Iowa’s defense was once again dominant in 2022.

But an offense stuck in quicksand kept the Hawkeyes (8-5, 5-4 B1G) from having a breakout year.

Phil Parker’s defense did its part. Iowa ranked 1st in the nation in yards per play (3.99) and 2nd in points allowed (13.3).

The offense was another story.

The Brian Ferentz-led unit ranked 129th out of 131 Division I teams in total offense. The offense was so inept, it led AD Gary Barta to institute a performance clause in Ferentz’ contract that everyone’s now aware of. The Hawks’ must average 25 points per game and win a minimum of 7 games for Ferentz’ contract to be renewed. Fairly simple metrics to meet.

But things could get complicated if QB Cade McNamara misses extended time with his leg injury.

The talent is there — on both sides of the ball — for Iowa to surpass Saturday Tradition’s Crystal Ball projection, capture the West and make a run at a B1G title. The Hawks need key guys to stay healthy and have breakout seasons.

Let’s take a peek at 5 players who will make or break the 2023 season for the Hawkeyes.

1. Cade McNamara – QB

No surprise here. The Michigan transfer was brought in to jumpstart Iowa’s meager offense. Things looked good in spring ball. It continued into fall until McNamara was injured scrambling on a run. Last week he described his status as “progressing.” Not exactly a rosy outlook as Iowa is set to host Utah State on Saturday.

McNamara knows how to lead and knows how to win. In 2021 he led the Wolverines to the College Football Playoff. He completed over 64% of his throws and had a 15/6 TD to INT ratio.

He’s a tremendous upgrade over Spencer Petras. But his health is currently a cause for concern. How much time will he miss, if any?

Getting a healthy McNamara into the lineup is key. He knows how to manage games and spread the ball around. Pair that with a top-end defense, and it’s safe to say his status is vitally important to the Hawks’ success.

2. Cooper DeJean – DB

While DeJean may not replicate the 3 INTs returned for TDs he had in 2022, the All-B1G DB will continue to impact games. His 2022 numbers were solid with 8 pass breakups and 5 picks.

DeJean is a stalwart on special teams as well as defense. The junior was the MVP of last year’s Music City Bowl, returning 3 punts for 42 yards and returning a pick for a score.

He was nearly single-handily responsible for the Hawks’ 24-10 win over Wisconsin. DeJean recorded 10 tackles and added a 32-yard interception return for a TD.

With Riley Moss and Kaevon Merriweather both gone, DeJean will anchor the back end of a salty defensive unit that looks to chew up opponents again in 2023.

3. Kaleb Johnson – RB

Johnson has star power. The sophomore RB averaged 5.1 yards per carry in 2022. With 4 starters back on the offensive line, look for Johnson to put up big numbers in 2023.

Johnson set the freshmen rushing record with 779 yards. He went for 200 in a win at Purdue. He showed nice burst and speed on a 44-yard TD scamper vs. Nebraska. He’s the 1st true freshman to rush for over 100 yards in a game since Tyler Goodson did it in 2019.

With McNamara leading a (hopefully) serviceable passing attack, it should open more opportunities for Johnson to again post big numbers.

4. Luke Lachey – TE

Lachey teamed with Sam LaPorta to combine for 86 catches and 1,055 yards a year ago. With LaPorta now in Detroit, Lachey slides into the top role at tight end.

Michigan transfer Erick All should team with Lachey to provide another potent 1-2 punch at the position. The Hawkeyes — and Ferentz — love to use their tight ends. Keeping Lachey healthy gives McNamara not only a big target (6-6, 253), but also a security blanket once the Hawks enter the red zone.

5. Deontae Craig – DL

Craig has a nose for the football and a knack for getting after the quarterback. Parker will need all of Craig’s 11 TFL and 6.5 sacks he garnered in 2022 once again.

Gone is Lukas Van Ness and his 13.5 sacks over the past 2 seasons. The Packers selected him with the 13th pick in the draft.

While Craig will team with veteran seniors up front, he’s the guy Parker will look to for leadership and playmaking ability.

Craig won’t shy away from big moments. His best game of 2022 was his 5-tackle, 1.5-sack performance against Wisconsin.