Iowa is always steady as she goes. Always around 6-8 wins, with a few seasons that go above and less that go below. I am not suggesting they are going under 7 season wins this year, but I have already bet against them twice and here are a few reasons why:
Experience and Depth:
Iowa loses all three senior starting linebackers, including Jewell, who was drafted. They always lose AA corner to the draft, while also losing the other corner, as Manny Rugumba is transferring. To add to that, Snyder, their starting senior safety has also transferred. Snyder was in a battle for the starting safety spot so he may not have been the starter, but a lot of experience and depth they are losing at the LB and secondary.
From the offensive side, They have lost their starting center, who went in the second round of the draft, as well as their top two running backs, which includes Akrum Wadley. Kid was a game changer at Iowa. Iowa over the years are conservative on offense. Great O-lines, with good running games. Nothing will be different, except the same unknowns as far as player productivity at the running back position.
Also of note, the chatter around the state is Iowa hasn't had the dominating off lines in the past couple years as in the past. Perhaps the standard is so high, they haven't been meeting it, but on top of Daniels leaving, their starting LT is out for the N. Ill game due to OWI. They switched the tackles from last year, so perhaps the coaching staff realized they were under performing as well.
WR has always been an issue for the Hawkeyes and nobody stands out as big time play makers, but their TE Fant is going to play a Gronk-like role this year. If teams shut him down, could be some trouble moving the ball for the Hawks.
Also of note, they have Stanley at QB, whom you would assume keep improving and be better this year. He sometimes is a slow decision maker, with a tendency to over throw the deep ball but overall had a good season last year. Hope he stays healthy because they don’t have much behind him. 1 true and 1 redshirt freshman.
On the positive side: Iowa’s D line on paper is one of the best in the nation. They are talented and all returning. It will be interesting to watch how good they are and how much that helps cover up an inexperienced group of LB and secondary.
Don’t expect a lot of blowouts and already think N. Ill and ISU are the correct sides in their first two games, but no bet on season win total. Will write up and track picks on another post.
They always seem to have one big upset during the season, but always 1-2 loses that make you scratch your head. Last year, they dominated Ohio State, and nearly beat Penn St, but looked horrible in home loss to Purdue and was in a dogfight against Minnesota.
Summary: Can they overcome everyone they lost and still perform as we expect Iowa to? I think this is a team that will go to a bowl, but think replacing 6 starters on D and their best off player might give them an extra loss or two that we don't see coming. I think they rebound next year, but 7-8 wins is their ceiling.
Hope everyone finds this helpful!