Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Large Expectations for Iowa Hawkeyes

If the Iowa Hawkeyes can live up to predictions in 2010, they will garner a stellar season.

Many so called experts think the Hawkeyes will finish in the top 10. It will be interesting to see how Iowa performs under the expectations. Will they do just fine or lay an egg?

Iowa enjoys the underdog role. Coach Kirk Ferentz is a master at playing the role. But now Iowa has a mark on its chest.

The talent is definitely there. Iowa returns 14 starters including eight on defense. It's defense can play with anyone in the country.

All eyes are on the offense. Quarterback Rick Stanzi had an up-and-down year last season. He was good when necessary. The breaks generally went Iowa's way and it won some close games. This season, Iowa hopes for improved offensive play so it doesn't depend on those breaks.

But the biggest weapon is Ferentz. The guy can coach. He doesn't get much national attention, but football people know him. He enjoys being an unassuming guy. Simply, he just wins. His organizational skills and winning ways make him quite attractive to NFL teams.

So with Ferentz on the sidelines and returning talent, look for the Hawkeyes to resemble a prince rather than a chicken.

What are your predictions for Iowa this season?

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