Oct. 18, 2012
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IOWA CITY, Iowa — University of Iowa offensive coordinator Greg Davis calls the Penn State front seven one of the best groups the Hawkeyes have played to date; UI defensive coordinator Phil Parker says the Nittany Lion offense that averages 390 yards a game, is gelling.
Davis and Parker spent time with hawkeyesports.com following Thursday’s practice inside the indoor practice facility.
“Their quarterback (Matt McGloin) has done a good job of running their offense,” Parker said.
McGloin, a senior, averages 249.8 passing yards a game with 12 touchdowns and two interceptions. Iowa counters with a stingy defense that ranks fourth in the Big Ten Conference.
“We have done a good job in the film room and also on the practice field,” Parker said. “They had a lot of energy the whole week.”
Davis expects another tight game that could be decided in the fourth quarter. All eyes will be on the Hawkeye offensive backfield that could feature true freshman Greg Garmon, who played both overtime periods during Iowa’s 19-16 victory at Michigan State on Oct. 13.
“Greg will be fine,” Davis said. “Greg has worked hard. He got thrown into the fire last week in overtime. The big thing is he took care of the ball. He is much more confident this week, and he has had a good week of preparation. I think he will play fine.”
Iowa and Penn State enter the game with identical records of 4-2 overall, 2-0 in the Big Ten. The Nittany Lions have won four games in a row; Iowa is on a two-game winning streak. Kickoff from Kinnick Stadium is scheduled for 7:01 p.m. (CT). The game will be televised to a national audience by BTN with Eric Collins, Derek Rackley, and Jon Jansen calling the action.
The all-time series between the schools is tied, 12-12; Iowa holds a 9-3 advantage since 1993 when Penn State joined the Big Ten.
To watch interviews with Parker and Davis, click HERE.