Hawkeyes Gamefilm: Defensive Line vs Purdue

Like what I read about Ott and Cooper. Hope the true Freshman can grow up quick next year - maybe the makings of a solid DL, but it seems as if it's 2 years away, not 1.
 
homes said:
Like what I read about Ott and Cooper. Hope the true Freshman can grow up quick next year - maybe the makings of a solid DL, but it seems as if it's 2 years away, not 1.
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The improvement is always pretty noticeable once guys turn the corner. I think for Cooper is rounding the bend right now and I think LTP is as well. Both will be quality B1G starting caliber DTs for next year. The outlook at DT seems pretty sound.

Defensive end is a much bigger concern. Alvis will be a solid, reliable contributor next year but Iowa definitely lacks quality depth behind him. Ott is a step in the right direction and hopefully the early playing time pays off. Keys will be if guys like McMinn and Spears can add size and strength to give Iowa some solid options at the position. Both have dealt with nagging injuries that have hampered their development though.
 
HGF, where do you see Ekakite fitting in DE or DT. I think Jaleel Johnson is an obvious DT, so could Faith slide outside or is he not quick enough (hard to imagine with what we saw this year)
 
hawkfarmer said:
HGF, where do you see Ekakite fitting in DE or DT. I think Jaleel Johnson is an obvious DT, so could Faith slide outside or is he not quick enough (hard to imagine with what we saw this year)
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I didn't see Ekakite having natural speed to turn the corner off the edge but he was a great run defender on the edge in his HS film. He looked very raw in general and maybe an off-season in D1 weight program will help sort out where he fits in. Size wise he's similar to Christian Ballard and may be a tweener like Ballard was. I could see him playing both DT, DE like Ballard did as well, but it's likely his best position will be the under-tackle(3 tech) spot in Iowa's scheme.

Honestly, his best position long term may actually be a 5 technique in 3-4 . I don't see Iowa ever going to a 3-4 as their base, but it would be fun to see them use it as a sub-package some. Davis & Johnson could serve as the NT, and guys like LTP, Cooper, Hardy, & Ekakite would have potential as 5 techniques. The linebackers behind them would be a much tougher fit in a 3-4 though.
 
Ott was one of the few bright spots against Purdue. I watched just him for about 5 straight plays and hes a player, just undersized right now.
 
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