Nov. 22, 2012
- 2012 Hawkeye Football Game Day Central
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- 2012 UI Fall Football Camp Central
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- Big Ten Network: Free Hawkeye Video
- 24 Hawkeyes to Watch
- Thursday Interview with L. Woods
IOWA CITY, Iowa – University of Iowa linebacker coach LeVar Woods and the Hawkeyes are ready for their final contest of the season Friday, and one thing Woods is thankful for is that fact that his group of linebackers is a young group that will have plenty of players returning in 2013. But for now, the Hawkeyes are focused on Friday’s contest against Nebraska inside Kinnick Stadium (11:07 a.m., ABC).
“This week has gone by quickly,” said Woods, following the final practice session Thursday. “We’ve had a good week, a crisp week of practice. We will have to play well, as Nebraska features one of the best offenses in the Big Ten. We have to be able to stop the run, and the play action passing game.
Iowa’s leading tacklers this season have been the linebackers, including Anthony Hitchens, James Morris and Christian Kirksey. Woods is glad to note that all three are juniors.
“Everyone one in this group came into the season as a young player,” said Woods, who is completed his first season as one of Iowa’s fulltime assistant coaches. “They have gained a lot of valuable experience and will be able to be the leaders of our defense going into next season.”
As the Hawkeyes held their final practice of the season, Woods was well aware that it was taking place on Thanksgiving Day.
“I have a lot of things to be thankful for,” said Woods. “My family first, and then to be able to be a part of the Iowa program and to have this opportunity. I’m very thankful for our Hawkeye fans. They are very supportive of the program and have supported me as a player, and now as a member of the coaching staff. Happy Thanksgiving!”