Iowa's defense looks strong heading into 2016
Posted April 23, 2016 7:00 am
IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) - Iowa had hoped that the return of star defensive end Drew Ott would fill out its defense.
The Hawkeyes should be stout on that side of the ball anyway.
Iowa suffered its first major loss in 2016 when the NCAA denied Ott's appeal for an extra year of eligibility because of a medical hardship. But the Hawkeyes should still have one of the best defenses in the Big Ten next fall, with seven starters back from a unit that allowed just 19 points a game last season.
Iowa, which went 12-2 and 8-0 in conference play last season, concluded spring practice with a scrimmage Saturday at Kinnick Stadium in which its defense outpaced its offense.
Iowa wide receiver Matt VandeBerg is tackled by defensive back Miles Taylor, left, after making a reception during the team's NCAA college football spring game, Saturday, April 23, 2016, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
The Associated Press
Iowa wide receiver Ryan Boyle (11) celebrates with teammate Nate Vejvoda after catching a touchdown pass during the team's NCAA college football spring game, Saturday, April 23, 2016, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
The Associated Press
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