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Iowa’s Phil Parker says Hawkeyes increased intensity of practices ahead of Floyd of Rosedale rivalry
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Phil Parker can sense a change in Iowa’s defense entering the Floyd of Rosedale rivalry. After all, his defense remains 1 of the nation’s best in nearly every statistical category.
Parker told reporters Wednesday that he feels confident in the Hawkeyes’ preparation in terms of facing Minnesota. There’s been a sense of urgency ever since Iowa began its 3-game win streak.
“I think the kids are really playing hard practice-wise,” Parker told reporters via Zoom on Wednesday per Hawk Central. “I think we had a good day today, matter of fact. I think they put three good days together here for the Minnesota game here this weekend. I’m really pleased the way they work and the way they think … and we’re talking about achieving and being perfect. It’s hard to be perfect but we’re going to ask them to be and the better the chance they have to be perfect, they have a good chance to be very good.”
Statistically, Parker has the Hawkeyes playing near-flawless football. Iowa ranks 1st nationally in yards per play allowed (3.81), 3rd in total defense (260.7 yards per game) and 5th in scoring (13.9 points per game). In 10 games, the Hawkeyes have held 7 opponents to 10 points or less.
Parker said his players are up for the challenge when it comes to stopping running back Mohamed Ibrahim. In all 9 games, the senior has rushed for over 100 yards. His 18 rushing touchdowns also lead both the B1G and the FBS. Currently, Ibrahim is on an 18-game streak where he’s hit at least 100 yards on the ground.
Because of the stakes, Paker said the intensity in practice has picked up, crediting veteran linebacker Jack Campbell for setting the tone.
“They love the challenge,” Parker said. “And (Wednesday) was a prime example, I wanted to go out there and have a crisp practice and make sure that we kept everybody injury-free, obviously. But boy it was a violent game today, it was violent; at least practice was and that’s a good thing. That’s the only way they want to be and that’s when you know you have something pretty good and special.”
Kickoff from Huntington Bank Stadium is set for 4 p.m. E.T. Iowa will close out the season at Kinnick Stadium against Nebraska at 4 p.m. E.T.
Cole Thompson is a freelance writer for Saturday Tradition who has covered college football and the NFL for multiple websites. Thompson is currently based in Houston, Texas, and also can be heard daily on SportsMap National Radio's 'Just Sayin It' from 3am-6am.