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5 things to watch
Matt McGowan Pregame Editor matt.mcgowan@dailyiowan.com
1. Offense without Kirk Ferentz
For the first time in his 26 years at the helm in Iowa City, Kirk Ferentz will not be roaming the sidelines, and that absence coincides with the maiden voyage of a new offense. Talk about the stars aligning. With Ferentz watching the Hawkeyes’ season opener from home – although I believe he’ll be listening on the radio –fans can finally see what an offense looks like without Ferentz there to manage it. It remains to be seen how much leash Seth Wallace will dispense to offensive coordinator Tim Lester, but it will be interesting to see how the Hawkeyes approach key game situations. Will they go for it on fourth-and-3? Do they pass on first-and-10? Stay tuned. We might only see this once.
2. Running back reps
After talking with players and coaches this preseason, Kamari Moulton was a regular discussion point, and the Week 1 depth chart proves why. Sitting above upperclassmen Leshon Williams and Kaleb Johnson, Moulton is the starting running back after carrying the ball only 27 times last season. Part of this promotion was due to Williams’ injury that kept him out most of fall camp, but nevertheless, Ferentz lauded Moulton for his improved confidence and field vision.
Lester also highlighted Moulton for his execution of a certain run play critical to the offense. Fans will find out what this play is on Saturday, as well as see just how big a role Moulton plays on a team that features plenty of talent in the backfield.
3. Wide receivers corps
Although the group will not have its coach Jon Budmayr on Saturday, Hawkeye receivers have the opportunity to
showcase themselves, in particular Jacob Gill and Reece Vander Zee. Gill, who transferred from Northwestern this offseason, was routinely applauded by his teammates for his perimeter blocking and occupies one of the three starting wideout spots.
“I just try to be a complete receiver in any way that I can,” Gill said. “I help the team win, that’s my main goal.”
Meanwhile, Zee is a first-year backing up Jarriett Buie on the depth chart. Hailing from Rock Rapids, Iowa, the 6-foot-4 wideout dealt with some injuries over the offseason but participated for most of fall camp.
“He’s done a really good job. He’s learning quickly,” Ferentz said of Zee. “He’ll be out on the field for sure on Saturday.”
4. Cornerback competition
Yes, you read that right. After all the panic surrounding the Hawkeyes under center, fans shouldn’t ignore the cornerback position, as Iowa has plenty of suitable options, but no definitive answers. Sophomore John Nestor no longer holds the top spot like he did in the preseason, as he now sits behind junior TJ Hall at left corner. On the right side, graduate senior Jermari Harris starts above sophomore Deshaun Lee, who started six games last season.
Ferentz said consistency has been the differentiating factor for the cornerbacks but he added the competition is far from over.
“It’s still really close,” Ferentz said. “I think we have a lot of young guys right now that we’re going to learn a lot more about them.”
5. McNamara improvement
In my opinion, McNamara’s experience and familiarity with Iowa helped him earn the starting nod, but I agree with the choice. Unlike last year, McNamara isn’t dealing with a lingering quad injury. He said on Tuesday he felt better than he ever has.
How he’s grown in the two weeks sincehis rusty open practice on Aug. 10 will be evident on Saturday, and will either quell or spark more squabble on the QB1 debate.
DEPTH CHART
OFFENSE
QB 12 Cade McNamara Sr 1 Brendan Sullivan Jr
RB 28 Kamari Moulton #Fr 4 Leshon Wiliams Sr
FB 88 Hayden Large Sr 31 Eli Miller Jr
WR 21 Kaden Wetjen Sr 6 Seth Anderson Jr
WR 5 Jacob Gill Jr 8 Terrell Washington Jr. #Fr
TE 85 Luke Lachey Sr 87 Addison Ostrenga Jr
LT 78 Mason Richman Sr 71 Jack Dotzler Soph
LG 70 Beau Stephens Jr 65 Logan Jones Sr
C 65 Logan Jones Sr 58 Kade Pieper #Fr
RG 77 Connor Colby Sr 76 Tyler Elsbury Sr
RT 67 Gennings Dunker Jr 56 Nick Dejong Sr
PK 18 Drew Stevens Jr DEFENSE
LE 45 Deontae Craig Sr 48 Max Llewellyn Jr
LT 95 Aaron Graves Jr 57 Will Hubert Soph
RT 94 Yahya Black Sr 55 Jeremiah Pittman Jr
RE 49 Ethan Hurkett Sr 90 Brian Allen Soph
29 Sebastian Castro Sr 37 Kyler Fisher Sr
MLB 34 Jay Higgins Sr 41 Jayden Harrell Jr
WLB 10 Nick Jackson Sr 43 Karson Sharar Jr
CB 2 TJ Hall Jr 7 John Nestor Soph
SS 1 Xavier Nwankpa Jr 4 Koen Entringer Soph
FS 30 Quinn Schulte Sr 6 Zach Lutmer #Fr
CB 27 Jermari Harris Sr 8 Deshaun Lee Soph
P 9 Rhys Dakin Fr
OFFENSE
QB 16 Tommy Rittenhouse Jr 5 Jake Rubley Jr
RB 3 Mason King Sr 32 Wenkers Wright Sr
WR 2 Daniel Sobkowicz Jr 15 Rylan Crawford Soph
WR 1 Xavier Loyd Jr 9 Braden Contreras Sr
WR 13 Eddie Kasper Soph 0 Jalen Carr Sr
TE 85 Javon Charles Sr 89 Mitch Bartol Sr
LT 70 JJ Guedet Sr 61 Brandon Smith Jr
LG 57 Hunter Zambrano Sr 59 Elijah Wroten Jr
C 75 Ryan Gudaitis Jr 60 Boden Turner Jr
RG 68 Landon Woodard Jr 69 Micah Barnhart Jr
RT 67 Jake Pope Sr 78 Ben Wallace #Fr
PK 31 Ian Wagner Jr
DEFENSE
DT 97 Jake Anderson Soph 56 Garret Steffen Sr
NT 98 Jake Siegel Sr 99 Donovan McBride Jr
DE 87 Nick Kessler Jr 8 Steven Curtis Soph
JACK 50 Jalan Gaines Sr 43 Patrick Bauer #Fr
SLB 22 Amir Abdullah Sr 10 Reese Edwards Jr
MLB 46 Tye Niekamp Soph 33 Connor Leyden Jr
WLB 1 Lavoise-Deontae McCoy Sr 53 Darius Walker Sr
CB 7 Mark Cannon Jr. Jr 25 Cam Wilson Jr
SS 3 Keondre Jackson Sr 4 CJ Hodgdon Sr
FS 16 Dillon Gearhart Sr 34 Jack Dwyer Jr
CB 6 Nigel White Sr 26 Teon Parks Soph
P 31 Ian Wagner Jr
(or)
CASH/ LEO
Ferentz
Moulton
Gill
Vander Zee
Never blinded by hype
The junior came to Iowa City as a prized five-star recruit, but his teammates have praised him for his mature demeanor and vocal leadership on the field.
Growing up, Xavier Nwankpa was known for his competitiveness in gym class.
“He always ruled the school when it came to P.E. classes,” his mother, Amy Erickson, recalled.
Despite his competitive nature, Nwankpa was known for his kindness and mature demeanor in the classroom.
“I think every single parent-teacher confer-
Grace Smith | The Daily Iowan
Iowa celebrates defensive back Xavier Nwankpa’s touchdown after an interception during the 2022 TransPerfect Music City Bowl at Nissan Stadium in Nashville on Dec. 31, 2022. The Hawkeyes became the 2022 TransPerfect Music City Bowl champions after defeating the Wildcats, 21-0.
Nwankpa
ence had a positive thing to say about him, every single time,” Erickson said. “I was searching for things for them to be, like, ‘Do you have anything negative for me to say about him?’ He was such a great kid.”
Teachers also praised Nwankpa’s timeliness and eager attitude.
“He was just very punctual,” Erickson said. “ He was always raising his hand, always had to be first in line, first person to have the answer.”
All of these traits transitioned to athletics, where Nwankpa was destined to be a star from a young age.
His father, Frank Nwankpa, was a track standout at Iowa State, while Erickson played several sports in high school and coached softball at Des Moines East High School for seven years.
Xavier played many sports throughout his youth, including football, wrestling, and baseball.
Following Nwankpa’s fourth-grade year, he and his mother moved to Pleasant Hill – an eastern suburb of Des Moines — so Erickson could be closer to her future husband and his children.
Despite the move, Nwankpa continued to flourish academically and athletically, setting the stage for one of the most legendary careers in Iowa high school sports history.
Ram Jam
Nestled on the outskirts of nearby Altoona is Southeast Polk High School, a sparkling building that closely resembles a corporate office building. Just east of the school is the now-vacant football stadium, which was replaced after the 2022 season but still holds memories of Nwankpa’s prowess.
Nwankpa attended high school at Southeast Polk from 2018-22. He starred on the school’s football team and enjoyed a successful career in
as one of its most decorated athletes.
His all-around athleticism quickly caught the eye of head football coach Brad Zelenovich, who hoped Nwankpa could join an up-and-coming core of young players and eventually capture a state championship.
“He was somebody that we had our eyes on when he was a young kid coming up through our youth program and junior high,” Zelenovich said. “He was somebody that had some natural size and ability, and we were definitely aware of him prior to high school.”
Though initially noticed for his speed on offense, Nwankpa quickly began playing on both sides of the ball during his freshman season after some injuries on defense.
“We pulled him up, and he started playing with us as a freshman at corner, “ Zelenovich said. “And then as his career progressed, he was somebody that we felt like we needed to get on the field as much as we could.”
Nwankpa was playing on all three phases of the game – offense, defense, and special teams – by his sophomore season. Despite the workload, his performance didn’t suffer. He collected 51.5 tackles, three interceptions, and 494 all-purpose yards.
“There was no hesitation on his end. He was eager to step into that role,” Zelenovich said.
Nwankpa continued to produce during his junior season, compiling 41 tackles, six interceptions, two touchdowns, and 794 all-purpose yards. His performance carried the Rams all the way to the state championship game, where they were soundly defeated, 42-14, by suburban rival Ankeny.
career came in the season opener against crosstown rival Dowling Catholic. Both teams entered the contest atop the Class 5A rankings and were among the favorites to capture a championship.
In front of a local television audience on WHO-13, Nwankpa quickly stole the show with a receiving touchdown in the second quarter and a sensational interception in the end zone late in the fourth.
But his best highlight was yet to come.
With only seconds remaining in regulation, the Rams and Maroons were deadlocked at seven apiece, and overtime seemed likely. Southeast Polk had the ball on Dowling’s 38-yard line and had enough time for one heave to the end zone before the extra session.
With the Maroon defensive front in his face, quarterback Jaxon Dailey rolled out to his left and lobbed a final prayer to the end zone. Standing near the goal line, Nwankpa fought through the Dowling secondary and made a leaping catch at the horn to clinch an improbable victory.
“I’ve been around a decent amount of time, and football is a team game, but that night, he had an impact in all three phases, which is a pretty special performance,” Zelenovich said. “He was the best player on the field that night.”
Building on the incredible victory, the Rams steamrolled through the regular season with only one loss and once again found themselves in the state championship game.
ever happened.”
“He was somebody that we had our eyes on when he was a young kid coming up through our youth program and junior high.”
Brad Zelenovich Southeast Polk’s head coach
track and field. He also played baseball, but he dropped the sport after his freshman season to focus on football and track.
Nwankpa entered his high school career with a quiet and reserved personality, but he would leave the school
Southeast Polk entered Nwankpa’s senior season with title expectations after coming up short the year before. With the taste of defeat still bitter, Southeast Polk entered Nwankpa’s season with added motivation. Despite missing three games due to injury, Nwankpa posted 26 tackles, four interceptions, and a career-high 845 all-purpose yards.
One of Nwankpa’s memorable moments during his high school
Standing in their way was familiar foe Ankeny, the defending state champs. The Hawks’ roster boasted plenty of talent, such as future Iowa State quarterback JJ Kohl. Ankeny was the only team to defeat Southeast Polk during the season, a 21-7 triumph.
Though the game was expected to be close, the Rams rode their suffocating defense to a 24-7 victory, securing the program’s first state championship.
Nwankpa’s highlight of the contest came late in the fourth quarter.
With Ankeny down by 10 and anxious for points, Kohl lobbed a desperate heave into double coverage. The ball fell directly into Nwankpa’s arms, and he returned the pick deep into Hawk territory to set up another Southeast Polk touchdown.
“This caps off everything,” Nwankpa told The Des Moines Register after the game. “But this is probably the best thing that could’ve
Though Nwankpa had finally captured the elusive title, the next battle was just beginning.
Handling the hype
Following his successful high school career, Nwankpa switched his focus to his college decision, which garnered much attention throughout the state of Iowa. He was listed as a five-star recruit by 247Sports and ranked No. 11 in the nation for the class of 2022.
Nwankpa earned scholarship offers from over 30 schools, but he narrowed his decision down to three schools by the end of 2021 – Iowa, Ohio State, and Notre Dame were the finalists. He set his commitment date for Dec. 8 – his 18th birthday.
“[Zelenovich] instilled in us that, you know, this is part of his job, and this is what he’s supposed to do, and helped us out with a lot of that,” Erickson recalled. “[Nwankpa’s] phone was blowing up, like right at midnight,
and guys were calling left and right. So I think it got a little bit overwhelming, not only just the phone calls, but also the mail.”
In front of a live national television audience on CBS Sports HQ, Nwankpa teased the crowd at Southeast Polk High School by reaching for an Ohio State hat. He nearly put it on his head, but switched to the Iowa cap as his face broke into a proud smile. Jamming the gold cap onto his head, he sent the crowd of around 100 people into a frenzy.
Nwankpa’s announcement became a historic milestone in Iowa football recruiting, as he became the highest-rated player to ever commit to the Hawkeye program. He was also the first five-star Iowa commit since defensive end A.J. Epenesa back in 2017.
Nwankpa told the Iowa coaching staff he would play for the Hawkeyes during Iowa’s official home visit two
Contributed by Amy Erickson
NWANKPA from 5
days before publicly announcing his commitment.
“We were all just sitting around the table, and I remember Coach [Jay] Niemann asked him, ‘What are your plans?’ ” Erickson said. “[Nwankpa] straight up said, ‘I think I’m going to become a Hawkeye.’ After that, there were a lot of hugs and high-fiving.”
Nwankpa cited Iowa’s development of defensive backs under defensive coordinator Phil Parker as one of the main factors of his decision. Not long before the announcement, star Iowa cornerback Riley Moss was named 2021 Big Ten Defensive Back of the Year, becoming the fifth Hawkeye in the last 10 seasons to win the award.
“Five of the last 10 Big Ten DBs of the year coming from Iowa, being my home state, that’s crazy,” Nwankpa told The DI after committing. “Obviously, that doesn’t happen anywhere else. Credit to Coach [Phil] Parker for getting those guys right. That’s just where I wanted to be.”
Erickson also loved the family-oriented style led by Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz.
“As a parent going into a big program like that, you know that your son’s going to be taken care of, and so on that aspect, I feel like he made the best decision,” Erickson said.
Flying high
Rather than finish his final semester of high school, Nwankpa opted to enroll at Iowa in January, a common practice for many recruits looking to gain more experience with their new teams before fall camp.
Historically, first-year athletes are the most inexperienced players on a football team for several reasons. Not only do they have to adjust to the rigorous lifestyle of a Division I athlete, but they also have to find time for their studies.
But Nwankpa was different.
The junior has always been known for having a mature mindset, even all the way back to his early days in a Hawkeye uniform. Nwankpa’s approach to the game has garnered praise from his teammates.
Iowa defensive back Xavier Nwankpa celebrates after completing a tackle during a football game between Iowa and Michigan State at Kinnick Stadium on Sept. 30, 2023. The Hawkeyes defeated the Spartans, 26-16.
accept him with open arms,”
Higgins said.
Higgins also praised Nwankpa’s strong work ethic and willingness to get better in practice.
“He’s one of those guys who acts a little bit older than what he is. He’s just coachable,” Higgins said. “Like for a young guy to be able to look at Coach Parker and get constructive criticism and say, ‘Yes, sir,’ and go fix it. It takes a special individual to do that.”
with the Hawkeyes.
Nwankpa played in all 13 games during his freshman season, primarily on special teams. The safety collected four solo tackles and often helped down Tory Taylor’s booming punts near the goal line.
During a game against Iowa State in Week 2, Nwankpa had a chance for a critical scoop and score, but couldn’t make the play. The Hawkeyes ended up losing that game, 10-7.
Despite the tough defeat fourth-year defensive end Deontae Craig quickly recognized Nwankpa’s willingness to learn from his mistakes.
day came in the second quarter, when a Kentucky pass sailed right into Nwankpa’s arms near midfield for his first career interception. And if that wasn’t enough, Nwankpa followed his blockers all the way to the end zone for his first career touchdown, capping off a dominant debut and sending excitement through the Hawkeye fanbase.
“A week or two before that, we weren’t sure if he was still going to just do special teams,” Erickson said. “And then we found out that he was going to be starting, and then he gets a pick-six. I bawled like a baby.”
Building off of the strong performance in the Music City Bowl, Nwankpa played in all 14 games during his sophomore season in 2023, starting 12 at strong safety. Nwankpa totaled 42 total tackles, one sack, and one interception, which came in the season opener against Utah State.
Nwankpa’s best outing came against Michigan State on Sept. 30. He tallied eight tackles and one pass break up, helping Iowa to a 26-16 victory.
The Hawkeyes finished the season at 10-4, capturing the Big Ten West for the third time in program history despite a dismal offense that ranked dead last in the FBS in terms of yards per game. Iowa lost the Big Ten Championship and its bowl game by a combined score of 61-0.
Nwankpa, though, had established himself as one of the cornerstones of the vaunted Hawkeye defense.
“He’s just absolutely great,” Ferentz said. “I know we don’t get a lot of five stars, but I would never know that with him in the building. He’s a quality young guy, really does a nice job that way, and it’s been fun to watch him improve each and every turn.”
Forging ahead
With the 2024 season rapidly approaching, Nwankpa is thankful for people in his life who have helped him succeed on and off the field.
“The recruitment doesn’t mean anything once you get here,” Nwankpa told reporters in 2022. “You still have to earn your spot, show your stripes. You have to get better every day.”
“He was a pretty mature kid when he got here,” fifth-year defensive back Sebastian Castro said. “I wouldn’t even say he changed a lot for real, he just learned more football.”
Fifth-year linebacker Jay Higgins said Nwankpa was far from pretentious.
“He did a really good job of just putting his head down and working. It was really easy to
Nwankpa battled a thumb injury last season, making it harder for him to give hand signals to his teammates. Despite this, Higgins praised Nwankpa’s vocal leadership on the field.
“I love turning around and listening to Xavier,” Higgins said. “He had to change his signaling, using one hand. It brought us closer together.”
Those qualities don’t surprise Zelenovich. “Initially, he was pretty reserved,” Zelenovich said. “And then as he gained some maturity and felt more comfortable, the leadership qualities came out throughout his career.”
Those qualities led Southeast Polk to a state title and have carried over to Iowa City
“Sometimes in special team meetings, we’re going over formations and sometimes that clip will come up again,” Craig said. “Everybody gets a laugh out of it, but he faces it, and I know if that happens again, he won’t make that mistake again. He’s a gamer.”
After a disappointing 7-5 regular season, Iowa was invited to the Music City Bowl against Kentucky, who beat them the year prior in the Citrus Bowl. With several players opting out of the bowl game, Ferentz decided to give Nwankpa his first career start at strong safety.
The decision ultimately worked well for the Hawkeyes.
Nwankpa had 12 tackles in the game, including seven solos. But the highlight of the
He credits Zelenovich and the Southeast Polk football program for helping him grow as a person, and he plans to return for a game during Iowa’s bye week. The Rams are aiming for their fourth state title in a row after winning two more after Nwankpa’s departure.
“He [Zelenovich] really projected me on the field and off the field and helped me grow up and mature as a man,” Nwankpa said.
Nwankpa also credits his parents for always being there for him and guiding him through life’s biggest challenges. Prior to his first-ever home game at Kinnick Stadium, he gave his mom a hug during the traditional pregame Hawk Walk, a moment she will always cherish.
“I cried when he came out and gave me a hug before entering the stadium,” Erickson said. “It means more to me than I think he will ever know.”
Ayrton Breckenridge | The Daily Iowan
Castro
Higgins
Virtual success, real-life pride
Football players and coaches unite in excitement for EA Sports
Matt McGowan Pregame Editor matt.mcgowan@dailyiowan.com
The last time Kirk Ferentz played a video game was 25 years ago, so he says. He doesn’t remember which game, but he can’t forget the result.
“I got my ass kicked,” he said with a smile. “So I’m not really interested in that. I get a lot of those at other places.”
Such was certainly true back then, as Ferentz’s Hawkeyes collected just four wins during his first two years at the helm, so it’s safe to say the coach had more pressing matters on his mind.
that EA was violating antitrust law for not paying players for their virtual depictions.
As a result, the NCAA and its conferences eliminated their trademark licensing from EA, and the game was shuttered.
When the NCAA opened the door for player compensation through name, image, and likeness in 2021, reviving the game became possible. Now, when players hop on the sticks, they can clearly see the names on the backs of their jerseys.
The then-middle-aged Ferentz couldn’t waste time competing for the “taped-up bowling trophy” his kids used as a prize – he was eyeing to bring a national title back to Iowa City, and he couldn’t do that through a screen. But if the longest-tenured head coach in the FBS decides to pick up an Xbox or PlayStation controller anytime soon, he can hoist the championship trophy without leaving his office.
After a decade-long wait, everyone from the 69-year-old Ferentz to an 11-year-old boy can guide their favorite FBS football team to new heights in EA Sports “College Football 25,” which launched on July 19. The hit video game has taken over the free time of collegiate football players, who’ve utilized it to spark friendly rivalries and recreate their careers. Even if the game garners some critiques and frustration – and breaks a few remotes – the more than 10,000 student-athletes whose likenesses are featured couldn’t be more grateful. Back when the game was released on a near-annual basis from 1993-2014, reallife players were frequently portrayed. College football legends Tim Tebow, Ricky Williams, and Joey Harrington graced past covers and their avatars had identical height, weight, and uniform numbers. However, their names were nowhere to be found. This issue of representation came to a head in 2014, when a federal court ruled
“I definitely think it does make a difference,” Rutgers linebacker Tyreem Powell said. “You get to see yourself with the name you represent, it’s great.”
Purdue head coach Ryan Walters remembers playing the video game back when he was a safety at Colorado from 2004-08, admitting that it took up more spare time than it should’ve.
gave the game a shoutout during his introductory press conference at Big Ten Football Media Days in Indianapolis, loudly proclaiming that Gopher starting right tackle Aireontae Ersery had the 24th-best player rating.
“He’s at 93 overall,” Fleck said of his 6-foot-6, 330-pound lineman. “But when you put him at tight end, he’s a 99, a hack.”
Yet no matter how talented one’s character is, success lies in the hands of whoever holds the controller. Bryant learned this lesson the hard way when he faced off against Northwestern receiver A.J. Henning at Big Ten Media Day. The result – three Bryant interceptions and an easy Wildcat victory.
“Sometimes you were skipping class to play the video game, but don’t tell [my players] that,” he said with a smile. “I have to remind them all the time, ‘It’s not real. You didn’t really throw six touchdowns.’ But it’s fun to partake.”
The idea of watching yourself shine on the field, albeit in a virtual setting, is intoxicating for players like Maryland receiver Tai Felton, who recalled playing the game until the wee hours of the morning when it first came out. His go-to play is a jet-sweep to himself.
Fellow Big Ten wideout Pat Bryant of Illinois also centers the playbook around his avatar, whose abilities exceeded all expectations.
“I’m overpowered [in the game],” he said. “My EA version of me is crazy. I’ve seen some clips from my friends and nephews. I need to get some of his powers.”
Minnesota head coach P.J. Fleck even
Besides recreating rivalries and watching your team in action, EA College Football 25 offers players the chance to start their careers over again in its “Road to Glory” mode, where players start as recruits and build a legacy for themselves at whatever college they choose.
For Bryant, this meant he could assert himself as a five-star prospect with near-unlimited offers, but ultimately, the receiver chose to stick to his roots as a three-star recruit out of Atlantic Coast High School in Jacksonville, Florida.
Nevertheless, echoing back to Walters, the game isn’t quite on par with reality. Bryant pointed out how Illinois’ playbook was generic, while UCLA defensive lineman Jay Toia said his hairstyle was a little outdated.
But these differences don’t make the game feel any less competitive. Michigan State running back Nathan Carter said his Spartan teammate, defensive back Dillon Tatum, broke his remote out of frustration.
With such an outpouring of emotions, as players attempt to relive days of old and fuel their competitive natures against teammates and rivals, Ferentz can only lament that he didn’t pay more attention all those years ago. He might not have led the Hawkeyes to a virtual title, but he could’ve walked away with something more valuable — cold hard cash.
“I wish I was an investor in that company, whoever came up with it,” Ferentz said with a smile.
Weekly Wager
PETE
Daily Iowan’s official bettor’s guide to Iowa football’s week 1 matchup with Illinois State.
College Football Editor, Action Network Daily Iowan alumnus
I see this game playing out like Iowa’s season opener against Utah State last season. The Hawkeyes essentially opened up the playbook for a quarter or so, got out to a 17-3 lead by halftime, and put on cruise control. Without Kirk Ferentz on the sidelines, the Hawkeyes play it safe.
Iowa’s offense was offensive to the game of football last year. While I expect an improvement under new offensive coordinator Tim Lester — I mean, how could it get worse? — I don’t think we see a full renaissance. Plus, Iowa will keep the playbook basic with Iowa State on deck.
The Orange take on an Ohio team that was ravaged by the transfer portral, gutting them of their leading rusher, receiver, and passer.
Editor
While season-opening games always feature a rusty offense, the Iowa defense will pick up the slack and give the Hawkeyes some easy scoring opportunities given the Redbirds’ inadequacy under center. Mason King is a quality running back, but he’s nothing Iowa can’t handle.
I’m sorry, but I’ll believe it when I see it. And when there’s money on the line, in no way am I going to trust Iowa to score points. Plus, Illinois State, while an FCS school, won’t just roll over on defense. The Redbirds gave up 20.5 points per game last year, 22nd in the FCS.
The Dukes did lose their head coach, but new offensive coordinator Dean Kennedy brings a scoring pedigree from Holy Cross.
Each week during the Iowa football season, Daily Iowan Pregame Editor Matt McGowan and Action Network College Football Editor
YTD: $0
Ruden’s 2024 record: 0-0
Pete Ruden will place three hypothetical bets of $100. The score of the contest will be kept in the piggy banks to the right and left with a winner to be declared at the end of the season.
YTD: $0
McGowan’s 2024 record: 0-0
RUDEN
MATT MCGOWAN Pregame
One on One: Marco Lainez
The Daily Iowan Pregame Reporter Chris Meglio spoke with the Hawkeye backup quarterback on Iowa football media day on Aug. 9.
Chris Meglio Pregame Reporter sports @dailyiowan.com
The Daily Iowan: The first question has to be about NCAA Football. Have you played the game yet?
Lainez: Yeah, but I’m faster than Cade [McNamara]. I don’t know why my speed is slower than his in the game. But it is what it is, and I have absolutely no drip. I look like [a default] in the game.
If you could move anywhere in the world right now for free, where would you go?
Malibu, California. I drove through there once and it was just nice. I’m a big modern-style house kind of guy. Those places over there are amazing, beautiful.
Would you rather sleep in a hot, warm, or cold room?
Cold, come on. If you’re cold, you can always warm up. But if you’re hot, you can never cool down.
Shorts and a T-shirt or pajamas in the house?
Shorts and a T-shirt. People can’t see me in PJs.
What’s one food, drink, or both that you personally don’t like that all your friends do like?
Everybody here loves corn, I don’t really like corn. People like bratwursts out here too. I’ve never really had a [bratwurst], so yeah, big culture shock out here.
Coffee or no coffee?
Coffee for sure.
Do you like plain black coffee or with some cream and sugar?
So last year, I was straight black coffee, and then recently I’ve been putting a little milk in it to cool it down.
6-foot-2
Princeton, NJ
If you could be any animal in the jungle, what Jaguar because they’re pretty badass.
Grass. Clean cut grass. With turf, you get turf burns. But there’s something sick about grass, especially when it’s clean cut. It looks neat. It’s not as hard when you fall down.
Would you rather win a championship at home or away?
Definitely home because you have everybody supporting you, and the celebration would be absolutely insane.
Who’s your current favorite NFL player?
Can I give you an all-time? Well, my favorite NFL player right now is Lamar Jackson. And then my all-time favorite — I’m a diehard [New York] Giants fan. Can you imagine who that is? Eli Manning.
#11 Marco Lainez Redshirt Freshman Quarterback
Friday | 6 p.m. |
Florida Atlantic (0-0, 0-0) Michigan State (0-0, 0-0)
Spartan Stadium East Lansing, MI
Things could get interesting here. I see a tiny hint of potential in Michigan State to do a little bit of damage this year. Friday will tell me how much.
Line: Michigan State -11.5 O/U: 46.5
Friday | 8 p.m. |
Western Michigan (0-0, 0-0)
Wisconsin (0-0, 0-0) Camp Randall Stadium Madison, WI
Does Wisconsin finally have a solid quarterback? Can Braelon Allen’s shoes be filled? Is Chez Mellusi back? How is the secondary?
Line: Wisconsin -24.5 O/U: 56.5
Saturday | 11 a.m. |
Illinois State (0-0, 0-0)
No. 25 Iowa (0-0, 0-0) Kinnick Stadium Iowa City, IA
That first possession of Iowa’s season opener last year had me thinking the Hawkeyes were going to win a championship. I’ll never forget.
Line: Iowa -23.5
O/U: 41
Game Guide
Saturday | 11 a.m. |
UConn (0-0, 0-0) Maryland (0-0, 0-0) SECU Stadium College Park, MD
This would be best served on a basketball court, but Kirk Ferentz played for UConn, so I can’t disrespect. But honestly, I forgot UConn had a team.
Line: Maryland -20 O/U: 47.5
Saturday | 11 a.m. |
No. 8 Penn State (0-0, 0-0) West Virginia (0-0, 0-0) Milan Pusker Stadium Morgantown, WV
Only 10-point favorites? What if Penn State’s potential fall-off started with a WVU upset? Did someone say Tavon Austin retired?
Line: Penn State -10 O/U: 51.5
Saturday | 11 a.m. |
Indiana State (0-0, 0-0) Purdue (0-0, 0-0) Ross-Ade Stadium West Lafayette, IN
I am sound asleep. I’m in such a deep sleep that I had a dream that Cade McNamara won the Heisman Trophy. Great REM opportunity.
Line: Purdue -32.5
O/U: 48.5
Saturday | 2:30 p.m. |
Florida International (0-0, 0-0) Indiana (0-0, 0-0) Memorial Stadium Bloomington, IN
A nice and refreshing win for Hoosier football fans. Soak it all up now because the road ahead is long and hard (pause) — as it always is.
Line: Indiana -20 O/U: 50.5
Saturday | 2:30 p.m. |
Utep (0-0, 0-0) Nebraska (0-0, 0-0) Memorial Stadium Lincoln, NE
The key to watch in this one is Dylan Raiola. Flipping your commitment from Ohio State to Georgia to NEBRASKA is bold. I’ll let it go if he’s good.
Line: Nebraska -27.5 O/U: 48.5
Saturday | 2:30 p.m. |
Akron (0-0, 0-0)
No. 2 Ohio State (0-0, 0-0) Kinnick Stadium Columbus, OH
LeBron James is pacing frantically right now. “Savannah, I don’t know. Should I be the hometown kid? Or do I pick the favorites?”
Line: Ohio State -50.5 O/U: 58.5
Saturday | 2:30 p.m. |
Miami (0-0, 0-0)
Northwestern (0-0, 0-0)
Colin Votzmeyer Sports Editor
Saturday | 6:30 p.m. |
UCLA (0-0, 0-0) Hawai’i (0-0, 0-0)
Lanny and Sharon Martin Stadium Evanston, IL
I hope I get a football stadium named after me and my wife when I die. Or maybe just “Votz Stadium.” Wildcats as field-goal favorites is sad.
Line: Northwestern -3.5 O/U: 42.5
Saturday | 6:30 p.m. |
Fresno State (0-0, 0-0) No. 9 Michigan (0-0, 0-0) Spartan Stadium, East Lansing, MI
This game ends after the first quarter. Throw the back-ups in. Get the DBs right to the film room to check out Texas for next week.
Line: Michigan -21 O/U: 47.5
Saturday | 6:30 p.m. |
Idaho (0-0, 0-0)
No. 3 Oregon (0-0, 0-0) Auzten Stadium Eugene, OR
I’m afraid to even look at the line in this game. Dillon Gabriel, what about the kids? Spare some life! Please! A snap count is needed.
Line: Oregon -44.5
O/U: 63.5
Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex Honolulu, HI
Have you seen that stadium? I wouldn’t even make it to the game. I’d throw it on StreamEast on the beach. If that. One Piña Colada, please.
Line: UCLA -13.5 O/U: 55.5
Saturday | 10 p.m. |
Weber State (0-0, 0-0) Washington (0-0, 0-0) Husky Stadium Seattle, WA
Those boys are going to have a heart attack when they see The Greatest Setting in College Football. Shoutout Damian Lillard though.
Line: Washington -27 O/U: 52.5
Sunday | 6:30 p.m. |
No. 23 USC (0-0, 0-0)
No. 13 LSU (0-0, 0-0)
Allegiant Stadium Las Vegas, NV
It’s going to be so refreshing watching some nice ranked football with a total at a whopping 62.5 points. This is beautiful. Count me in.
Line: LSU -6
O/U: 62.5
Power Rankings
1. Ohio State
TreVeyon Henderson Heisman candidate. Book it.
Colin Votzmeyer Sports Editor
2. Oregon
Two words: Dillon Gabriel and Traeshon Holden - must-see TV.
3. Michigan
Harbaugh and I both are expecting Sherrone Moore in the wreckage.
4. Penn State
The Nittany Lions are never good enough.
5. Iowa Defense (might) win championships.
6. USC U-S-C! What happened? Shoutout James Droz.
7. Wisconsin
Hate to say it but the Badgers are sneaky.
8. Washington
We all will miss Michael Penix Jr. Indiana especially.
9. Nebraska
Off-brand Patrick Mahomes won’t be enough to flip this team around.
10. Rutgers
Helpful analogy: Dylan Raiola to Nebraska is what Athan Kaliakmanis is to Rutgers (see above).
11. Maryland
The potential of this conference falls off hard around here.
12. Michigan State
Don’t have too high of hopes for the Spartans under new head coach Jonathan Smith.
13. UCLA
Tough schedule makes it just as tough to produce this year.
14. Minnesota
The Gophers could sneak an upset or two — but not many.
15. Northwestern
Rebuild season for the Wildcats. Again.
16. Illinois “Illinois” might have nine Ls in it by December.
17. Indiana
What else did you expect?
18. Purdue
There are too many teams in this conference. Let’s kick this one out.
On The Line
IOWA
Sorry Jake, your football team isn’t in Normal. It’s in Purgatory.
GEORGIA
Petitioning my dog Millie as the next Uga.
PENN STATE
There isn’t a bad song about West Virginia, though.
FLORIDA
Queue some Tom Petty for the clubs Saturday night. Sign me up.
TEXAS A&M
One’s pretentious and the other’s weird. Do I have to choose?
LSU
Caleb Williams, don’t go to this game. You might cry. Bear Down still.
The Daily Iowan staff share their predictions and thoughts on this week’s upcoming games.
IOWA
Reminiscent of a deep shot to Seth to kick things off.
GEORGIA
Hate to admit it but it’s true.
IOWA
Big opportunity for the new-look offense to prove itself.
GEORGIA
Georgia is a dynasty in the making.
PENN STATE [Redacted].
MIAMI
Two of the greatest felon-producing programs of all time.
NOTRE DAME
Love thee!
WEST VIRGINIA
Mountaineers are hungry for an upset and will get it done at home.
FLORIDA
Gators will find a way to get it done in front of the home fans.
NOTRE DAME
The luck of the Irish will pay off here.
IOWA
Kirk Ferentz’s absence won’t hinder the outcome of this game.
GEORGIA
The start of Carson Beck’s Heisman campaign.
PENN STATE
The Nittany Lions’ defense will overmatch the Mountaineers.
MIAMI
My forecast says there will be a hurricane in Gainesville Saturday.
TEXAS A&M
Not a big upset, but a home upset nonetheless for the Aggies.
IOWA
Middle-of-the-pack MVC team. Hawkeye defense wins by itself.
GEORGIA
The Dawgs were snubbed last year and will be hungry.
WEST VIRGINIA
In line with Week 0, another big upset this weekend.
MIAMI
Transfers made Miami a hot CFP ticket, but let’s see if the hype is real.
NOTRE DAME
The Aggies are favored, but the Irish prove why they’re ranked higher.
IOWA
New offense, no Kirk Ferentz. Lot of stories for what should be a W.
GEORGIA
One of the fun games of the weekend.
PENN STATE Nittany Lions win on the road against an old rival.
FLORIDA
A game that flies under the radar for an opener, but still a good one.
TEXAS A&M
Notre Dame should have been in the Big Ten expansion.
IOWA No Kirk? New offense? No problem.
GEORGIA Clemson rebounds this season, but it won’t knock off Georgia.
PENN STATE
The Nittany Lions look like a real playoff contender.
MIAMI
Florida will be lucky to have a winning record with that schedule.
NOTRE DAME
Irish pull out a tough win at the Home of the 12th Man.
LSU
Game of the week.
LSU USC’s defense still has a long way to go. Tigers take this one in Vegas.
LSU
This might just be the most exciting Week 1 matchup.
LSU I still don’t trust the USC defense. And no Caleb Williams either.
LSU
USC challenges itself with Big Ten play looming. Weird to say.
LSU
Tough loss for the Pac12, err, Big Ten team.
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