At this point, the Iowa Hawkeyes and their defensive prowess is a machine that runs itself. Year after year their units are among some of the best in the country across the board.
The secondary is certainly one of the self-operating machines for Phil Parker’s defense. Recent stars such as Desmond King, Dane Belton, and Riley Moss have made the jump to the NFL. The current roster includes future NFL talent in Cooper DeJean, Xavier Nwankpa, Jermari Harris, and Quinn Schulte. That talent earned Iowa the No. 5 spot on Pro Football Focus’ top 10 secondaries in college football.
Top 10 Secondaries in College Footballđź”’
(Via: @MaxChadwickCFB) pic.twitter.com/qOh7Vreb68
— PFF College (@PFF_College) August 12, 2023
The quartet of DeJean, Schulte, Nwankpa, and Harris brings nine years of experience to the Hawkeyes’ secondary. The group has tallied a total of 203 tackles, 12 interceptions, and 31 pass breakups. Not only do they get their hands on the ball, they have converted four of those interceptions into touchdowns.
With a defensive line that is flashing right now and an offense that could provide at least some life to the Hawkeyes, this secondary could have ample opportunities to feast in games they are ahead. Iowa’s defense can stonewall the ground game and if they get a lead, this group can sit on routes and dare quarterbacks to throw into dangerous areas.
Also in the top 10 secondaries hailing from the Big Ten are the Michigan Wolverines at No. 2 and the Penn State Nittany Lions at No. 6.
[lawrence-auto-related count=3]
[affiliatewidget_smgtolocal]
Contact/Follow us @HawkeyesWire on Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Iowa news, notes, and opinions.
Follow Riley on Twitter:Â @rileydonald7