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The Iowa Hawkeyes are seeing massive success on the ground through their first three games. Running back Kaleb Johnson is the nation’s leading rusher, but that would not be done without the offensive line finding success.
The past few seasons had seen Iowa’s offensive line playing okay but not necessarily up to the standard that was to be expected from Kirk Ferentz teams.
With Tim Lester’s new offense, Iowa has run for more than 200 yards in every game this year. They are confident and proving that the offense can lean on them.
Ferentz was asked why this year is different and how the growth has led to a high level of execution.
“It’s a process, and we are gaining ground. We’re not there yet. But I think we’re getting better, and the things that you referenced takes some experience. It takes a lot of work on the field and in the meeting rooms, too. Guys have a real opportunity to really learn and move and improve in the meeting rooms,” Ferentz said as to how the offensive line is maturing.
Through three games, not only is Iowa finding success with over 200 yards per game, but they are doing it each run. The Hawkeyes are averaging 5.9 yards per carry and have found the end zone seven times.
“I think the thing is the guys are more confident right now. They’re certainly more physically mature than they’ve been, and we’re healthier, too, so all those things help. George does a great job with those guys.”
“But it’s a process, and if we’re doing it right, we’ll get better week to week, and hopefully by mid-season or so we’re really starting to have some proficiency,” added Ferentz about how the offensive line could continue to get even better.
The offensive line will get their toughest test yet when they take on the Minnesota Golden Gophers this weekend in their Big Ten opener. The Gophers…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/kirk-ferentz-comments-growth-iowa-123014413.html
Author : Hawkeyes Wire
Publish date : 2024-09-18 12:30:14
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