Jan. 10, 2013
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Final 2012 Iowa Football Notes
SEASON RECAP
Iowa posted a 4-8 overall record in 2012, including a 2-6 mark in Big Ten play. The Hawkeyes were the only team in the nation to play in six games decided by three points or less during the regular season, posting a 2-4 mark in those games. Iowa had two games decided by a single point (1-1) and won at Michigan State in overtime. In two losses, at home to Central Michigan and Purdue, the visitors scored the winning points on a field goal on the final play. The Hawkeyes played nine games against teams that were selected for bowl games, in addition to an eight-win Penn State team. Three of Iowa’s non-conference opponents competed in bowl games. Iowa started the season with an 18-17 win over Northern Illinois in Chicago, scoring the winning touchdown late in the fourth quarter against a NIU team that would win its next 12 games while earning an invitation to the Orange Bowl. That was followed by a close loss to Iowa State (9-6) and a win over Northern Iowa (27-16). Iowa concluded non-conference action with a last-second 32-31 loss to Central Michigan. The Hawkeyes started fast in Big Ten play, earning a win over previously undefeated Minnesota (31-13) and the double-overtime win at Michigan State (19-16). Iowa then lost its final six games, including three-point losses to Indiana and Purdue, and a 13-7 decision to 14th-ranked Nebraska in the season finale. Senior DB Micah Hyde led the Iowa defense by earning the Tatum-Woodson Award as the top defensive back in the Big Ten. Hyde was a first team All-Big Ten selection, while senior center James Ferentz earned second team honors. Those earning honorable mention recognition included junior kicker Mike Meyer, junior tight end C.J. Fiedorowicz, junior linebacker Anthony Hitchens, junior linebacker James Morris, senior offensive lineman Matt Tobin and senior defensive end Joe Gaglione. Junior linebackers Anthony Hitchens led the team in tackles (124), while junior linebacker Christian Kirksey was third in tackles (95) had two pass interceptions and four recovered fumbles. Kirksey returned both of the interceptions for touchdowns. The Iowa offense was led by sophomore running backs Mark Weisman and Damon Bullock. Both battled injuries throughout the season. Weisman played in 10 games and rushed for 815 yards and eight scores. Bullock saw action in six games, rushing for 513 yards and three touchdowns. Quarterback James Vandenberg passed for 2,249 yards and seven touchdowns while also scoring four rushing touchdowns. The 2,249 yards passing ranks 16th in Iowa single-season history.
CLOSE GAMES THE NORM FOR IOWA
Iowa led the country with six regular season games decided by three points or less (2-4), including two contests decided by one point (1-1). This season marked the first time in school history that six Hawkeye games in a single-season have been decided by three points or less; Iowa had five (4-1) in 2009. Iowa has lost two home games (Central Michigan and Purdue) this year on the final play of the game (field goal). Iowa has played 17 games decided by three points or less since 2009. The Hawkeyes went 4-1 in those games in 2009, 1-3 in 2010, 0-2 in 2011 and 2-4 in 2012. Iowa ranks among the nation’s best in fourth quarter comebacks since 2009. The Hawkeyes mounted their ninth comeback when trailing in the fourth quarter, since 2009, at Michigan State on Oct. 13, winning in double overtime. Michigan State leads the nation with 10 comeback wins, while Iowa ties Minnesota, Ohio and Wyoming with nine wins after trailing at any point in the fourth period, since 2009.
2012 STORY LINES
? For the fifth time in the last six seasons, Iowa defeated a team that competed in a BCS bowl. That includes wins over Illinois (2007), Penn State (2008), Georgia Tech (2009), Michigan (2011) and Northern Illinois (2012). Iowa also defeated a 10-2 Michigan State team in 2010, but the Spartans did not advance to a BCS game.
? Iowa led the country with six games decided by three points or less (2-4) during the regular season, including two contests decided by one point (1-1). It marked the first time in school history that six games were decided by three points or less; Iowa had five (4-1) in 2009. Iowa lost two home games (Central Michigan and Purdue) on the final play of the game (field goal).
? Iowa’s defense collected at least one takeaway in 11 of 12 games in 2012 and 76 of its last 87 games, dating back to 2006. The Hawkeye defense posted defensive scores in two of its last four games. DB Micah Hyde returned a fumble nine yards against Purdue (Nov. 10), while LB Christian Kirksey returned an interception 18 yards at Indiana (Nov. 3).
? Iowa tied for the national lead in fewest fumbles lost (one of three teams with 3) and ranked third in fewest turnovers lost (11). The Hawkeyes played turnover-free football six times in 2012.
? Iowa recovered 13 opposing fumbles, a total that ranked second in the Big Ten and tied for 27th nationally. The 13 fumble recoveries are the most by a Hawkeye team since 2004 (15).
? Eighteen Hawkeyes started for the first time in their career in 2012. That total ranked 14th in the country.
? LB Christian Kirksey had two interception returns for touchdowns (68 and 18 yards). He was one of nine players in the country with two or more interception returns for touchdowns. Kirksey is the first Hawkeye since Micah Hyde, in 2010, to have two interceptions for scores. Hyde had a 66-yarder vs. Michigan State and a 72-yarder vs. Missouri at the Insight Bowl.
? The Hawkeyes have had one or more interception returns for a touchdown in each of the last five years, including two in 2012. Iowa has had an interception return for a score in 10 of the last 12 seasons and 10 of 14 seasons under Kirk Ferentz.
? Nine of Iowa’s 12 opponents earned bowl invitations, including three non-conference and six Big Ten opponents. Penn State also posted an 8-4 record but was no eligible for postseason play.
FERENTZ, HYDE SHARE MVP HONORS
Senior center James Ferentz and senior cornerback Micah Hyde shared the 2012 Roy J. Carver Most Valuable Player Award. Permanent team captains include Ferentz, senior quarterback James Vandenberg, linebackers James Morris and Christian Kirksey, and kicker Mike Meyer. Morris, Kirksey and Meyer are juniors. Ferentz was also the recipient of the “Iron Hawk Award,” and shared the Hayden Fry “Extra Heartbeat” Award, and the Players Choice Award. Ferentz and Morris shared the Extra Heartbeat Award and the Players Choice Award. Senior offensive lineman Matt Tobin was recognized with the 2012 Brett Greenwood Award, which is awarded to a walk-on student-athlete who embodies the values and behaviors of former Hawkeye walk-on Brett Greenwood. Established in 2011, the Greenwood Award also honors a former Hawkeye who fits the description, one year at a time, for each season Kirk Ferentz has coached the Hawkeyes. That recipient this year is 2000 senior wide receiver Kevin Kasper, who ranks third in career pass receptions and sixth in receiving yards (157-1,974). Three players were recognized with the Next Man in Award: sophomore running back Mark Weisman on offense, senior cornerback Greg Castillo on defense, and Kirksey on special teams. Meyer, as the specialist, and junior wide receiver Jordan Cotton, for overall play, shared the Reggie Roby Special Team Awards. Senior defensive lineman Steve Bigach was recognized with the Forest Evashevski Scholastic Achievement Award, which is presented to a senior student-athlete who has the highest scholastic record.
Team Leader Awards were given to six players. On offense the awards went to freshman quarterback C.J. Beathard, sophomore lineman Eric Simmons, and senior lineman Casey McMillan. Sophomore lineman Wil Rathjen earned the award on defense, while freshmen tight ends Steve Ferentz and George Krieger Kittle were recognized for special teams play.
THREE SELECTED FOR EAST WEST SHRINE GAME
Three senior members of the Iowa football program were invited to compete in the East West Shrine Game (Jan. 19). Those players included center James Ferentz, wide receiver Keenan Davis and defensive back Micah Hyde. Ferentz started all 38 games over the past three seasons. He earned second-team All-Big Ten honors from Big Ten coaches in 2012. He shared team MVP honors with Hyde in 2012 and was named one of five permanent team captains. Hyde shared Iowa’s MVP award after also starting all 38 games in his final three seasons. Hyde earned the Big Ten’s Tatum-Woodson Defensive Back of the Year Award and was first-team All-Big Ten by both league coaches and media. Hyde is tied for 18th in career interceptions (eight) and tied for 34th in career tackles (240). Davis ended his Iowa career with 112 receptions for 1,470 yards and seven touchdowns. He is tied for 14th in career receptions and ranks 19th in receiving yards. He totaled 47 receptions for 571 yards and a touchdown in 2012.
THREE SELECTED FOR ALL-STAR CLASSIC
Three senior members of the University of Iowa football program were invited to compete in the inaugural Raycom College Football All-Star Classic (Jan. 19). Those players included quarterback James Vandenberg, offensive lineman Matt Tobin and DB Greg Castillo. Vandenberg started every game over the past two seasons and was also named a permanent team captain in 2012. He ranks among Iowa’s top-seven quarterbacks in career completions (507), attempts (888), passing yards (5,786), passing touchdowns (35) and total offense (5,853). He was named to the Capital One District VI Academic All-America team for the second straight year in 2012 and earned Academic All-Big Ten honors four straight years. Tobin played both left guard and left tackle this past season. He started all 12 games and had 22 career starts. He earned honorable mention All-Big Ten recognition from league coaches in 2012 and was presented with the Brett Greenwood Award at Iowa’s awards banquet. Castillo earned his fourth letter while starting three games in 2012. He shared the team lead with two pass interceptions and recorded 26 total tackles.
BLYTHE EARNS FWAA FRESHMAN ALL-AMERICA HONOR
Redshirt freshman Austin Blythe was named Freshman All-America by the Football Writers Association of America and Scout.com. Blythe is a native of Williamsburg, Iowa. He played in 10 games, while starting nine at right guard. Blythe missed two games in the middle of the season due to injury before returning to the starting line-up for the final five contests. Blythe used 2011 as a redshirt season. He joined the Hawkeye program after earning first team all-state honors as a junior and senior at Williamsburg HS. He was honorable mention on the Parade All-America football team as a senior and was a three-time state wrestling champion.
19 SENIORS PLAYED FINAL GAME
Senior members of the Iowa football program included DL Steve Bigach, DB Greg Castillo, WR Keenan Davis, TE Zach Derby, SS Tom Donatell, OL James Ferentz, DE Joe Gaglione, FB Jonathan Gimm, CB Micah Hyde, DL Casey McMillan, PK Trent Mossbrucker, WR Nick Nielsen, FB Jacob Reisen, DB Collin Sleeper, WR Steven Staggs, DB Jack Swanson, OL Matt Tobin, QB James Vandenberg, and P John Wienke.
RETURNING STARTERS
Based on its usual starting line-up, Iowa could return 15 starters for the 2013 season, including eight on defense and seven on offense, plus PK Mike Meyer and punter Connor Kornbrath. The returning starters on defense include DL Dominic Alvis, DL Louis Trinca-Pasat, LB Anthony Hitchens, LB Christian Kirksey, LB James Morris, CB B.J. Lowery, FS Tanner Miller and SS Nico Law. The returning starters on offense would include WR Kevonte Martin-Manley, TE C.J. Fiedorowicz, OL Austin Blythe, OL Brandon Scherff, OL Brett Van Sloten, RB Mark Weisman and FB Brad Rogers. RB Damon Bullock, who started five games, also returns. Iowa had seven players on offense (Davis, Martin-Manley, Vandenberg, Ferentz, Fiedorowicz, Tobin, Van Sloten) and six on defense (Bigach, Trinca-Pasat, Alvis, Kirksey, Hyde, Miller) who started all 12 games
BIG TEN HONORS: HYDE NAMED BIG TEN’S BEST
Senior defensive back Micah Hyde was named the recipient of the Big Ten’s Tatum-Woodson Defensive Back of the Year Award. Along with being named Defensive Back of the Year, Hyde was named first-team All-Big Ten by both league coaches and media. Senior center James Ferentz was named second-team All-Big Ten by vote of the conference coaches. Hawkeye players who earned honorable mention recognition from both Big Ten coaches and media include junior tight end C.J. Fiedorowicz, junior linebacker Anthony Hitchens and junior kicker Mike Meyer. Senior offensive lineman Matt Tobin was honorable mention by league coaches, while Ferentz, senior defensive end Joe Gaglione and junior linebacker James Morris earned honorable mention recognition from the media. The Tatum-Woodson Defensive Back Award is named after former Ohio State player Jack Tatum and former Boilermaker Rod Woodson. Hyde completed the season with 78 tackles, including 44 solo tackles. He led the team with 14 pass break-ups, forced two fumbles, and had one interception. He recovered three fumbles, one of which he returned for a touchdown against Purdue. Hyde started all 38 games over his final three seasons and played in all 51 games throughout his career. He recorded 240 career tackles to tie for 34th on Iowa’s career tackle list. He is tied for 18th in career interceptions (8-142 yards) and had four forced and three recovered fumbles in his career. He had interception returns of 72 and 66 yards for touchdowns as a sophomore, which rank as the 10th and 12th-longest returns in school history. Hyde averaged 7.5 yards on 27 punt returns the last two seasons. He earned second-team All-Big Ten honors in 2011, and was honorable mention in 2010. Ferentz started all 38 Iowa games over the last three seasons. He earned honorable mention honors from both coaches and media as a junior. Tobin was recognized for the first time in his career. The native of Worthington, Iowa, started all 12 games this season and has 21 career starts. He started the first seven games of the season at left guard before starting the final four games at left tackle. Meyer had an outstanding season while leading the team in scoring with 76 points. Meyer made 17-of-21 field goal attempts. He was perfect on his 25 PAT kicks, extending his school-record streak to 81 in a row. He was one of 20 semifinal candidates for the Lou Groza Award. Fiedorowicz had his most productive season by recording 45 receptions for 433 yards and a touchdown. Hitchens (124) and Morris (113) ranked first and second on the team in tackles. Hitchens completed his first season as a starter. He led the Big Ten and ranked sixth in the nation in tackles per game (11.27). Morris has started 29 games in his three seasons, and earned honorable mention from both coaches and media in 2011. He has collected 293 career tackles to rank 16th in career stops. Among his tackles in 2012 were nine for loss, which shared the team lead. He ranked 29th in the nation in tackles per game (9.42). Gaglione earned his first postseason recognition. He started 10 games before missing the final contest against Nebraska due to injury, collecting 51 tackles. He led the team with five quarterback sacks and was the co-leader with Morris in tackles for loss (nine), while causing two fumbles. Senior quarterback James Vandenberg was Iowa’s recipient of the Big Ten Sportsmanship Award. Vandenberg (6-3, 212) took every offensive snap for the Hawkeyes in 2012. He passed for 2,249 yards and seven touchdowns in his second year as a starter. In career statistics, Vandenberg ranks fifth in pass attempts (888), sixth in pass completions (507) and seventh in passing yards (5,786), touchdown passes (35) and total offense (5,853).
ACADEMIC HONORS
Three Hawkeyes were named to the Capital One Academic All-District Six first team. Those players included senior QB James Vandenberg, senior DL Steve Bigach and junior LB James Morris. The district honor is the second for Bigach and Vandenberg, who were also honored in 2011. Vandenberg started all 12 games in 2012 and 25 consecutive games over the past two seasons. He carries a 3.36 GPA and has earned his degree in health and human physiology. Vandenberg earned academic All-Big Ten honors in each of the last three years. Bigach is majoring in environmental science and has a 3.68 GPA. He earned academic All-Big Ten honors in 2010 and 2011. Bigach started all 12 games this past season while playing both defensive end and tackle. Morris holds a 3.80 GPA and is majoring in political science. He earned academic All-Big Ten recognition in 2011. Morris has 29 career starts and ranks 16th in career tackles (293). In the last 14 seasons, under Coach Kirk Ferentz, 20 Iowa football student-athletes have combined to earn academic All-District and All-America recognition on 38 occasions.
FIRST TIME STARTERS
Eighteen Hawkeyes started for the first time in their careers in 2012, a total that ties as 14th highest in the country. Earning the first start of their career in the season-opening victory over Northern Illinois were OL Austin Blythe, OL Brett Van Sloten, RB Damon Bullock, FB Mark Weisman, DL Darian Cooper, DL Louis Trinca-Pasat, LB Anthony Hitchens, and DB B.J. Lowery. True freshman Connor Kornbrath was Iowa’s starting punter. RG Andrew Donnal started his first career contest in Iowa’s Big Ten opener against Minnesota; RB Greg Garmon started his first career contest against Penn State, while LG Jordan Walsh and WR Jordan Cotton started their first career games at Northwestern. Safety Nico Law earned his first career start at Indiana, Conor Boffeli started at left guard vs. Purdue, while TE Henry Krieger Coble, and linebackers Travis Perry and Quinton Alston, started at Michigan.
WEISMAN RETURNED TO ACTION
Sophomore RB Mark Weisman returned to action in Iowa’s final two contests after missing two full games (Indiana and Purdue) and not playing in the second half of games against Penn State and Northwestern. Weisman led Iowa’s rushing game with 16 carries for 63 yards at Michigan and he also had three receptions for 11 yards. Weisman scored his first receiving touchdown of the season on a 13-yard reception in the fourth quarter against the Wolverines. He led the team with 91 yards on 29 rushing attempts vs. Nebraska. Despite missing time due to injuries, Weisman led Iowa’s rushing attack for the season with 159 attempts for 815 yards and eight touchdowns. He also had 15 receptions for 90 yards and one score. After running backs Damon Bullock and Greg Garmon left the UNI game (Sept. 15) with injuries, Weisman was forced into full-time running back duties against UNI and Central Michigan. The walk-on fullback delivered before sustaining an injury, rushing for 661 yards and eight touchdowns on 114 attempts (5.8 avg.). Weisman ranked eighth in Big Ten rushing (81.5 avg.). His 5.1 average per carry tied for second among league running backs. Weisman saw limited action vs. Penn State and Northwestern, but did not play against Indiana and Purdue. The sophomore suffered an ankle injury, in overtime, at Michigan State. He rushed only five times for nine yards vs. Penn State and 21 yards on nine carries at Northwestern, playing in just the first two quarters in each contest. Weisman rushed for 113 yards and three scores against UNI and a career-best 217 yards and three touchdowns versus Central Michigan. The 217 yards tie for the eighth-best rushing total in Iowa single-game history. In the Big Ten opener against Minnesota, he carried the ball 21 times for 177 yards (8.4 avg.) and a score. Weisman rushed 26 times for 116 yards and a score at Michigan State. Weisman, who earned honorable mention CFPA honors against Central Michigan and Minnesota, is one of only six Big Ten players to rush for 100+ yards in four games in 2012. Weisman scored all three of Iowa’s touchdowns against UNI; two 1-yard scores and one 2-yard run. It marked the first time a Hawkeye rushed for three touchdowns in a game since Adam Robinson against Eastern Illinois (Sept. 4, 2010). Weisman tallied three of Iowa’s four touchdowns against Central Michigan, scoring from five, 12 and 34 yards out. He added an 8-yard scoring run against Minnesota and a 5-yarder at Michigan State.
FIEDOROWICZ LEAD RECEIVERS
Junior TE C.J. Fiedorowicz led Iowa’s receivers in Iowa’s last two games, reaching career high marks with eight receptions for 99 yards at Michigan. For his efforts he earned tight end honorable mention recognition from the College Football Performance Awards. He added six catches for 56 yards in the season finale against Nebraska. Fiedorowicz previously had five receptions in two different games, including earlier in 2012 against Penn State. The eight receptions are the most by a Hawkeye since Keenan Davis had 10 receptions in a win over Pittsburgh in 2011. The eight catches are the most by an Iowa tight end since Tony Moeaki had 10 for 83 yards in a 2009 win over Northern Iowa. Fiedorowicz had four receptions for 27 yards on Iowa’s first touchdown drive at Michigan. Fiedorowicz ranked third on the team with 45 receptions for 433 yards and one touchdown to lead Iowa’s tight ends. In 2011, he had 16 catches for 167 yards and three TD’s. He was named honorable mention All-Big Ten by both league coaches and media.
HYDE GETS FIRST THEFT
Senior cornerback Micah Hyde was named the Tatum-Woodson Defensive Back of the Year in the Big Ten. Hyde solidified himself as one of the nation’s best cornerbacks. The senior eclipsed the 200-tackle plateau at Michigan State and finished his career with 240 stops, a total that ties for 34th at Iowa. He also has 29 career pass break-ups and three defensive touchdowns (two interceptions, one fumble). Hyde came up with his first interception of the season in the loss at Michigan, accounting for the only turnover of the game. Hyde shared the Iowa team lead with eight tackles, including five solo stops, against Michigan and he added one pass break-up and a 14-yard punt return. The theft by Hyde is the eighth of his career, which ties for 18th best at Iowa. The previous week he recorded 11 tackles, returned a fumble nine yards for a touchdown and deflected a pass vs. Purdue. He collected his second turnover in as many weeks in the finale against Nebraska, recovering his third fumble of the season. Hyde registered single-season career bests in TFL’s (4), forced fumbles (2), fumble recoveries (3) and passes defended (14). The 14 pass deflections ranked fourth in the Big Ten and 24th in the country. The native of Fostoria, Ohio, ranked fourth on the team in tackles this year (78), leading the Hawkeye secondary. Hyde was also the team’s punt returner, returning 16 punts for 119 yards (7.4 avg.) in 2012, an average that ranked third in the league.
STANDING STRONG
Iowa’s defense posted solid numbers in 2012. The Hawkeyes ranked 13th in the country in turnover margin (+11); 27th in fumbles recovered (13); 33rd in scoring defense (23.8); 46th in turnovers gained (21); and 75th in passes intercepted (10). Iowa’s defense amassed 53 tackles for loss and forced 23 turnovers. Seven of the 23 overall takeaways were collected inside the red zone. Also, CB Greg Castillo picked off Michigan State QB Andrew Maxwell on the 14-yard line (Michigan State had not yet reached the red zone) in double-overtime to preserve a Hawkeye victory. The Hawkeye defense has collected at least one takeaway in 76 of its last 87 games, dating back to 2006.
FERENTZ FOURTH IN LONGEVITY
Completing his 14th season as Iowa’s head football coach, Kirk Ferentz ranks fourth in longevity among FBS head coaches. Ferentz is first among Big Ten coaches and ranks nationally behind Virginia Tech’s Frank Beamer, Larry Blakeney of Troy and Mack Brown of Texas.
IOWA NOTES
? The Hawkeyes tied for first in the country in fewest fumbles lost (3), tied for third in fewest turnovers lost (11) and tied for 13th in turnover margin (+1.0).
? Kirk Ferentz has amassed a record of 100-74 in 14 years as Iowa’s head coach, collecting win No. 100 at Michigan State on Oct. 13.
? Iowa has sold out Kinnick Stadium 61 of the last 64 games, including six of seven contests in 2012.
? Iowa ranks ninth in the country in consecutive contests without a missed or blocked PAT (30 games).
? The Hawkeyes tied for 25th in the nation with seven different defenders with an interception in 2012.
? Iowa’s defense collected 10 interceptions in each of the last two seasons. Seven different Hawkeyes intercepted at least one pass in 2012, with Christian Kirksey, Tom Donatell and Greg Castillo collecting two each.
? LB Anthony Hitchens recorded seven games with double-digit tackles in 2012. Hitchens led the Big Ten and ranked sixth in the country in tackles (11.3). Hitchens did not see action at Michigan due to injury.
? QB James Vandenberg finished his career with a 32:15 touchdown-to-interception ratio.
? LB Christian Kirksey’s eight tackles at Michigan put him at 200 career tackles. He became the third Hawkeye in 2012 (James Morris, Micah Hyde) and the 68th player to accomplish the feat in school history. Morris has 293 career tackles to rank 16th and Hyde has 240 to tie for 34th.
? Mark Weisman rushed for a combined 334 yards and six TD’s against Northern Iowa and Central Michigan. He became the first Hawkeye to rush for 300+ yards and score 6+ times in a two-game span since Tavian Banks in 1997. Banks had a combined 517 yards and six TD’s against UNI and Tulsa and 441 yards and eight TD’s vs. Tulsa and Iowa State.
? The Hawkeyes played seven true freshmen in 2012: P Connor Kornbrath, CB Kevin Buford, CB Sean Draper, WR Tevaun Smith, LB Nate Meier, RB Greg Garmon and DL Drew Ott.
? The Hawkeyes were 7-3 over the past two years when QB James Vandenberg threw for 219 yards or more.
? Iowa had 15 different players catch at least one pass in 2012.
? Iowa utilized two punters in 2012: freshman Connor Kornbrath and senior John Wienke. Wienke, who was mainly used on short-field punts, had nine of his 14 punts downed inside the 20, including three on the 1-yard line (Northern Illinois, Central Michigan and Northwestern). Kornbrath punted 53 times for 2,010 yards (37.9 avg.). He had a career long 61-yard punt in the finale against Nebraska. Kornbrath was one of two rookie punters in the Big Ten in 2012 (Drew Meyer, Wisconsin).
? Iowa was 0-1 on two-point conversions in 2012. The Hawkeyes failed to score on their only attempt, late in the fourth quarter in their 18-17 victory over NIU.
? Iowa was the only team to defeat Northern Illinois (12-1) during the regular season. The Hawkeyes defeated the Huskies, 18-17, on Sept. 1 at Soldier Field in Chicago to snap the longest winning streak in the nation. NIU, Iowa’s opening-game opponent in 2013, had a 12-game winning streak snapped by a loss to Florida State in the 2013 Orange Bowl.
KIRKSEY RANKS AMONG NATION LEADERS
LB Christian Kirksey ranked third on the team in tackles (95), first in fumbles recovered (4), and shared the team lead with two interceptions. The four fumbles recovered tied as second best in the country. Also, he returned his two interceptions for touchdowns (68 and 18 yards). He was one of only nine players in the country to return two or more interceptions for scores this season. Kirksey is the first Hawkeye since Micah Hyde to accomplish the feat. Hyde returned two picks for scores in 2010 (72 vs. Missouri and 66 vs. Michigan State).
MEYER GETS HIS KICKS
Junior PK Mike Meyer earned Big Ten Special Teams Player and Lou Groza Star of the Week accolades twice in 2012. Meyer was named honorable mention All-Big Ten by both league coaches and media. He first was recognized after his performance against NIU in the opener and second, in Iowa’s win at Michigan State. Meyer also earned CFPA honorable mention weekly recognition after the NIU, Central Michigan and Michigan State contests. Meyer connected on 17-of-21 field goal attempts in 2012. His streak of 13 consecutive field goals made was snapped vs. Penn State (Oct. 20), missing kicks from 49 and 37 yards. Meyer’s 50-yarder against Northern Illinois, tied his career long (at Iowa State, 2011). He made four treys against NIU and Michigan State, which matches his career high (at Iowa State, 2011 and at Indiana, 2010). His five attempts vs. NIU ties Iowa’s single-game record, which he also shares (at Indiana in 2010). Meyer was one of 20 semifinal candidates for the 2011 Lou Groza Award. He ranked eighth in Big Ten kick scoring (6.3) and ranks 27th in the country in field goals made per game (1.42). He ranks fifth on Iowa’s career scoring list with 235 points. He has made 45-58 (.776) career field goal attempts. Meyer is 33-38 (.868) from kicks 39 yards and closer; 10-16 (.625) from attempts 40-49 yards; and 2-4 (.500) from kicks 50 yards or farther. The native of Dubuque, Iowa, has made 81 consecutive PAT attempts, which is a school record. His four straight PAT’s against Central Michigan helped him surpass All-Pro Nate Kaeding’s previous record of 60 straight. Meyer’s last PAT miss was in a 37-6 win over Michigan State on Oct. 30, 2010 in Iowa City.
BULLOCK SECOND IN RUSHING YARDS
Sophomore RB Damon Bullock missed his sixth game of the season when he did not play against Nebraska (Central Michigan, Minnesota, Michigan State, Penn State and Michigan) due to injury. Bullock led the Hawkeye offense the first three games before missing four games. He concluded the season with 135 rushing attempts for 513 yards and three touchdowns and also had 18 receptions for 167 yards. Bullock returned to action against Northwestern, Indiana and Purdue. Against the Wildcats, Bullock rushed 22 times for 107 yards, while also catching five passes for 41 yards. At Indiana, he amassed 83 yards rushing and 24 yards receiving. Bullock had 43 yards rushing and one touchdown, and caught one pass for 15 yards, vs. Purdue. He amassed 680 all-purpose yards, averaging a team-best 113.3 yards per game. Bullock eclipsed the 100-yard rushing plateau twice in 2012 (Northern Illinois and Northwestern). Bullock led Iowa’s offense in the opening win, rushing 30 times for 150 yards and his first career touchdown. He scored on a 23-yard run with 2:15 remaining in the game as Iowa rallied for an 18-17 win. He also had three receptions for 26 yards. Bullock started for the first time in his career after collecting just 10 rushing attempts for 20 yards and one pass reception for 11 yards as a true freshman in 2011. The 150 rushing yards are the most for an Iowa running back in a season-opening game since 2003, when Fred Russell rushed 22 times for 167 yards in a 21-3 win over Miami, Ohio. It is also the most yards gained by a player in their first career start since Russell gained 170 yards on just 14 carries in a 57-21 win over Akron in the opening game of the 2002 season. Against UNI (Sept. 15), Bullock had 77 yards rushing, including 53 yards on Iowa’s opening drive, but left the game in the second quarter due to injury and did not return. He also had one reception for five yards. Against Iowa State (Sept. 8), Bullock totaled 109 all-purpose yards (56 receiving and 53 rushing). He had five receptions, which was a team and career best.
NEBRASKA BEATS IOWA IN SEASON FINALE
Iowa ended the season with a tough, 13-7 loss at home to No. 14 Nebraska. Both teams battled adverse conditions, with temperatures dipping below 30 degrees and wind gusts over 30 miles per hour. Iowa and Nebraska each scored on their opening drive of the game. The Cornhuskers put together a 16-play, 75-yard drive that consumed over eight minutes, culminating in a 26-yard field goal by Brett Maher. The Hawkeyes responded with a 12-play, 62-yard drive, capped by a 1-yard quarterback sneak by James Vandenberg for a 7-3 Iowa lead. The Hawkeyes forced two Nebraska fumbles in the second quarter, but were unable to convert the turnovers into points. Micah Hyde recovered a muffed punt, but Nebraska stopped Iowa on a fourth-and-one at the Cornhusker 39-yard line. One drive later, Louis Trinca-Pasat recovered a Taylor Martinez fumble, but Iowa was forced to punt seven plays later. Nebraska trimmed Iowa’s lead to 7-6 with a field goal on its opening drive of the second half. The Cornhuskers took the lead for good late in the third quarter when Rex Burkhead rushed for a 3-yard score. Connor Kornbrath’s 61-yard punt pinned Nebraska at its own 1-yard line in the fourth quarter, but Nebraska managed to burn 3:16 off the clock while gaining 32 yards. Iowa’s next drive went three-and-out, and the final drive of the game ended with an interception. Mark Weisman led Iowa in rushing with 91 yards on 29 carries. Vandenberg finished 11-of-24 for 92 yards and two interceptions. Tight end C.J. Fiedorowicz had six catches for 56 yards. Linebacker James Morris had 13 tackles, including two for loss, while linebacker Christian Kirksey had 11 tackles, including one sack. Iowa’s defense forced two turnovers, had two sacks and recorded five tackles for loss.
IOWA POSTGAME NOTES
? Iowa held Nebraska to a season-low three first-half points; its previous low was six versus Penn State on Nov. 10. The Huskers, who entered the game averaging 37.5 points per game, were limited to a season-low 13 points by the Iowa defense.
? C.J. Fiedorowicz led the Hawkeye receiving corps for the second straight game. The tight end caught six passes for 56 yards. Fiedorowicz registered 14 catches for 155 yards the last two games combined.
? CB Micah Hyde recovered his third career fumble, all in 2012, following a muffed punt in the second quarter. Hyde has been responsible for two takeaways the last two games; the senior intercepted a pass in the loss at Michigan. DT Louis Trinca-Pasat recovered his first career fumble later in the second period. Iowa was unable to convert the turnovers into points. The Hawkeye defense collected at least one takeaway in 11-of-12 contests this season and 76 of its last 87 games, dating back to 2006. Nebraska collected interceptions in the third and fourth quarters. The Huskers went three-and-out after the Hawkeyes’ first turnover and ran out the clock after Iowa’s second turnover. The Hawkeyes ended the season with a +12 turnover margin.
? All three of Iowa’s starting linebackers reached double-digits in tackles. James Morris tallied 13 tackles, marking the seventh time in 2012 the junior reached the double-digit tackle plateau. Morris’ tackle total against Nebraska moved him past Damien Robinson and into 16th place on Iowa’s career tackle chart (293). Christian Kirksey, who reached 200 career tackles the previous game at Michigan, amassed 11 tackles. Kirksey has been credited with double-digit tackles three times in 2012. Anthony Hitchens also reached double-digit tackles, the seventh time this season he recorded double-digit stops. He finished the game with 10 tackles and for the season led Iowa with 124 tackles.
? RB Mark Weisman led the Hawkeye ground attack for the second straight contest, rushing 29 times for 91 yards.
? Iowa was 1-2 in the red zone, scoring a touchdown and missing a 42-yard field goal into the strong wind. The Hawkeyes have scored on 171 of the last 201 red-zone possessions (118 TDs and 54 FGs), dating back to the Michigan State game in 2008. Nebraska was 2-3 in the red zone, kicking one field goal, scoring one touchdown, and running out the clock in the game’s final possession.
? The finale against Nebraska was Iowa’s second straight game against a ranked opponent in 2012.
? Three penalty flags were thrown in the game. Nebraska committed two penalties for 25 yards, while Iowa had one penalty for five yards.
? P Connor Kornbrath had a 61-yard punt in the fourth quarter, besting his previous best of 60 yards from the previous week at Michigan. The freshman kicked five times for 199 yards (39.8 yards), including downing two inside the 20.
? QB James Vandenberg rushed for a 1-yard touchdown on Iowa’s opening possession. It was his fourth rushing score of the season and seventh of his career. The Hawkeyes scored on their opening possession seven times in 2012. Nebraska kicked a field goal on its opening drive. The Huskers are the seventh Hawkeye opponent to score on their first possession in 2012.
FINAL DEPTH CHART INCLUDES 7 WALK-ONS, 5 TRUE FRESHMEN
Iowa’s final depth chart included seven players who originally joined the program as a walk-on. That included three on offense (OL Matt Tobin, WR Steven Staggs and RB Mark Weisman), two on defense (SS Tom Donatell and LB Travis Perry), and two specialists (PK Mike Meyer and LS Casey Kreiter). True freshmen on the depth chart included defensive back Sean Draper, running back Greg Garmon, punter Connor Kornbrath, defensive lineman Drew Ott and wide receiver Tevaun Smith.
LINEBACKER DUO LEADS TEAM IN TACKLES
Iowa’s linebacker duo of Anthony Hitchens and James Morris rank second in the country behind Houston’s Derrick Mathews and Phillip Steward (254) in total tackles. Hitchens and Morris combined for 237 total stops. Both Hitchens and Morris earned honorable mention All-Big Ten recognition. Hitchens ranked sixth in the nation in tackles per game (11.3). Hitchens was tabbed CollegeSportsMadness’ Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week on Oct. 14 after his performance at Michigan State. He played in all but one game in 2012 (at Michigan). Hitchens posted double-digit tackles seven times in 2012. He notched tackle No. 100 for the season at Indiana. Hitchens finished the season ranked first in the Big Ten in tackles. Hitchens was credited with eight stops vs. Purdue and 10 against Nebraska. The junior amassed 19 tackles, including one for loss, against Iowa State. The 19 tackles are the most by a Hawkeye since LB Abdul Hodge had 22 vs. Illinois on Oct. 1, 2005. He shared game-high tackle honors with 14 against Central Michigan, while he amassed a game-high 12 stops in Iowa’s win over Minnesota. Hitchens registered a game-high 15 tackles at Michigan State. Morris, who was on the preseason Bednarik, Butkus and Rotary Lombardi award watch lists, earned honorable mention recognition from the College Football Performance Awards (CFPA) for his play vs. Iowa State. Morris ranked third in the Big Ten and 29th nationally in tackles (9.4). He began the 2012 season with eight tackles in the win over NIU, including one tackle for loss, and had eight stops in Iowa’s win over UNI. Morris registered double-digit tackles seven times in 2012 (Iowa State, Central Michigan, Minnesota, Michigan State, Penn State, Purdue and Nebraska), including six of the last nine contests. He had 12 tackles against Central Michigan, Iowa State and Penn State; 11 against Purdue; and 10 vs. Minnesota and Michigan State. Morris is the 66th Iowa player to reach the 200-tackle plateau. He has 293 tackles (127 solo, 166 assists) to rank 16th in school history. Against Iowa State, the Solon, Iowa, native totaled 12 tackles, including one for loss, intercepted his second career pass at the goal line (49 yard return) and recovered his first career fumble. Morris earned honorable mention All-Big Ten honors from both league coaches and media in 2011 as well. He tied for the team lead in tackles (110 in 12 games) and ranked fifth in the Big Ten and 37th in the nation. Morris recorded 52 solo stops and 58 assists, along with one pass interception, in 12 games.
DAVIS, MARTIN-MANLEY LED HAWKEYE RECEIVING CORPS
Senior Keenan Davis and sophomore Kevonte Martin-Manley led Iowa’s receivers, as both totaled 571 receiving yards on over 45 receptions. Davis became the 35th Hawkeye wide receiver to eclipse 1,000 receiving yards when his 75 yards on four catches against Iowa State pushed him over 1,000. Davis caught 112 passes for 1,470 yards in his career. He caught his 100th career pass in the third period against Penn State on Oct. 20. Davis ranks 19th in career receiving yards at Iowa (1,470 yards). Martin-Manley led the team with 52 receptions, while Davis was second in receptions (47); they ranked sixth (4.3) and ninth (3.9) in the Big Ten in receptions per game, respectively. Davis was on the preseason Biletnikoff, Senior Bowl and CFPA award watch lists. Martin-Manley caught a career-best seven catches in road games at Northwestern and Indiana. Martin-Manley had a career-high 131 yards receiving on seven receptions at Indiana.
IOWA LIKES STARTING ON OFFENSE
Iowa has started the game on offense in 143-of-174 games under Kirk Ferentz. The Hawkeyes started on offense eight times in 2012: Northern Illinois, Central Michigan, Minnesota, Michigan State, Penn State, Indiana, Purdue and Michigan; Iowa started on defense against Iowa State, UNI, Northwestern and Nebraska. Iowa is 16-15 in the games it has started on defense under Ferentz.
IOWA AMONG TOP 25 IN WINS, 2002-12
Iowa has posted 89 wins since the start of the 2002 season, which ranks as the 22nd highest total in Division I football. The list includes the following: Boise State (128); Oklahoma (118); Ohio State (117); USC (116); LSU (116); Texas (112); TCU (110); Georgia (110); Virginia Tech (108); Florida (106); Alabama (104); Wisconsin (102); West Virginia (102); Oregon (102); Auburn (97); Utah (97); Florida State (97); Nebraska (92); Texas Tech (92); Michigan (90); Miami, FL (90); Iowa (89); Hawai’i (87); Boston College (85).
IOWA PROGRAM NOTES
? Iowa defeated a team ranked in the top five in the nation, in the Associated Press rankings, in 2008 (Penn State), 2009 (Penn State) and 2010 (Michigan State), along with defeating 13th-ranked Michigan in 2011.
? For the fifth time in the last six seasons, Iowa defeated a team that participated in a BCS bowl. That includes wins over Illinois (2007), Penn State (2008), Georgia Tech (2009), Michigan (2011) and Northern Illinois (2012). Iowa also defeated a 10-2 Michigan State team in 2010, but the Spartans did not advance to a BCS game.
? Iowa earned Big Ten Conference championships in 2002 and 2004 and placed second in 2009. Iowa (8-0, 2002) is one of three Big Ten teams to post a perfect mark in conference play since 1998 (BCS era).
? Iowa has ranked in the top 10 in the final Associated Press and CNN/USA Today coaches polls in four of the past 11 seasons, including a ranking of seventh in both polls at the conclusion of the 2009 season. Iowa ranked eighth in 2002, 2003 and 2004.
? Iowa established a school record with 11 wins in 2002 (11-2) and matched that record in 2009. In 2009, Iowa won 10 regular season games for just the fourth time in school history.
? Iowa won 10 or more games in three consecutive years (2002-04) for first time in school history.
? Iowa compiled an eight-year record of 85-42 (.669), 2002-11, including a 50-30 Big Ten record. The 85 victories tied as the 17th best total in the nation during that time span.
? Kirk Ferentz has been named Big Ten Coach of the Year three times (2002, 2004 & 2009) and he was named National Coach of the Year in 2002. Ferentz joins Michigan’s Bo Schembechler (four), Iowa’s Hayden Fry (three) and Penn State’s Joe Paterno (three) as the only coaches to be honored in more than two seasons.
? Iowa has had national award winners in: Robert Gallery (2003 Outland, Top Lineman); Brad Banks (2002 Davey O’Brien, Top Quarterback; 2002 Associated Press National Player of the Year); Dallas Clark (2002 Mackey, Top Tight End); Nate Kaeding (2002 Groza, Top Kicker); Shonn Greene (2008 Doak Walker, Top Running Back).
? Iowa has appeared in the final Associated Press poll 21 times in program history, a total that ranks 25th best in the country.
BEST IN THE BIG TEN
Iowa has posted a 6-4 bowl record under Coach Kirk Ferentz. Since the 2001 season, no Big Ten team has won more bowl games or has a higher winning percentage in bowl games than Iowa. Following is the record for Big Ten teams in bowl games since 2001:
BEST DECADE FOR IOWA FOOTBALL
Iowa’s football record in the 2000 decade was 80-45 (.640), a record that ranks as the best decade in Iowa football history, based on total wins. Iowa posted a record of 77-40-4 (.652) during the 1980’s and the Hawkeyes were 62-53-2 (.538) in the 1990’s. Part of the Hawkeye success is due to the stability in the program, as Iowa has had just two head coaches since 1979. Hayden Fry took over prior to the 1979 season and coached through the 1998 season, posting a record of 143-89-6. Current Coach Kirk Ferentz replaced Fry, leading the program for the last 14 seasons. Ferentz also served as Iowa’s offensive line coach from 1981-89 under Fry.
IOWAN CALLING THE SIGNALS
Senior QB James Vandenberg started all 12 games in 2012, 13 games in 2011 and 27 overall in his career. Vandenberg was on four preseason watch lists (Davey O’Brien, Maxwell Award, Manning Award and CFPA Quarterback Trophy). He was named a Capital One District Six Academic All-American for the second straight year and is a two-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree. Vandenberg completed 223-389 passes for 2,249 yards and seven TD’s in 2012. His 187.4 yards per game average ranked fifth in the Big Ten. The 2,249 yards passing ranks 16th in Iowa single-season history. Vandenberg also rushed for four scores, including two at Northwestern (Oct. 29). Vandenberg completed 507-888 passes for 5,786 yards and 35 career touchdowns. He ranks seventh at Iowa in career passing yards and touchdowns. Vandenberg completed 237-of-404 pass attempts for 3,022 yards and 25 touchdowns in 2011. He ranked third in the Big Ten in passing yards per game (232.5), fourth in total offense (237.2) and fifth in pass efficiency (138.5). Vandenberg is a native of Keokuk and is the second quarterback from the state of Iowa under Coach Kirk Ferentz. Kyle McCann (Creston) led Iowa to victory in the 2001 Alamo Bowl, the first bowl win for Coach Kirk Ferentz. Two native Iowans have led the Hawkeyes to Rose Bowl wins, including Kenny Ploen (Clinton) during the 1956 season and Randy Duncan (Des Moines) during the 1958 season. Both were first team All-Americans. St. Ansgar native Matt Sherman led Iowa to a pair of bowl wins (1996 Alamo and 1997 Sun Bowl), while Iowa City native Paul Burmeister was Iowa’s quarterback in the 1993 Alamo Bowl. Additional Iowa natives who passed for over 1,500 yards, but never led Iowa in a bowl game, include Gary Snook (Iowa City, 1963-65), Ed Podolak (Atlantic, 1966-68, who ended his Iowa career as a prolific running back), Phil Suess (Des Moines, 1977-80), Randy Reiners (Ft. Dodge, 1996-99), Tom McLaughlin (Dubuque, 1975-77), Al DeMarco (Mason City, 1947-48) and Glen Drahn (Elkader, 1948-50).
VANDENBERG NAMED SEMIFINALST FOR CAMPBELL TROPHY
QB James Vandenberg was a semifinalist for the National Football Foundation’s William V. Campbell Trophy. Selected as the best and brightest from college football, the Campbell Trophy, named in honor of Bill Campbell, former player and head coach at Columbia University and the recipient of the NFF’s Gold Medal in 2004, recognizes an individual as the absolute best scholar-athlete in the nation. Candidates for the awards must be a senior or graduate student in their final year of eligibility, have a grade point average of at least 3.2 on a 4.0 scale, have outstanding football ability as a first team player or significant contributor, and have demonstrated strong leadership and citizenship.
COLLECTING INTERCEPTIONS
Iowa’s defense has ranked among national leaders in causing turnovers in recent seasons. Since the start of the 2008 season, Iowa has collected 83 interceptions, a total that ranks among the best in the nation over that span. Iowa had 10 interceptions in 2011, with two of those being returned for touchdowns (89 yards by DB Shaun Prater and 98 yards by DB Tanner Miller). Iowa’s defense also registered 10 interceptions in 2012 (two vs. Iowa State; one against UNI, Northwestern, Michigan State, Michigan and Indiana; three vs. Minnesota). The 10 passes intercepted ranked 65th in the country. Two of the 10 thefts were returned for touchdowns, both by linebacker Christian Kirksey. Kirksey posted interception returns of 68 (Minnesota) and 18 yards (Indiana) in 2012. The interception return against Minnesota is the third longest in school history. The Hawkeyes have had an interception return for a touchdown in each of the last five years, including four in 2010. Iowa has had an interception return for a score in 10 of the last 12 seasons and 10 of 14 seasons under Kirk Ferentz.
BIG PLAY HAWKEYES
Iowa had 24 pass plays and 10 rushing plays, along with 20 KO returns, two punt returns, one interception return, one fumble return, and 15 field goals, of at least 20 yards. Jordan Cotton had four kickoff returns of 20 yards or more. The Hawkeyes had a season-best seven offensive plays (three rush and four pass) over 20 yards against Minnesota. Hawkeye opponents had 32 passing plays, 10 rushing plays, 13 KO returns, one punt return, one interception return, and 15 field goals of at least 20 yards. Iowa did not allow No. 13 Nebraska any plays resulting in 20 yards or more in the season finale.
GAGLIONE HAS CAREER GAME
Joe Gaglione led the Hawkeye defensive line in the team’s 19-16 double-overtime win at Michigan State. The senior amassed a career-high 11 tackles, which includes 1.5 TFL’s and a sack. He earned honorable mention All-Big Ten honors at the conclusion of the season. The defensive end led Hawkeye defensive linemen with 51 tackles, nine TFL’s and five sacks. He also shared the team lead with two forced fumbles (Micah Hyde and Steve Bigach). Gaglione tied for 14th in sacks (0.45) in the Big Ten. He earned honorable mention honors from CFPA for his efforts in week one’s win over NIU. Gaglione played a key role for the Iowa defense that held NIU to just 201 yards of total offense. Gaglione recorded six tackles, including three tackles for loss and a sack. He forced an NIU fumble that was recovered by Iowa and led directly to a Hawkeye field goal in the third quarter.
IOWA IN THE RED ZONE
Iowa was 30-38 (79%) in the red zone, scoring 18 TD’s and 12 field goals. The Hawkeyes have scored on 174 of the last 204 (.853) red zone possessions (120 TDs and 54 FGs), dating back to the Michigan State game in 2008. Hawkeye opponents were 38-48 (79%) inside the red zone. Iowa’s defense collected six takeaways (five fumbles and one interception) inside the red zone in 2012. Iowa forced and recovered a red-zone fumble in three of the last six contests.
POINTS OFF TURNOVERS
Iowa scored 48 points following 23 defensive takeaways. The 23 turnovers gained ranked 40th in the country. The Hawkeyes collected at least one takeaway in every game this season, except Central Michigan. The Hawkeye defense posted defensive scores in two of the final four games. DB Micah Hyde returned a fumble nine yards against Purdue (Nov. 10), while LB Christian Kirksey returned an interception 18 yards at Indiana (Nov. 3). Iowa was without a takeaway at Michigan State (Oct. 13) until CB Greg Castillo intercepted QB Andrew Maxwell in the second overtime to preserve the Hawkeye road victory. Iowa’s defense has collected at least one takeaway in 76 of its last 87 games, dating back to 2006. Hawkeye opponents scored 24 points following 11 turnovers (eight interceptions and three fumbles). The Hawkeyes tied for fourth in the nation in fewest turnovers lost (11). Iowa had no turnovers in six games (Northern Illinois, UNI, Minnesota, Northwestern, Purdue and Michigan). The Hawkeye offense had two interceptions against Iowa State and Nebraska (zero points allowed), and Indiana (touchdown), lost a fumble against Central Michigan (field goal), had an interception at Michigan State (touchdown), and lost a fumble and had two interceptions against Penn State (touchdown).
HAWKEYES THIRD IN BOWL APPEARANCES
Iowa ranks third in Big Ten bowl appearances. Ohio State and Michigan have received a conference-best 42 bowl bids, and the Hawkeyes (26). Wisconsin ranks fourth with 24. Iowa (14-11-1, .558), Penn State (27-15-2, .636) and Purdue (9-8, .529) are the only Big Ten teams with a winning percentage in bowl games. Nebraska, which competed in the Big Ten for the first time in 2011, holds a 24-25 (.490) record in 49 bowl games. Iowa was one of 10 Big Ten Conference teams to play in a bowl game following the 2011 season, while seven Big Ten teams played in bowl games following the 2012 season. Since the inception of the BCS in 1998, the Big Ten has qualified 26 teams for BCS bowls, more than any other conference. The Big Ten has had two teams competing in BSC bowl games in 11 of 15 seasons. Seven different Big Ten programs have played in BCS bowl games.
FATHER’S FOOTSTEPS
Iowa had seven players on its 2012 roster whose father played for the Hawkeyes. WR Jordan Cotton (Marshall in 1984-87), OL Cole Croston (Dave in 1984-86), TE Zach Derby (John in 1988-91), QB Dan Hartlieb (Chuck in 1986-88), OL Mitch Keppy (Myron in 1986-87), ATH George Krieger Kittle (Bruce in 1977-80) and DB Sean Skradis (Bryan in 1977-81).
ALL IN THE FAMILY
Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz had each of his three sons involved in the Iowa program in 2012. Brian, a former Hawkeye letterman (2003-05), was in his first season as Iowa’s offensive line coach. James was a senior offensive lineman who started 38 games at center over the last three seasons. Steven is a tight end who was in his first season in the program as a true freshman. Ferentz was one of seven FBS head coaches who coached a son in 2012, and was the only head coach with two sons on a roster. Nebraska assistant coach Barney Cotton had three sons on the 2012 Cornhusker roster.
HAWKEYE HISTORY
Iowa has played 1,167 games since beginning football in 1889. Iowa’s overall record is 598-530-39 (.529). That includes a 378-207-16 (.642) record in home games, a 220-323-23 (.409) record in games away from Iowa City, a 295-358-25 (.454) mark in Big Ten games and a 261-171-15 (.601) record in Kinnick Stadium.
IOWA BOWL NOTES
? Iowa was bowl eligible (2001-2011) for 11 straight seasons under Coach Kirk Ferentz and his staff.
? The Hawkeyes have appeared in 10 bowl games since 2001. Iowa won the Outback Bowl over South Carolina following the 2008 season, concluded the 2009 campaign with a win over Georgia Tech in the Orange Bowl and defeated Missouri in the 2010 Insight Bowl. That three-game bowl win streak (2008-10) is an Iowa record.
? The Hawkeyes have posted a 6-4 record in bowl games under Ferentz, including wins in four of six January bowl games.
? Since 2001, no Big Ten team has won more bowl games or has a higher winning percentage in bowl games, than Iowa.
? Overall, Iowa has posted a 14-11-1 (.558) record in 26 bowl games. The Hawkeyes have competed in the Rose (five times), Alamo (four), Holiday (three), Outback (three), Orange (two), Peach (two), Sun (two), Insight (two), and the Capital One, Gator and Freedom bowls once.
? Iowa (14-11-1, .558), Penn State (27-15-2, .636) and Purdue (9-8, .529) are the only Big Ten teams with a winning percentage in bowl games, while Nebraska is 24-25 (.490).
HOME GROWN HAWKEYES
Iowa’s roster of 116 players includes 45 players from Iowa. The roster includes 13 players from Illinois; 11 from Ohio; six from Michigan; five from Florida and Texas; four from Maryland; three from Nebraska; two from Georgia, Missouri, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin; one from Arizona, Connecticut, Indiana, Minnesota, Montana, New York, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Washington, and West Virginia; and three from Canada and one from Australia.
MORE THAN ONE
Eleven high schools have contributed more than one player to the current Iowa football roster. The leader is Iowa City High (Iowa), Washington HS in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and Solon, Iowa HS with three each. Those with two include Cass Technical HS in the Detroit area, DeMatha Catholic in the Washington, D.C. area, Dowling HS in West Des Moines, Iowa, Heelan HS in Sioux City, Iowa, Hazelwood East HS in the St. Louis area; Mount Pleasant, Iowa HS, Oskaloosa, Iowa HS, Wahlert HS in Dubuque, Iowa and Regina HS in Iowa City.
THE HAWKEYES, SIZE WISE
Freshman QB Dan Hartlieb is the lightest Hawkeye player at 155 pounds. Sophomore DL Carl Davis and sophomore OL Brandon Scherff are the heaviest at 310 pounds. A total of six Hawkeye players are listed at 300 pounds or more. The tallest players, at 6-7, are sophomore OL Andrew Donnal, junior TE C.J. Fiedorowicz, redshirt freshman DE Riley McMinn and junior OL Brett Van Sloten. The shortest players, at 5-8, are sophomore Jordan Canzeri and freshman Riley McCarron. The average Hawkeye player is 6-2 and weighs 227 pounds. That is one inch taller and 3.3 pounds lighter than the average Iowa player in 2011.