Some thoughts on next year's team

[JHHawk]

I am a fan of Dom Alvis, but he missed so many games that the Iowa defense played excellent in...it is hard to argue that there was a big dropoff when Dom got hurt. Maybe it was unrelated to losing him, and the whole defense just improved, but I hardly think there will be a big dropoff next year at his position...Hardy/Meiers played well.

Replacing the lbers and Miller/ Lowery is clearly the real issue on defense next year. We have guys, but never know til they get on the field how they will actually perform under pressure.

 

[LASBUR]

You would be wrong. He was doing a big job leading and mentoring when he wasnt even able to play. This isnt even really debatable. Sorry

That is debatable as the dl played better without him. Great leaders bring those around them up to a new level. Yet the dl found a new level without him on the field. I would say he wasn't the leader but just an average player. Trinca pasat seems to be the real leader.

 

[NCHawker]

way too much focus on the OLine. Its necessary but not sufficient. We need playmakers at QB, WR and RB to contend for a conference tittle.

 

[Foval21]

You would be wrong. He was doing a big job leading and mentoring when he wasnt even able to play. This isnt even really debatable. Sorry

Maybe he should be a coach then. He was the 4 best dl when he played and the line seemed to get better when he got hurt. I like his motor but he was replaced this year and will probably be the easiest starting player on either side of the ball to be replaced next year.

 

[bigjim]

Thats what im worried about next yr is the LB positions. Were losing all of our starting LBs some guys are going to have some huge shoes to fill

 

[LASBUR]

I think what I said agreed with you about his talant and skill level. Where I disagrreed over was his value as a leader this past year. I also think LTP is developing as a leader. So I am not knowking anyone else. But to say he wont be missed is just wrong.

Maybe he should be a coach then. He was the 4 best dl when he played and the line seemed to get better when he got hurt. I like his motor but he was replaced this year and will probably be the easiest starting player on either side of the ball to be replaced next year.

 

[lightning1]

We could be favorites over Wisconsin too. They lose their entire front 7 on defense. That's not going to be easy to overcome. Not sure about Nebraska though.