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BTN analyst Anthony Herron shares preseason pick for 2023 B1G West champion
By Rolando Rosa
Published:
The Big Ten West was one of the tightest divisions in college football last season, with Purdue edging out Iowa, Illinois, and Minnesota.
However, this season, the Big Ten Network’s Anthony Herron sees a clear-cut favorite.
Herron is giving the nod to Iowa as the west representative in the Big Ten title game. Iowa returns several key personnel pieces as well having a respected coaching staff anchored by veteran Kirk Ferentz.
“I believe they’re the favorite to win the West this season.”
Anthony Herron shares why @HawkeyeFootball is his preseason pick to get to Indy. ⤵️#B1Gtoday x @BigAntHerron pic.twitter.com/nCqXY9QBkr
— Big Ten Football (@B1Gfootball) August 18, 2023
“When we’re talking consistency, continuity, proven commodities, there’s no team in the west that has more of that this season than the Iowa Hawkeyes,” Herron said. “Between the leadership of Kirk Ferentz, coordinators at all positions, not just Brian [Ferentz] on offense…but the spectacular defense. The fantastic special teams led by Lavar Woods as well.”
Herron mentions that Wisconsin under new head coach Luke Fickell should make improvements but still only envisions Iowa as the cream of the crop in the west.
“I’m not really sure there’s a strong case to be made elsewhere,” Herron said. “…Iowa is the surest bet.”
Iowa finished last season in a 3-way tie for second in the division with Illinois and Minnesota.
The Hawkeyes begin this season with a home contest vs. Utah State on Sept. 2. Iowa’s Big Ten opener is a road contest at Penn State on Sept. 23.
Rolando Rosa brings his experience covering college football to Saturday Tradition. Follow him on Twitter @RolandoRosa3.