A.J. Epenesa was a massive recruit coming into Iowa’s program back in 2017. Epenesa was a part of the Hawkeyes’ class that year and was a 5-star prospect.

He was rated as the No. 1 strong-side defensive end in the country that year and was the No. 27 player overall. Expectations were massive for Epenesa as a Hawkeye, and, understandably so.

He delivered the first couple seasons. Coming into this year, Epenesa was anticipated to be a potential first round 2020 NFL Draft pick — that is, if he decided to come out after his junior season.

Epenesa might do that, and he might be picked in the first round of next year’s draft. You obviously never know.

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But, one thing is for certain: Epenesa has dominated as of late:

The 24 tackles in four games alone as a defensive end is impressive. Add to the fact that 9.5 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks are in there and it makes it even that more intriguing. Forcing three fumbles in four games? That’s just absurd.

The point is that Epenesa has dominated as of late. Iowa closed its regular season with a 9-3 overall record and three straight wins. The Hawkeyes will certainly be bowling this postseason.