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Iowa DC Phil Parker compares Hawkeye defense to 2015 B1G West winning squad
By Paul Harvey
Published:
Iowa is off to a 5-0 start this season with sights set on even bigger things entering Week 6.
Entering the game with a No. 3 ranking, the Hawkeyes are looking to take down No. 4 Penn State at home. A win would further Kirk Ferentz’s squad as the overwhelming favorites in the B1G West and a true contender to win in Indianapolis and make the College Football Playoff.
On Wednesday, defensive coordinator Phil Parker met with the media to discuss his defense and preview the game against the Nittany Lions. Among other topics discussed, Parker was asked what sets this year’s defense apart from previous versions.
Parker highlighted the connection shared between players and coaches, something he also felt with Iowa’s 2015 team that captured the B1G West:
“When you have a defense like this and I’ve been around a couple of them where you’re at a point halfway through the season you’re 5-0, and you can see the connection,” said Parker, according to Hawkeye Insider. “The bond between not only the defensive unit, but the bond between the team and coaches. It’s really been a pleasure to do that. I see that in the 2015 team. I thought we had it. I thought the kids were really enjoying themselves and I guess everybody would say that they respected each other for what they do and the time they put in to be the best player they can be.”
In 2015, the Hawkeyes started 12-0 and were a goal-line stand away from beating Michigan State in the B1G Championship Game. That team allowed just 20.4 points per game.
This year, Iowa is allowing a mere 11.6 points per game, a mark that ranks second nationally. The Hawkeyes have yet to allow more than 17 points in a game, though Penn State will likely be the toughest matchup yet.
Saturday’s kickoff is set for 4 pm EST on FOX.
Paul is a lifelong fan and student of all things college football. He has been covering college football since 2017 and the B1G since 2018.