Iowa football is running the football. While the rest of the Big Ten and college football world may be demonstrating a philosophy change, Iowa’s viewpoint hasn’t wavered. They will continue to play and win the same way they have for years now. They play tough defense and they run the ball at will against you on offense.
Unfortunately, they haven’t been running the ball at will in recent years. They’ve posted some of their lowest rushing numbers over the past two seasons, and have looked outmatched at times against top defenses. Part of this is due to the offensive scheme by Ferentz, partly by the offensive line, and partly by the passing attack having no bite to it. Iowa has asked a lot out of its running game, and there’s only so much it can do given the competition that they face in the Big Ten.
There is absolutely talent in this running back room, though. In particular, Kaleb Johnson. A true freshman last year, Johnson showed star potential for the Hawkeyes. Here is a look at the running backs ahead of the 2023 season.