Iowa's defense molding into nationally dominant unit in time for B1G play

The defense of Iowa continues to show its efficiency through the first four weeks of the 2022 season. Through the first four games of the season, Iowa possesses the top-ranked scoring defense in the nation (5.8).

With last night’s performance, Iowa’s defense is No. 1 nationally in scoring defense at 5.8 points per game.

They’ve allowed 23 points in four games, in that same time they’ve scored 16 points (two touchdowns, two safeties) — *not counting extra points off TDs* .

— Kennington Lloyd Smith III (@SkinnyKenny_) September 25, 2022

In the Week 1, 7-3 win over South Dakota State, the Hawkeyes’ accounted for two safeties.

In Week 4 at Rutgers, Iowa only allowed 361 total yards, with 61 coming from the running game. Iowa was able to score 2 defensive touchdowns with a 45-yard interception returned for a touchdown from Cooper DeJean, and a 30-yard fumble recovery returned for a touchdown from defensive back Kaevon Merriweather.

Iowa didn’t allow a touchdown in the Week 1 game against South Dakota State and in Week 3 against Nevada.

The defense of Iowa has accounted for 12 sacks, 19 pass breakups, and 8 turnovers, with 5 takeaways coming in the form of interceptions.