State before being thrust into the spotlight against Northwestern. He did not respond as Iowa had hoped, completing only 9/27 for 82 yards and a costly interception. Vandenberg is a big kid with a sizeable arm who may very well develop into a fine quarterback. This week, however, he makes his first career start against a defense that held Penn State to 7 points and flustered Daryll Clark all game, something Northwestern, the team he just played against, was unable to do. It will be a very difficult undertaking for Vandenberg to find success this week. The Buckeyes will probably key on the running game early and then unleash the pass rush while daring him to throw the ball. USC's Barkley played pretty well as a freshman against the Buckeyes earlier this season, but the Ohio State defense contained the USC offense for most of that game as well.
There is no doubt that Vandenberg is facing an extremely tall order this weekend, and if last Saturday was any indication, the signs aren't that encouraging for Iowa faithful. He will have a week of practice with the first team, but that seems like it will be of little comfort for Iowa fans. The backup is fellow freshman John Wienke (#14) who has even less experience than Vandenberg.
QB Rating: D
Head-to-Head: Iowa versus Ohio State QBs
Vandenberg: 11/30 (36.7%), 120 yards, 0 TDs, 1 INT, 63.6 rating; 4/2, 0 TDs
Pryor: 121/224 (54.0%), 1668 yards, 15 TDs, 9 INTs, 130.6 rating; 115/604, 7 TDs
Pryor versus Stanzi would have been an interesting breakdown, but ankle surgery prevents such a matchup from taking place. This, as it is, just isn't fair. Vandenberg is a freshman who doubtlessly didn't expect to see any significant action the rest of the way as Iowa was attempting a run at the BCS title game, whereas Pryor has shown in the past 3 games that he is able to make adjustments and to make significant improvement in a number of areas. Last week's game was probably the best combination of Pryor playing well and a game plan geared towards what he does well that Buckeye fans have seen since he arrived on campus. Look for more of the same this week, as the Buckeyes know they have the decided advantage in talent, athletic ability, and game experience going in. Vandenberg has an impressive high school pedigree and could develop into a force by the time he is a senior, but he will be significantly outmatched Saturday.
Edge: Ohio State
Running Backs
TB #3 Brandon Wegher (5-11, 206, FR, SC Heelan HS, Dakota Dunes, SD)
FB #36 Brett Morse (6-3, 238, JR, Hinsdale Central HS, Willowbrook, IL)
Injuries have also struck the running back position, as freshman sensation Adam Robinson (#32) was seriously injured in the Michigan State game. He had been very, very good for the Hawkeyes, gaining at least 60 yards in 7 of the 8 games he played in and cracking the 100 yard barrier twice, against Arizona and Michigan State, after taking over the starting job in the second game. In his place, Wegher has stepped up his production. He first saw action in the Iowa State game (game 2), gaining 101 yards and scoring a TD in only 15 carries, and he has been a regular contributor since. He has started the past 2 contests, and looks to have the job for the remainder of the regular season. He has had great games (Iowa State, as well as 25 carries for 118 yards and 3 TDs against Indiana) and terrible ones (11 carries, 1 yard against Wisconsin) so it will be interesting to see what kind of game he can have against the swarming Buckeye defense that shut down the Nittany Lions last week. He has good power and good speed, and he is also a very good receiver out of the backfield (13 receptions), which could be of paramount importance given the inexperience of the QB and the effectiveness of the Buckeye pass rush. Walk-on Paki O'Meara (#25) is now the primary backup. He started the opening contest, but was ineffective, gaining just 16 yards on 9 carries. He has only 33 yards on 15 carries and only 1 reception this season, so don't expect a lot of production out of him this Saturday.
At fullback, Morse is a solid player and a very good blocker. He has 4 carries for 32 yards and 6 catches for 24 yards and a TD, so he does see the ball occasionally, but his primary role is opening holes for Wegher in the running game.
RB Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Iowa versus Ohio State RBs
Wegher: 131/502 yards, 6 TDs, 3.8 YPC; 13 rec/112 yards, 0 TDs, 8.6 YPR
O'Meara: 15/33 yards, 0 TDs, 2.2 YPC; 1 rec/14 yards, 0 TDs, 14.0 YPR
Saine: 108/507 yards, 1 TD, 4.7 YPC; 11 rec/149 yards, 1 TD, 13.5 YPR
Herron: 88/365 yards, 6 TDs, 4.1 YPC; 5 rec/34 yards, 0 TDs, 6.8 YPR
Again this would be much more intriguing if it was Robinson and Wegher compared to Saine and Herron, but injuries have depleted the Hawkeyes at this position as well. Wegher has been a solid back and he had a very good game against Indiana, but he struggled last weekend against Northwestern as Iowa totaled only 65 yards rushing. Saine and Herron offer a reasonably effective one-two combination, and it appears that both might finally be healthy enough to consistently contribute simultaneously again. Wegher and Saine are both effective out of the backfield catching passes as well. Herron had a solid game against a tough Nittany Lion defense last week, so his return to health might be the difference here. Iowa has virtually nothing behind Wegher, as O'Meara has been relatively ineffective.
Edge: Ohio State
Wide Receivers
WR #15 Derrell Johnson-Koulianos (6-1, 200, JR, Cardinal Mooney HS, Campbell, OH)
WR #7 Marvin McNutt (6-4, 215, SO, Hazelwood Central HS, St. Louis, MO)
WR #86 Trey Stross (6-4, 200, SR, Avon Lake HS, Avon Lake, OH)
This is one unit on the team where the Hawkeyes have not been beset by injuries, though junior Colin Sandeman (#22) has missed significant time. Iowa is 3-deep at the wideout position, and all have made major contributions this season. Johnson-Koulianos has been a prime player for 3 seasons and has led the team in receptions and receiving yardage in each of the past 2 seasons. Last year he had a career-high 44 catches for 639 yards and 3 TDs, and he appears poised to be able to match all 3 totals this season as he again leads the team in both categories. He has cracked the 100 yard mark 2 times this year, catching 8 passes for 113 yards against Wisconsin and 3 passes for 117 yards and a TD against Indiana. He has good speed and big play potential, and he is a major force in the vertical passing game. On the other side, Stross has stepped up his game after catching 13, 16, and 13 passes the past 3 seasons. He hasn't had too many big games, but he has been a steady contributor, catching at least 2 passes in 8 games. He caught 4 passes for 69 yards against Iowa State and 4 for 64 and his lone TD against Arkansas State. McNutt is listed at 1A behind Johnson-Koulianos, and he is the primary backup and extra wideout in 3 receiver packages. After catching only 1 pass in 2008, he has been a nice player for the Hawkeyes, particularly downfield, as his 23.8 YPR attests to. His highlights include a 4 catch, 121 yard, 2 TD game against Arkansas State and 4 catch, 155 yard, 1 TD game against Indiana. He also had 91 yards receiving last week and has scored in each of the past 3 games, so he is definitely a player to keep an eye on and is very dangerous if Iowa is able to throw the ball downfield Saturday.
The Hawkeyes don't ttypically go much deeper at wideout, especially with the injury to Sandeman. Freshman Keenan Davis (#6) is the primary reserve, but he has just 4 receptions for 51 yards and a TD on the season.
WR Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Iowa versus Ohio State WRs
Johnson-Koulianos: 31 catches, 553 yards, 2 TDs, 17.8 YPR
McNutt: 23 catches, 547 yards, 5 TDs, 23.8 YPR
Stross: 25 catches, 368 yards, 1 TD, 14.7 YPR
Posey: 45 catches, 672 yards, 7 TDs, 14.9 YPR
Sanzenbacher: 24 catches, 482 yards, 6 TDs, 20.1 YPR
Carter: 12 catches, 164 yards, 1 TD, 13.7 YPR
Iowa has a nice group of wideouts, though they are only 3 deep. Johnson-Koulianos has been a good player for 3 seasons now, and Stross has elevated his game this year. McNutt appears to be an explosive talent who has major upside. Likewise, the Buckeyes have a fine arsenal of young playmakers at their disposal. Posey is a huge weapon, while Sanzenbacher and Carter have developed nicely throughout the course of the season. Both teams have players with good hands and good skills running routes, and both have legitimate deep threats. It would not be at all surprising to see the Buckeyes put up significantly better numbers Saturday, but don't confuse that for a lack of talent at the wideout position for the Hawkeyes. Iowa is every bit as talented as the Buckeyes here, and vice versa.
Edge: Even
Tight Ends
TE #81 Tony Moeaki (6-4, 250, SR, Warrenville South HS, Wheaton, IL)
For the second straight week, the Buckeyes face a team with exceptional TE play. Moeaki has also been bitten by the injury bug this season, missing the better part of 3 games, but he came back with a vengeance against Michigan with a performance (6 receptions, 105 yards, 2 TDs) that earned him Big Ten Player of the Week honors. He is a steady contributor to the passing game, which will be especially important this weekend, as he offers a big target over the middle for a green quarterback. He is also a fine blocker, as the continued production of the running game despite its depleted ranks is partially attributable to his consistent blocking. He had 10 receptions in the opener against Northern Iowa, so he can even take over a game when called upon. His backup is junior Allen Reisner (#82). Reisner is also a good blocker and a consistent contributor to the passing game. He had 9 catches in the 3 games Moeaki missed, and has a total of 13 for 134 yards and a score on the season. With both in the game, the Hawkeyes can be deadly in the red zone rushing or passing.
TE Rating: A
Head-to-Head: Iowa versus Ohio State TEs
Moeaki: 23 catches, 274 yards, 4 TDs, 11.9 YPR
Ballard: 10 catches, 102 yards, 0 TDs, 10.2 YPR
Iowa has exceptionally good TEs, and Moeaki is on the midseason Mackey Award list. Reisner is also an able backup and a good player on his own. Ballard has played well this season, but the Hawkeyes have the clear edge here.
Edge: Iowa
Offensive Line
LT #79 Bryan Bulaga (6-6, 315, JR, Marian Central HS, Crystal Lake, IL)
LG #77 Riley Reiff (6-6, 280, FR, Parkson HS, Parkson, SD)
C #52 Rafael Eubanks (6-3, 280, SR, Cretin-Derham Hall HS, St. Paul, MN)
RG #63 Julian Vandervelde (6-3, 300, JR, Central HS, Davenport, IA)
RT #60 Kyle Calloway (6-7, 315, SR, East HS, Belleville, IL)
It is a testament to the Iowa line that they have won so many games despite all the injuries that have riddled the offense. Sadly, the line hasn't been exempt either, as senior Dace Richardson (#78), arguably their best and most versatile linemen (1 start at RT, 4 at LG, 3 at RG) has once again been beset by injury, much like the past 2 seasons. He was hurt in the Michigan State game and again looks like he won't play this weekend. Despite the setback, the Iowa line is still very good. Anchoring the line outside is Bulaga, who was 2nd team all-Big Ten last year and is on the Lombardi and Outland watch lists this season. He is a tall and physical lineman who provides valuable leadership and experience. Bulaga himself suffered through injury and illness early in the season, but he has cemented the LT spot since week 5 against Arkansas State. Reiff is a quick and versatile lineman who started in Bulaga's place in the 3 games he missed and has started every other game at LG except the opener. He began the season on the 2nd team but has worked his way into being a fixture in the lineup because of his tenacity and mobility. In the middle, Eubanks has anchored the line every game. He has ample starting experience at guard and center, so he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the line. He is a smart and mobile player who is adept at making line calls. Vandervelde has been in and out of the lineup as the starting LG, splitting time with Richardson and also dealing with some injury issues. He has started the past 2 games and looks to be settling in to the job. He also has previous starting experience, so he brings veteran leadership to the offense as well. At RT, Calloway has started all but the opener. He was 2nd team all-Big Ten last year and is in his 3rd season starting at tackle, with experience on both the left and right sides of the line. He is a tall and physical lineman who is a good run blocker as well as a good pass blocker. Collectively, the line has seen more than its share of personnel shifting, but as a unit it has kept it together and it is a major reason for the success in 2009.
The Hawkeyes also have some program veterans as backups. Senior Dan Doering (#74) started the opener at RG and is the primary backup there. Fellow senior Andy Kuempel (90) mans the LG spot. Junior Josh Koeppel (#67) is the backup at center. Sophomore Adam Gettis (#73) started the opener at LG and is a reserve on the interior. Sophomore Markus Zusevics (#56) mans the RT spot.
OL Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Iowa versus Ohio State OL
This rating would be higher for Iowa if not for all the injuries and upheaval at several spots. Still, the Hawkeyes have persevered through significant injuries at the RB spot to win 9 of 10 games, a testament to the quality of the line play. The pass blocking hasn't been outstanding, but they have broken many big plays in the vertical passing game this season en route to their 9 wins. The Hawkeyes will have to be especially strong up front this weekend against the Buckeye defense, as they are breaking in (or covering for) an inexperienced freshman QB. The Buckeye line has finally started showing signs of having the talent that everyone thought they had at the beginning of the season. This will never be considered a great line, but they had a much better game last weekend against a tough Penn State front 7 and have shown improvement over the past month or so. Both teams have had their share of injuries and sporadic play, and both units will be critical for the success of their respective teams this weekend, as the defenses may very well dominate the day. Richardson's injury really hurts the Hawkeyes, but there are still plenty of talented players up front to give the Buckeyes a run for their money. Still, the edge goes to a healthier and more cohesive Ohio State unit.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Offensive Analysis
This is not the same offense that peaked in the middle of the season for the Hawkeyes, and the production this weekend could resemble the Northern Iowa game, as the Hawkeyes were trying to break in several new players and see where everyone fit in. It's amazing they haven't dropped off more considering the injury to Robinson, but Wegher has stepped up and filled in admirably. The WRs are good and the squad is legitimately 3-deep at the position, but the question now will be can the QB get them the ball. The TEs are excellent, and may take on added importance with a young and inexperienced QB and a running game that is really down to one primary player. The line play will still be good, but they have also lost a key player and have seen a lot of shifting. The same 5 players have finally started 2 games in a row, but they didn't play especially well last week and the offense looked OK with Stanzi but terrible after he left the game. Not many people are giving Iowa much of a shot this weekend, as their injury-riddled offense now has to face their toughest test to date. However, Iowa has also won some tough road games this year (at Penn State, Wisconsin, Michigan State) so it would be foolish to count them out entirely. It will be imperative for the rest of the offense to protect the QB as much as they can, running the ball effectively and giving him time to read the defense when they throw the ball. The receivers also will need to get open effectively and quickly. If Vandenberg can avoid making any significant mistakes and if the running game can control the clock some, the Hawkeye defense is good enough to give them a chance to win at the end. It will be a tough task, but Iowa has risen to meet challenges all season long. This weekend will be their biggest, and they are without their offensive leader and the confidence they had for most of the rest of the season when they didn't lose a game. However, given the stakes of this game, don't be at all surprised to see an inspired effort, even if they appear overmatched on paper.
Overall Offensive Rating: C
Returning Starters: 8
Iowa's defensive coordinator, Norm Parker, began his coaching career in 1965 as the Head Coach of St. John's High School in Michigan. He entered the college ranks in 1968 when he took a position as O-Line coach for Eastern Michigan. After that season, Parker left the midwest to join the staff at Wake Forest where he coached Tight Ends and Wide Receivers from 1969 to 1971. Then, in 1972 he returned to the midwest to coach the Defensive Line at Minnesota. He remained with the Gophers until taking a position coaching Illinois LBs in 1977. He was offered the Defensive Coordinator job at East Carolina in 1980, which he kept until returning to the Big Ten in 1983 as Michigan State's LB coach. He remained at MSU until 1994 and had become MSU's Defensive Coordinator by the time he left (1990-1994). In 1995 he went back to coaching LBs, this time at Vanderbilt and two years later he was named Vandy's Defensive Coordinator. After taking the 1998 season off he joined Iowa's staff in 1999 as Defensive Coordinator and as LBs coach. With an emphasis on "keeping the play in front of you" the Iowa Defense has been among the more consistent units in the Big Ten over time. Likewise, Iowa likes to keep it physical by hitting you early and often. Not the flashiest of units up front, they tend to get the job done and are helped by a ball-hawking secondary.
Stats.......|Score..|Tot.Yds..|Rush..|Pass..|INT.| Fum.|Sack.|1stD..|3rd D..|.PCT..|Red Zone.|.PCT.|RZ TDs.|PCT.|TOF..|
Iowa........|.15.9..|..291.7..|118.7.|173.0.|.19.|..7..|.21..|.153..|55-150.|.37%..|.21-24...|.88%.|.12-24.|50%.|28:25|
Ohio State..|.11.2..|..254.1..|.85.4.|168.7.|.16.|..9..|.27..|.145..|47-149.|.32%..|.13-16...|.81%.|.10-16.|64%.|29:53|
* TOF = Time on Field (Opponent's T.O.P)
While Ohio State enjoys statistical advantages in virtually every category above, Iowa's defense is still quite solid overall. Coming into the 2009 season the chief concern on this side of the ball was up front, as the Hawkeyes lost both interior linemen (Mitch King and Matt Kroul). Bearing out that concern, the Hawkeyes give up nearly 120 a game on the ground. That said, the Hawkeyes line has also been decent at getting in to opposing backfields and can force a QB to make some errant throws. A lot of those bad throws end up in the hands of Iowa personnel. While the Hawkeyes have faced 8 more Red Zone opportunities than the Buckeyes, they have done a good job at limiting those chances to field goals instead of touchdowns. The Buckeyes, meanwhile, let few opponents even get to the 20, but when they do they are more likely to score a TD (10), rather than kick the three (3). For the curious, Iowa requires teams to run 4.08 plays per point (28.6 per 7 points) while the Buckeyes require 5.75 plays of their opponents per point (40.3 per 7). Iowa also yields a point every 18.4 yards (128.4 per 7 points) while the Buckeyes make their opponents go 22.7 yards per point (159.0 per 7).
Defensive Line
RE #91 Broderick Binns (6-2, 255, So.)
DT #46 Christian Ballard (6-5, 285, Jr.)
DT #95 Karl Klug (6-4, 258, Jr.)
LE #94 Adrian Clayborn (6-3, 282, Jr.)
As mentioned above, Iowa has had to replace their interior line and have done so with a couple of juniors. Of those two, King has been the more impressive thus far. Small for an interior player, he is quick and active which has helped him acquire 31.5 tackles, 10 for loss with 3 sacks and 1 fumble recovery. Ballard, meanwhile, moves to the interior where he is probably better suited than he was playing outside. He has good explosiveness for a man his size, but needs to establish more consistency in making plays behind the LOS. In 2009 he has 25.5 tackles, 4.5 for loss with 3 sacks. Among all linemen, Binns has been the most productive in making stops and may just be the most talented of the bunch. He leads the line with 35 stops, 7 for loss with 4.5 sacks and a fumble recovery. If Binns is not the most talented, Clayborn is. While better against the run historically, Clayborn has stepped up his game this season. He leads the team with 13.5 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks. Altogether he's made 31 tackles and also has recovered a fumble.
Ends: #64 Cody Hundertmark (6-4, 280, So.), and #58 Lebron Daniel (6-2, 250, So.), and tackles: #93 Mike Daniels (6-1, 267, So.) and #61 Travis Meade (6-0, 285, Sr.) provide depth on the line. However, after the starting four, the production drops off quite significantly. Mike Daniels has seen action in each of the Hawkeyes' 10 games but only has 4 tackles to show for it, tops among the reserves. He also has recorded 1.5 sacks, the most for any non-starting lineman. Meade has 1 tackle in 9 games while Daniel has 1 in 10. Hundertmark has yet to record a tackle.
OL Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Iowa versus OSU DL
While the Buckeyes starting front four is the better of the two units, the biggest advantage the Ohio State line enjoys over the Iowa line is productive depth. After the Iowa front four, the reserves have a total of 6 tackles while Ohio State reserves have 22 from Nathan Williams alone. The Buckeyes have been better at getting on the other side of the LOS and limiting opposing running games while also coming up with the occasional interception (Wilson, Denlinger). Iowa's line isn't bad, but it's not in the same tier as Ohio State's.
Edge: Ohio State
Linebackers
SLB #49 A.J. Edds (6-4, 244, Sr.)
MLB #43 Pat Angerer (6-1, 235, Sr.)
WLB #42 Jeremiha Hunter (6-2, 235, Jr.)
Iowa has a decent tradition of hard hitting, fundamentally sound linebackers with next level talent and this season the corps is lead by Pat Angerer. A solid and instinctive tackler, Angerer doesn't get beat at the point of attack by too many running backs and is a very capable pass defender as well. He leads the Hawkeyes with 70.5 tackles this season. Of those stops 4 have come for loss with 1 sack. He also has a 38 yard INT return to his credit. Edds is a consistent force on the outside, though he's seen his tackles numbers decline in each of the last two seasons after recording 80 as a sophomore. However, as he's a former tight end he has very good hands and leads the LBs with 3 picks this season to go along with 33 tackles, 4.5 for loss with half a sack. On the weak side, Hunter has begun to live up to the potential Iowa saw when he was a recruit after a successful 2008 campaign. He's quick and big, but could improve in coverage and could also stand to improve his pass rushing abilities. Nonetheless, he is second on the team with 54 tackles, 4 for loss with a sack and 1 INT.
Reserve LBs include: #45 Tyler Nielsen (6-4, 232, So.), #33 Jeff Tarpinian (6-3, 233, Jr.), #57 Bruce Davis (6-0, 232, So.) and #48 Troy Johnson (6-2, 235, Jr.). Like the D-Line, after the top 3 LBs, the production of the reserves falls straight through the floor. Davis, a Cleveland Glenville product has been the most productive with 10.5 tackles in 10 games, but he is not listed on the two deep. Likewise, each of Nielsen, Tarpinian and Johnson have seen action in all 10 Iowa contests with Tarpinian next in tackles with just 7.5. Johnson has 6, while Nielsen 3.5.
LB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Iowa versus OSU LBs
The B+ grade may be a little harsh, but behind the starters there is little to get excited about at the moment. While Angerer and Hunter are a solid 1-2 punch, they are still some 30 tackles and 2 picks behind Ohio State's top LBs Brian Rolle and Ross Homan. Like it was in the D-Line analysis, the Buckeyes LB corps has an advantage in depth, though as was true with Iowa, Ohio State's reserves constitute a significant drop in production. The Buckeye corps has the luxury of a superior D-Line, but even that being true, the slight edge goes to Ohio State here.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #19 Amari Spievey (6-0, 190, Jr.)
SS #9 Tyler Sash (6-1, 210, So.)
FS #20 Joe Conklin (5-11, 195, Sr.)
LCB #28 Shaun Prater (5-11, 175, So.)
Spievey was a JUCO All American two years ago and is a solid, ball hawking, corner for the Hawkeyes. While coverage is his specialty, he's also effective in run support and can be counted on to make the tackle in space, though he doesn't get much action behind the LOS. He is second among all secondary player with 41.5 tackles to go along with 2 picks.
Prater cut his teeth in backup duty last year as a true freshman and has a good knowledge of the game for a second year player. He has 26 tackles and 2 picks thus far in 2009. Conklin has been starting in place of Brett Greenwood (6-0, 200, So.), who suffered a head injury a few weeks back. Assuming Greenwood is healthy enough to go, he'll be the starting free safety this Saturday. Greenwood has 37 tackles with 3 picks, while Conklin has 9.5 tackles and a pick in his place. Strong safety is manned by Tyler Sash, the statistical leader of the secondary. Sash can bring the wood, but is probably at his best when the ball is in the air. After recording 5 picks last season, he has 6 this year to go along with his secondary leading 41.5 tackles, 5.5 of which are for loss.
Back-ups include corners: #10 William Lowe (5-10, 170, So.), and #2 Greg Castillo (5-11, 180, r-Fr.), and safeties: #31 David Cato (5-11, 205, So.), and #40 Jack Swanson (5-11, 195, r-Fr.). Lowe entered the season in a battle with Prater and will more than likely see action on Saturday, as he has in each of Iowa's preceding games. He has 10 tackles in 2009. Swanson has also seen time in every game this season and has recoded 4.5 tackles, while Cato has 3.5 tackles, 1 for loss, in 9 contests. Castillo has 2 tackles in 3 games.
DB Rating: B+/A-
Head-to-Head: Iowa versus OSU DBs
The Iowa secondary has done a better job than Ohio State's at gaining interceptions, with Sash's total (6) being only 2 less than all of Ohio State's defensive back's total (8). When they're "on" the Iowa Secondary is the strength of the defense and, inasmuch as there are issues with the pass rush, create much of the havoc on their own. The Buckeye secondary give up less yards and is more active behind the line of scrimmage as well. The Buckeyes have an advantage in reserve players, though the Hawkeyes seem more willing to rotate players in to the secondary than they do up front. Both secondaries might be licking their chops this week, assuming Iowa QB Ricky Stanzi is unable to go (which is the early indication). When pressed into action against Northwestern, redshirt Freshman James Vandenberg struggled, while Terrelle Pryor has also had his issues throwing the football this season. Pryor has been playing much better, however, since a loss to Purdue, while Iowa fans have to be concerned about what Vanderberg will be able to accomplish, especially if the line is able to get the kind of pressure they've been able to get all season long. Either team could make an argument that their secondary is the better unit, so this one's going to be a push.
Edge: Even
Overall Defensive Analysis
The Iowa defense is fundamentally sound even though they don't force the action most the time. The scheme they play is designed to let plays come to them, and they've done a good job creating turnovers under those circumstances. In contrast, the Buckeyes are much more inclined to dictate the action and rely on superior athleticism to do so. The Hawkeye offense is a tad more likely to put the ball on the ground or to throw the errant pass (21 total turnovers) and the Buckeyes will certainly look to create some miscues this Saturday. The Hawkeyes, again, are more passive in that regard, but will be ready to snatch a bad throw out of the air or pounce on a fumble if Ohio State gets sloppy. While the Hawkeyes don't give up a ton of points they aren't nearly as likely to shut an opponent out like Ohio State has done three times this season. The Iowa defense isn't flashy, but it's certainly good enough to make Ohio State work for it's points.
Overall Defensive Rating: B+
2009 Iowa Hawkeyes Special Teams Preview Stats.......|Score..|Tot.Yds..|Rush..|Pass..|INT.| Fum.|Sack.|1stD..|3rd D..|.PCT..|Red Zone.|.PCT.|RZ TDs.|PCT.|TOF..|
Iowa........|.15.9..|..291.7..|118.7.|173.0.|.19.|..7..|.21..|.153..|55-150.|.37%..|.21-24...|.88%.|.12-24.|50%.|28:25|
Ohio State..|.11.2..|..254.1..|.85.4.|168.7.|.16.|..9..|.27..|.145..|47-149.|.32%..|.13-16...|.81%.|.10-16.|64%.|29:53|
* TOF = Time on Field (Opponent's T.O.P)
While Ohio State enjoys statistical advantages in virtually every category above, Iowa's defense is still quite solid overall. Coming into the 2009 season the chief concern on this side of the ball was up front, as the Hawkeyes lost both interior linemen (Mitch King and Matt Kroul). Bearing out that concern, the Hawkeyes give up nearly 120 a game on the ground. That said, the Hawkeyes line has also been decent at getting in to opposing backfields and can force a QB to make some errant throws. A lot of those bad throws end up in the hands of Iowa personnel. While the Hawkeyes have faced 8 more Red Zone opportunities than the Buckeyes, they have done a good job at limiting those chances to field goals instead of touchdowns. The Buckeyes, meanwhile, let few opponents even get to the 20, but when they do they are more likely to score a TD (10), rather than kick the three (3). For the curious, Iowa requires teams to run 4.08 plays per point (28.6 per 7 points) while the Buckeyes require 5.75 plays of their opponents per point (40.3 per 7). Iowa also yields a point every 18.4 yards (128.4 per 7 points) while the Buckeyes make their opponents go 22.7 yards per point (159.0 per 7).
Defensive Line
RE #91 Broderick Binns (6-2, 255, So.)
DT #46 Christian Ballard (6-5, 285, Jr.)
DT #95 Karl Klug (6-4, 258, Jr.)
LE #94 Adrian Clayborn (6-3, 282, Jr.)
As mentioned above, Iowa has had to replace their interior line and have done so with a couple of juniors. Of those two, King has been the more impressive thus far. Small for an interior player, he is quick and active which has helped him acquire 31.5 tackles, 10 for loss with 3 sacks and 1 fumble recovery. Ballard, meanwhile, moves to the interior where he is probably better suited than he was playing outside. He has good explosiveness for a man his size, but needs to establish more consistency in making plays behind the LOS. In 2009 he has 25.5 tackles, 4.5 for loss with 3 sacks. Among all linemen, Binns has been the most productive in making stops and may just be the most talented of the bunch. He leads the line with 35 stops, 7 for loss with 4.5 sacks and a fumble recovery. If Binns is not the most talented, Clayborn is. While better against the run historically, Clayborn has stepped up his game this season. He leads the team with 13.5 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks. Altogether he's made 31 tackles and also has recovered a fumble.
Ends: #64 Cody Hundertmark (6-4, 280, So.), and #58 Lebron Daniel (6-2, 250, So.), and tackles: #93 Mike Daniels (6-1, 267, So.) and #61 Travis Meade (6-0, 285, Sr.) provide depth on the line. However, after the starting four, the production drops off quite significantly. Mike Daniels has seen action in each of the Hawkeyes' 10 games but only has 4 tackles to show for it, tops among the reserves. He also has recorded 1.5 sacks, the most for any non-starting lineman. Meade has 1 tackle in 9 games while Daniel has 1 in 10. Hundertmark has yet to record a tackle.
OL Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Iowa versus OSU DL
While the Buckeyes starting front four is the better of the two units, the biggest advantage the Ohio State line enjoys over the Iowa line is productive depth. After the Iowa front four, the reserves have a total of 6 tackles while Ohio State reserves have 22 from Nathan Williams alone. The Buckeyes have been better at getting on the other side of the LOS and limiting opposing running games while also coming up with the occasional interception (Wilson, Denlinger). Iowa's line isn't bad, but it's not in the same tier as Ohio State's.
Edge: Ohio State
Linebackers
SLB #49 A.J. Edds (6-4, 244, Sr.)
MLB #43 Pat Angerer (6-1, 235, Sr.)
WLB #42 Jeremiha Hunter (6-2, 235, Jr.)
Iowa has a decent tradition of hard hitting, fundamentally sound linebackers with next level talent and this season the corps is lead by Pat Angerer. A solid and instinctive tackler, Angerer doesn't get beat at the point of attack by too many running backs and is a very capable pass defender as well. He leads the Hawkeyes with 70.5 tackles this season. Of those stops 4 have come for loss with 1 sack. He also has a 38 yard INT return to his credit. Edds is a consistent force on the outside, though he's seen his tackles numbers decline in each of the last two seasons after recording 80 as a sophomore. However, as he's a former tight end he has very good hands and leads the LBs with 3 picks this season to go along with 33 tackles, 4.5 for loss with half a sack. On the weak side, Hunter has begun to live up to the potential Iowa saw when he was a recruit after a successful 2008 campaign. He's quick and big, but could improve in coverage and could also stand to improve his pass rushing abilities. Nonetheless, he is second on the team with 54 tackles, 4 for loss with a sack and 1 INT.
Reserve LBs include: #45 Tyler Nielsen (6-4, 232, So.), #33 Jeff Tarpinian (6-3, 233, Jr.), #57 Bruce Davis (6-0, 232, So.) and #48 Troy Johnson (6-2, 235, Jr.). Like the D-Line, after the top 3 LBs, the production of the reserves falls straight through the floor. Davis, a Cleveland Glenville product has been the most productive with 10.5 tackles in 10 games, but he is not listed on the two deep. Likewise, each of Nielsen, Tarpinian and Johnson have seen action in all 10 Iowa contests with Tarpinian next in tackles with just 7.5. Johnson has 6, while Nielsen 3.5.
LB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Iowa versus OSU LBs
The B+ grade may be a little harsh, but behind the starters there is little to get excited about at the moment. While Angerer and Hunter are a solid 1-2 punch, they are still some 30 tackles and 2 picks behind Ohio State's top LBs Brian Rolle and Ross Homan. Like it was in the D-Line analysis, the Buckeyes LB corps has an advantage in depth, though as was true with Iowa, Ohio State's reserves constitute a significant drop in production. The Buckeye corps has the luxury of a superior D-Line, but even that being true, the slight edge goes to Ohio State here.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #19 Amari Spievey (6-0, 190, Jr.)
SS #9 Tyler Sash (6-1, 210, So.)
FS #20 Joe Conklin (5-11, 195, Sr.)
LCB #28 Shaun Prater (5-11, 175, So.)
Spievey was a JUCO All American two years ago and is a solid, ball hawking, corner for the Hawkeyes. While coverage is his specialty, he's also effective in run support and can be counted on to make the tackle in space, though he doesn't get much action behind the LOS. He is second among all secondary player with 41.5 tackles to go along with 2 picks.
Prater cut his teeth in backup duty last year as a true freshman and has a good knowledge of the game for a second year player. He has 26 tackles and 2 picks thus far in 2009. Conklin has been starting in place of Brett Greenwood (6-0, 200, So.), who suffered a head injury a few weeks back. Assuming Greenwood is healthy enough to go, he'll be the starting free safety this Saturday. Greenwood has 37 tackles with 3 picks, while Conklin has 9.5 tackles and a pick in his place. Strong safety is manned by Tyler Sash, the statistical leader of the secondary. Sash can bring the wood, but is probably at his best when the ball is in the air. After recording 5 picks last season, he has 6 this year to go along with his secondary leading 41.5 tackles, 5.5 of which are for loss.
Back-ups include corners: #10 William Lowe (5-10, 170, So.), and #2 Greg Castillo (5-11, 180, r-Fr.), and safeties: #31 David Cato (5-11, 205, So.), and #40 Jack Swanson (5-11, 195, r-Fr.). Lowe entered the season in a battle with Prater and will more than likely see action on Saturday, as he has in each of Iowa's preceding games. He has 10 tackles in 2009. Swanson has also seen time in every game this season and has recoded 4.5 tackles, while Cato has 3.5 tackles, 1 for loss, in 9 contests. Castillo has 2 tackles in 3 games.
DB Rating: B+/A-
Head-to-Head: Iowa versus OSU DBs
The Iowa secondary has done a better job than Ohio State's at gaining interceptions, with Sash's total (6) being only 2 less than all of Ohio State's defensive back's total (8). When they're "on" the Iowa Secondary is the strength of the defense and, inasmuch as there are issues with the pass rush, create much of the havoc on their own. The Buckeye secondary give up less yards and is more active behind the line of scrimmage as well. The Buckeyes have an advantage in reserve players, though the Hawkeyes seem more willing to rotate players in to the secondary than they do up front. Both secondaries might be licking their chops this week, assuming Iowa QB Ricky Stanzi is unable to go (which is the early indication). When pressed into action against Northwestern, redshirt Freshman James Vandenberg struggled, while Terrelle Pryor has also had his issues throwing the football this season. Pryor has been playing much better, however, since a loss to Purdue, while Iowa fans have to be concerned about what Vanderberg will be able to accomplish, especially if the line is able to get the kind of pressure they've been able to get all season long. Either team could make an argument that their secondary is the better unit, so this one's going to be a push.
Edge: Even
Overall Defensive Analysis
The Iowa defense is fundamentally sound even though they don't force the action most the time. The scheme they play is designed to let plays come to them, and they've done a good job creating turnovers under those circumstances. In contrast, the Buckeyes are much more inclined to dictate the action and rely on superior athleticism to do so. The Hawkeye offense is a tad more likely to put the ball on the ground or to throw the errant pass (21 total turnovers) and the Buckeyes will certainly look to create some miscues this Saturday. The Hawkeyes, again, are more passive in that regard, but will be ready to snatch a bad throw out of the air or pounce on a fumble if Ohio State gets sloppy. While the Hawkeyes don't give up a ton of points they aren't nearly as likely to shut an opponent out like Ohio State has done three times this season. The Iowa defense isn't flashy, but it's certainly good enough to make Ohio State work for it's points.
Overall Defensive Rating: B+
Returning Starters: 2
Iowa 2009 Statistics
Kicking: #71 in the Nation, Daniel Murray 26 of 26 PATs, 15 of 21 FGs
Punting: #19 in the Nation, 45 for 1901 yds, 42.24 avg, 38.36 avg net
Punt returns: #79 in the Nation, 26 for 202 yds, 1 TD, 7.77 avg
Kickoff returns: #84 in the Nation, 34 for 701 yds, 20.62 avg
Punt Return Defense: #12 in the Nation, 17 for 75 yds, 4.41 avg
Kickoff Return Defense: #10 in the Nation, 47 for 880 yds, 18.72 avg, 4 touchbacks
Ohio State 2009 Statistics
Kicking: #51 in the Nation Aaron Pettrey (injured, will not play) 28 of 29 PATs, 13 of 19 FGs
Devin Barclay 6-6 PATs 2-4 FGs
Punting: #87 in the Nation, 41 for 1543 yds, 37.63 avg
Punt Returns: #67 in the Nation, 35 for 301 yds, 8.6 avg
Kickoff Returns: #26 in the Nation, 28 for 676 yds, 1 TD, 24.14 avg
Punt Return Defense: #7 in the Nation, 4 for 15, 3.75 avg
Kickoff Return Defense: #12 in the Nation, 55 for 1034 yds, 18.8 avg, 3 touchbacks
The Iowa Hawkeyes bring a solid group of Special Teams units in the Horseshoe this weekend in a game that will probably determine the Big 10's representative to the Granddaddy of them All, the Rose Bowl.
Special Teams
Iowa
P #5 Ryan Donahue (6-3, 180, Jr., St. Rita HS, Evergreen Park, IL)
PK #1 Daniel Murray (5-10, 185, Jr., Regina HS, Iowa City, IA)
PR #9 Tyler Sash (6-1, 210, So., Oskaloosa HS, Oskaloosa, IA)
PR #6 Keenan Davis (6-3, 200, Fr., Washington HS, Cedar Rapids, IA)
KR #15 Derrell Johnson-Koulianos (6-1, 200, Jr., Cardinal Mooney HS, Campbell, OH)
KR #6 Keenan Davis (6-3, 200, Fr., Washington HS, Cedar Rapids, IA)
LS #65 Andrew Schulze (6-5, 255, Jr., Downers Grove South HS, Woodridge, IL)
Hldr #5 Ryan Donahue (6-3, 180, Jr., St. Rita HS, Evergreen Park, IL)
Ohio State
P #48 Jon Thoma (6-2, 201, Sr., St. Thomas Aquinas HS, Louisville, OH)
PK #12 Devin Barclay (5-11, 195, Jr., McDonough HS, Annapolis, MD)
PR #82 Ray Small (5-11, 180, Sr., Glenville HS, Cleveland, OH)
PR #12 Dane Sanzenbacher (5-11, 175, Jr., Central Catholic HS, Toledo, OH)
PR #8 DeVier Posey (6-3, 205, So., LaSalle HS, Cincinnati, OH)
KR #7 Lamaar Thomas (5-11, 186, So., Friendly HS, Ft. Washington, MD)
KR #82 Ray Small (5-11, 180, Sr., Glenville HS, Cleveland, OH)
KR #3 Brandon Saine (6-1, 217, Jr., Piqua HS, Piqua, OH)
LS #96 Jake McQuaide (6-2, 219, Jr., Elder HS, Cincinnati, OH)
Hldr #48 Jon Thoma (6-2, 201, Sr., St. Thomas Aquinas HS, Louisville, OH)
The Iowa punt and kickoff return defenses are among the strongest units in the country, ranking 10th and 12th respectively. Their punt and kickoff return offenses have had less success (79th and 84th respectively) but still have played solidly. While the loss of their starting QB will definitely hurt the Hawkeyes, if their defense can keep it close the special teams could make a game of it.
ST Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Donahue and Iowa's Punt Defense vs Small/Sanzenbacher/Posey
Small finally had a highly anticipated big return game vs Penn State, setting up 2 Buckeye TDs with excellent returns. The Hawkeyes are stingy on punt return defense, only allowing 4.41 yds per return, 12th in the Nation. This will be an interesting battle worth watching.
Edge: Iowa
Head-to-Head: Murray and Iowa's Kickoff Defense vs Saine/Thomas/Small
The Bucks have continued to have decent, if not game-breaking, returns of kickoffs. Their 24.14 yds per return is good for #26 in the Nation. Iowa counterpunches well, though. The Hawkeyes are outstanding in defending the kickoff return giving up an avg of only 18.8 yds per return (with 3 touchbacks) good for #12 in the Nation. This will be a great matchup as well. Will the Buckeyes start with decent field position or not?
Edge: Even
Head-to-Head: Thoma and Ohio State's Punt Defense vs Sash/Davis
Iowa is not near as good statistically on special team offense as they are on defense. The Hawkeye punt return team gains an average of only 7.77 yds, only 79th in the Nation. Ohio State continues to be one of the top punt return defenses in the nation. They have only allow 4 returns for 15 yards ALL YEAR. It has certainly made a difference in the battle for field position so far this year.
Edge: Ohio State
Head-to-Head: Barclay and Ohio State's Kickoff Defense vs Johnson/Davis
As with their punt return teams, Iowa is lacking in production from their kickoff unit. They only are averaging 20.62 yds per return, only 84th in the Nation. Ohio State's kickoff return defense has excelled all year giving up a paltry 18.8 yds per return, good for 12th in the Nation with 3 touchbacks. Barclay is subbing for an injured Pettrey, but looked pretty good vs Penn State last week, booming deep kicks and hitting on all his FGs and PATs.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Special Teams Analysis
Iowa is among the best FBS teams in defense against the punt and kickoff returns. Their return teams have not experienced the same level of success. Ohio State has been outstanding all year long in every stage of special teams play save for punt returns (and that showed definite signs of life last week). With a freshman QB starting his first game in a hostile environment and facing a ferocious defense that ate Penn State for lunch last week, Iowa's special teams must have big plays to help him out. Unfortunately for the Hawkeyes, this will probably not happen.
Overall Special Teams Rating: B (defense A, offense D)
Predictions Kicking: #71 in the Nation, Daniel Murray 26 of 26 PATs, 15 of 21 FGs
Punting: #19 in the Nation, 45 for 1901 yds, 42.24 avg, 38.36 avg net
Punt returns: #79 in the Nation, 26 for 202 yds, 1 TD, 7.77 avg
Kickoff returns: #84 in the Nation, 34 for 701 yds, 20.62 avg
Punt Return Defense: #12 in the Nation, 17 for 75 yds, 4.41 avg
Kickoff Return Defense: #10 in the Nation, 47 for 880 yds, 18.72 avg, 4 touchbacks
Ohio State 2009 Statistics
Kicking: #51 in the Nation Aaron Pettrey (injured, will not play) 28 of 29 PATs, 13 of 19 FGs
Devin Barclay 6-6 PATs 2-4 FGs
Punting: #87 in the Nation, 41 for 1543 yds, 37.63 avg
Punt Returns: #67 in the Nation, 35 for 301 yds, 8.6 avg
Kickoff Returns: #26 in the Nation, 28 for 676 yds, 1 TD, 24.14 avg
Punt Return Defense: #7 in the Nation, 4 for 15, 3.75 avg
Kickoff Return Defense: #12 in the Nation, 55 for 1034 yds, 18.8 avg, 3 touchbacks
The Iowa Hawkeyes bring a solid group of Special Teams units in the Horseshoe this weekend in a game that will probably determine the Big 10's representative to the Granddaddy of them All, the Rose Bowl.
Special Teams
Iowa
P #5 Ryan Donahue (6-3, 180, Jr., St. Rita HS, Evergreen Park, IL)
PK #1 Daniel Murray (5-10, 185, Jr., Regina HS, Iowa City, IA)
PR #9 Tyler Sash (6-1, 210, So., Oskaloosa HS, Oskaloosa, IA)
PR #6 Keenan Davis (6-3, 200, Fr., Washington HS, Cedar Rapids, IA)
KR #15 Derrell Johnson-Koulianos (6-1, 200, Jr., Cardinal Mooney HS, Campbell, OH)
KR #6 Keenan Davis (6-3, 200, Fr., Washington HS, Cedar Rapids, IA)
LS #65 Andrew Schulze (6-5, 255, Jr., Downers Grove South HS, Woodridge, IL)
Hldr #5 Ryan Donahue (6-3, 180, Jr., St. Rita HS, Evergreen Park, IL)
Ohio State
P #48 Jon Thoma (6-2, 201, Sr., St. Thomas Aquinas HS, Louisville, OH)
PK #12 Devin Barclay (5-11, 195, Jr., McDonough HS, Annapolis, MD)
PR #82 Ray Small (5-11, 180, Sr., Glenville HS, Cleveland, OH)
PR #12 Dane Sanzenbacher (5-11, 175, Jr., Central Catholic HS, Toledo, OH)
PR #8 DeVier Posey (6-3, 205, So., LaSalle HS, Cincinnati, OH)
KR #7 Lamaar Thomas (5-11, 186, So., Friendly HS, Ft. Washington, MD)
KR #82 Ray Small (5-11, 180, Sr., Glenville HS, Cleveland, OH)
KR #3 Brandon Saine (6-1, 217, Jr., Piqua HS, Piqua, OH)
LS #96 Jake McQuaide (6-2, 219, Jr., Elder HS, Cincinnati, OH)
Hldr #48 Jon Thoma (6-2, 201, Sr., St. Thomas Aquinas HS, Louisville, OH)
The Iowa punt and kickoff return defenses are among the strongest units in the country, ranking 10th and 12th respectively. Their punt and kickoff return offenses have had less success (79th and 84th respectively) but still have played solidly. While the loss of their starting QB will definitely hurt the Hawkeyes, if their defense can keep it close the special teams could make a game of it.
ST Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Donahue and Iowa's Punt Defense vs Small/Sanzenbacher/Posey
Small finally had a highly anticipated big return game vs Penn State, setting up 2 Buckeye TDs with excellent returns. The Hawkeyes are stingy on punt return defense, only allowing 4.41 yds per return, 12th in the Nation. This will be an interesting battle worth watching.
Edge: Iowa
Head-to-Head: Murray and Iowa's Kickoff Defense vs Saine/Thomas/Small
The Bucks have continued to have decent, if not game-breaking, returns of kickoffs. Their 24.14 yds per return is good for #26 in the Nation. Iowa counterpunches well, though. The Hawkeyes are outstanding in defending the kickoff return giving up an avg of only 18.8 yds per return (with 3 touchbacks) good for #12 in the Nation. This will be a great matchup as well. Will the Buckeyes start with decent field position or not?
Edge: Even
Head-to-Head: Thoma and Ohio State's Punt Defense vs Sash/Davis
Iowa is not near as good statistically on special team offense as they are on defense. The Hawkeye punt return team gains an average of only 7.77 yds, only 79th in the Nation. Ohio State continues to be one of the top punt return defenses in the nation. They have only allow 4 returns for 15 yards ALL YEAR. It has certainly made a difference in the battle for field position so far this year.
Edge: Ohio State
Head-to-Head: Barclay and Ohio State's Kickoff Defense vs Johnson/Davis
As with their punt return teams, Iowa is lacking in production from their kickoff unit. They only are averaging 20.62 yds per return, only 84th in the Nation. Ohio State's kickoff return defense has excelled all year giving up a paltry 18.8 yds per return, good for 12th in the Nation with 3 touchbacks. Barclay is subbing for an injured Pettrey, but looked pretty good vs Penn State last week, booming deep kicks and hitting on all his FGs and PATs.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Special Teams Analysis
Iowa is among the best FBS teams in defense against the punt and kickoff returns. Their return teams have not experienced the same level of success. Ohio State has been outstanding all year long in every stage of special teams play save for punt returns (and that showed definite signs of life last week). With a freshman QB starting his first game in a hostile environment and facing a ferocious defense that ate Penn State for lunch last week, Iowa's special teams must have big plays to help him out. Unfortunately for the Hawkeyes, this will probably not happen.
Overall Special Teams Rating: B (defense A, offense D)
BB73's prediction: 23-6, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 34-7, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 27-6, Ohio State
Bucky Katt's prediction: 20-6, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: ??-??, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 31-17. Ohio State
JCOSU86's prediction: 31-3, Ohio State
Low score wins the year long battle of prediction supremacy! (Difference of actual scores versus predicted scores. 10 point penalty for picking the losing team.)
Previous Game's Results (tOSU 24, Penn State 7)
(149) BB73's prediction: 17-13, Ohio State (13 + 136 last week = 149)
(158) Bucky Katt's prediction: 13-10, Ohio State (14 + 144 last week = 158)
(176) Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 24-13, Ohio State (6 + 170 last week = 176)
(192) Bucklion's prediction: 17-14, Ohio State (14 + 178 last week = 192)
(191) JCOSU86's prediction: 27-14, Ohio State (10 + 181 last week = 191)
(207) jwinslow's prediction: 13-10, Ohio State (14 + 193 last week = 207)
(237) DaddyBigBucks's prediction: xx-xx, Ohio State (14 + 223 last week = 237)
Adjusted scores for weeks missed. Participant must take the highest score from the week they missed.
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 34-7, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 27-6, Ohio State
Bucky Katt's prediction: 20-6, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: ??-??, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 31-17. Ohio State
JCOSU86's prediction: 31-3, Ohio State
Low score wins the year long battle of prediction supremacy! (Difference of actual scores versus predicted scores. 10 point penalty for picking the losing team.)
Previous Game's Results (tOSU 24, Penn State 7)
(149) BB73's prediction: 17-13, Ohio State (13 + 136 last week = 149)
(158) Bucky Katt's prediction: 13-10, Ohio State (14 + 144 last week = 158)
(176) Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 24-13, Ohio State (6 + 170 last week = 176)
(192) Bucklion's prediction: 17-14, Ohio State (14 + 178 last week = 192)
(191) JCOSU86's prediction: 27-14, Ohio State (10 + 181 last week = 191)
(207) jwinslow's prediction: 13-10, Ohio State (14 + 193 last week = 207)
(237) DaddyBigBucks's prediction: xx-xx, Ohio State (14 + 223 last week = 237)
Adjusted scores for weeks missed. Participant must take the highest score from the week they missed.
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