Changing teams is a difficult task for any player, even for some of the most talented in the nation. The adjustment from moving from one team to another, one conference to another, is a challenge often overlooked in college football.
Nick Jackson was as consistent as they come at Virginia. He has been one of the top linebackers in the nation, with three straight 100-tackle seasons to hang his hat on. The Atlanta, Ga., native was a two-time second-team All-ACC member with the Cavaliers before transferring to Iowa this offseason. Two weeks into the regular season, Jackson is still adjusting to being a Hawkeye.
“I think it’s been an adjustment, especially just looking at those drops from the Will position. I think it’s just going to be valuable getting those reps (early in the season),” Jackson said in a recent media availability.
Jackson has immediately played a crucial role for the Hawkeyes defense so far this season. While senior teammate Jay Higgins has stepped into Jack Campbell’s role at middle linebacker, Jackson has been tasked with a lot of pass coverage.
It’s not always the most glamorous role on the stat sheet, though he is fourth in tackles with 14, but he plays a vital role in the defense. As Jackson was saying about preparing for the rest of the season, he will be even more important against teams like Penn State who can pass the ball.
Even through the early adjustment period, Jackson and the Hawkeye defense have been up to the task two games in. They are currently surrendering just 13.5 points per game heading into Saturday’s contest versus Western Michigan, a team who Jackson stressed that Iowa cannot overlook. Even with his early success, Nick Jackson is looking for improvement.
“Yeah I think it’s good, but I mean there’s always room for improvement. I know there’s improvements that I have to make for myself. Every single week we’re just coming out here and trying to get better,” Jackson said.
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