then it sounds like they will got with four (or five?) down lineman and two linebackers. I mean, just common sense to minimize your weaknesses and maximize your strengths.
The depth chart for the game has been posted. None of the three starting linebackers are listed.
247sports.com
I am hoping we go into the OSU game having not allowed a TD. For sure not a rushing TD, (can't recall what week we were in last year when we allowed one. But yeah, we have a shot at not allowing a TD going into the shoe. (Then we have to perform well at the shoe as well, but I don't think it is realistic to think this years streak goes past that game.)
I can't disagree with you. I thought the Hawks would be favored around -5.5. Still, I don't blame the sports books waiting to see if the Iowa offense simply outmanned Illinois State or if it is truly improved. Right now I would take Iowa to cover. You never know about this game, though. The last time I guaranteed a Iowa win was in 2005. I ate a lot of crow that week.
Yep. They said he will be back later this season though.
Agreed. That said, the idea of a "much improved offense" has a ways to go before being validated. One half against a depleted FCS team isn't enough to pronounce a turnaround just yet. We'll know a lot more after we see the first half on Saturday.
I was going by the Dochterman tweet. “He should return later this season.”
Yeah, every time I catch myself thinking this game is heavily in our favor, I remember 2005. That game's scar might never fully heal. Worst thing is I was captive at that game and couldn't bail.
I think the reasons for confidence have more to do with how certain players carried themselves, and things we saw with the scheme, than the actual stats/result.
Rose WAS a fine backer, and that game was hella tight.
I don't follow... you're saying the opponent needing to scramble their scheme and identity because of massive personnel losses to a position group equates to (checks notes) a challenge for Lester? I think it translates into "Hawks are coming at ya, good luck stopping these RBs and TEs with no LB on your team."
"According to Campbell, Bacon had surgery on a "lower leg injury" on Sunday. While he will be out for significant time, Campbell says he has the possibility to return later this season."
Absolutely correct and I concur. I'm cautiously optimistic though for the first time in what feels like a very, very, very long time. Probably setting myself up for failure, like a lot us I'm sure. Alas, it's the gift and the curse that is Iowa football.
