This weekend (Pitt game) will tell us where this team is headed

[STILLBUSTER]

What about a scenario of going 2-2 in non-conf, but going 6-2 in conf (losses to UM and Neb) - that would get them a bowl, I would have to think. Probably 4th B1G pick?

Absolutely, as would many scenarios with a winning conf record. I just don't believe those scenarios will play out. Just too many indications (from the at best questionable lack of competent game flow awareness / situational management on the part of the coaches to the pervasive positional breakdowns on defense) that the entire season is going to be uphill. And, knock on wood, we still haven't seen the inevitable injuries.

Always thought Iowa's best case conf record was 4-4, making the non-conf so crucial to a "decent looking" record during the rebuilding / transitional year. Going 2-2 in non-conf eliminates all margin for error for a team that needs a game or 2 buffer for bowl eligibility.

 

[storminspank]

Good stuff.

 

[bhawkn30]

I don't either Justin, but I think the OP is right.

We all think that we walked into a hornets nest and that none of us should really be all that surprised by it.

But we looked flat out horrible on Saturday. We looked like a lower division Big 10 team.

If we come out and throttle Pitt, than it will be very likely a case of ISU being the typical thorn in our side.

If we come out and look like we did last week, it has serious program implications given the upward movement by some teams in the Big 10.

Bruce, I think you nailed it!