Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz has been a hot commodity in the coaching ranks since seemingly stepping foot into Iowa City 10 years ago. Last year was the first time anyone in the Iowa community had ruffled feathers about the program seemingly becoming stagnant. Six-win seasons in 2006 and 2007 were being followed up by a 3-3 start. But the Hawkeyes ripped off six wins in their last seven games, including a three-touchdown thrashing of South Carolina in the bowl game. Now Hawk faithful are wondering about the follow-up. Insiders say that QB Ricky Stanzi has dramatically improved, so much so, in fact, that the two top backups BOTH transferrred out of the program, leaving the depth chart perilously thin. Despite losing RB Shonn Greene to the NFL, there should be ample backfield talent for the program to not lose much. The line should be decent.

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On defense, two stud tackles depart and will be tough to replace. With both ends back, the line could be softer against the run but also put more pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The playmakers are in the secondary, as Iowa led the league in pass efficiency in 2008 and should be up near the top again if a pass rush can again compliment the coverage. The schedule includes four winnable non-conference games, and Iowa followers will again be looking for a New Year's Day bowl game.

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