Week #1: Iowa vs. Northern Iowa Preview

In Iowa City incense was burned, cries were railed, prayers were shouted and behold Kirk Ferentz is back for another season on the Hawkeye sideline. Ferentz’ 10 years has resulted in a 70-53 mark. The 2008 Hawkeyes went 9-4, 5-3 in the Big Ten, capping off the season nicely with a dominating performance against the Game Cocks of South Carolina, 31-10.

The 09 Hawks should sustain the success. Replacing RB Shonn Greene will be near impossible but returning the emerging QB Ricky Stanzi will help. Stanzi had a solid sophomore season including a big upset over Penn St. The offensive line will be very good again returning 3 starters with stalwarts at both tackle positions. The defense will be solid again in 09.

The Hawkeyes open the 09 campaign against in state rival Northern Iowa who is a member of the FCS, subdivision formerly 1AA.

Prediction: Iowa will steam roll their in state neighbors. Iowa 39 Northern Iowa 13

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