Four Freshmen will play this year

[Eda]

And why does Iowa have less blowout wins? IMO, it's Iowa's prevent pass defense played every down. You know what they say about prevent pass defenses... They don't prevent anything.

Could also be because Iowa isn't an elite program, like the examples offered.

 

[Eda]

How many of those freshmen are actually contributors not just playing in blowouts for the 'good' schools. Honest question. And there's a big difference in true freshmen at those schools and Iowa. 4-5 stars vs 2-3 stars. There aren't many true freshmen that can come in and be a difference maker from day 1. Bring some of those kids to Iowa or other schools and they wouldn't look as good overall because of talent around them. It is a team game. And really this is a tired subject, recruiting may get better with wins but not on par with the blue bloods year in and year out.

It could also be mentioned that a 5 star player (by definition) is one that can come in and have an immediate impact. Iowa doesn't get those players; thus a more developmental program.

I would also assume the idea of immediate playing time (whether it be due to talent level of the player or early departures to the NFL) is one of the reasons the 5 star chooses to the elite school.

 

[Billso]

And why does Iowa have less blowout wins?

Because we don't play enough freshmen, obviously.