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Phil Parker, Iowa DC, praises 2 Hawkeye defenders for stepping up during Music City Bowl prep
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Phil Parker knows defense. It’s why Iowa ranks in the top 10 of nearly every metric each season, and oftentimes is the backbone of the program.
He also knows talent. There’s a reason names like Jack Campbell, Riley Moss and countless others find themselves at the top of draft wishlists each year. But while those two defenders might be the face of Hawkeye football, Parker gave praise to a pair of younger talents for their development in 2022.
During the Music City Bowl media session on Friday, Parker said that safety Xavier Nwankpa and linebacker Jay Higgins have been standouts in preparation for Iowa’s matchup against Kentucky. Nwankpa is expected to start at safety following the departure of Kaevon Merriweather, who opted out following the season finale loss to Nebraska.
Iowa DC Phil Parker said Xavier Nwankpa’s made the most strides of any DB during bowl prep. “It’s going to be his first start.”
— Scott Dochterman (@ScottDochterman) December 30, 2022
Phil Parker says that Jay Higgins has stepped up a lot as well throughout bowl prep.
— David Eickholt (@DavidEickholt) December 30, 2022
A former 5-star recruit, Nwankpa recorded four tackles in four games during the regular season as a contributor with the second-team unit. Higgin posted a career-best 38 tackles and saw more reps as a rotational player rather than a full-fledged starter.
Both players are expected to be starters in 2023, but could see extensive reps against the Wildcats in the Music City. Kickoff from Nissan Stadium is set for noon ET and will be nationally televised on ABC.
Cole Thompson is a freelance writer for Saturday Tradition who has covered college football and the NFL for multiple websites. Thompson is currently based in Houston, Texas, and also can be heard daily on SportsMap National Radio's 'Just Sayin It' from 3am-6am.