10 days to kickoff: 10 stats to know about Iowa Hawkeyes football
Facts don’t lie. But sometimes they may not tell the whole truth. Numbers often can be deceiving with how they are presented. The goal today is simply to present 10 pieces of statistical data that are related to the Iowa Hawkeyes.
Some are past stats that show how this team can perform better, others are trends that this team has been showing over the last half-decade or so, while some are just plain numbers. They include the offense, defense, special teams, and even coaching.
The first chance to see these stats in action will be when Utah State comes to Kinnick Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 2 to get the 2023 college football season underway. With kickoff at 11 a.m. CT, things get going bright and early for the Hawkeyes.
With just 10 days to go until the Iowa Hawkeyes kick off their season, here are 10 key stats to know that could be crucially important determining factors for their success during the 2023 season.
No. 10: 40 interceptions
Stat: Iowa has 40 interceptions over the last two seasons
The Hawkeyes are certified ballhawks. Over the last two seasons, they have taken the ball away with 40 interceptions. That average feels about right for the secondary group they have this year of Cooper DeJean, Jermari Harris, Quinn Schulte, and Xavier Nwankpa. Twenty interceptions could be in the cards.
No. 9: 2.9 yards
Stat: Iowa averaged 2.9 yards per carry in 2022
Iowa’s run game averaged a measly 2.9 yards per carry in 2022. That comes after a 3.4 yards per carry in 2021, which isn’t much better. Since 2017, Iowa has averaged over four yards per carry just twice. They have to surpass that number in 2023 to sustain drives.
No. 8: 700 yards
Stat: The last Iowa wide receiver to surpass 700 receiving yards was Ihmir Smith-Marsette in 2019 with 722
Iowa has not had a receiver or tight end surpass 700 receiving yards since Ihmir Smith-Marsette did so in 2019. Sam LaPorta put up 670 and 657 receiving yards to lead the Hawkeyes the last two years. Can Kaleb Brown, Luke Lachey, or Erick All go over the 700-yard mark in 2023?
No. 7: 30 sacks
Stat: Iowa has had 30-plus sacks every year since 2018
Iowa’s defensive line could be the strength of the defense this year. Since 2018, the Hawkeyes have surpassed 30 sacks each year, minus the shortened 2020 season. The high is 35 sacks in 2018, which feels within reach with this group.
No. 6: 60%
Stat: Iowa has not had a 60% completion percentage since 2015
The Hawkeyes have not completed 60% or more of their passes since 2015 when C.J. Beathard was at the helm. Cade McNamara should view this threshold as his floor and complete the easy passes. If Iowa can get a consistent passer, this team is dangerous.
No. 5: 85%
Stat: Iowa has converted 85% or more of their field goal tries in three of the last four seasons
Drew Stevens was an impact freshman last year. He made 88.9% of his field goal attempts. Since 2019, Iowa has been above 85% on field goals aside from a shortened 2020, where they were still 14-of-18. This is a key area for Iowa to remain successful in.
No. 4: 28 minutes
Stat: Iowa averaged 28 minutes of time of possession in 2022 (105th)
This stat tied into the previously mentioned running game that has to improve. Iowa didn’t maintain possession and relied too heavily on their defense. An emphasis must be put on controlling the tempo of the game and resting their defense in 2023.
No. 3: 6 touchdowns
Stat: Iowa led the nation with six defensive touchdowns in 2023
Tied with Western Kentucky, the Iowa defense poured in more than their fair share of points in 2022 with six scores. Replicating that in 2022 won’t be easy or even likely, but even half of it will be beneficial.
No. 2: 53 penalties
Stat: Iowa committed just 53 penalties in 2022
One thing about a Kirk Ferentz-coached team is that they will be disciplined. Iowa committed just 53 penalties in 2022, the fifth-lowest in the NCAA. The 2023 team is as experienced as any and won’t beat themselves.
No. 1: 25
Stat: 25 points per game
One of the most intriguing contract clauses in college football, the Iowa Hawkeyes, as a team, need to average 25 points per game. Brian Ferentz’s new contract clause states that he could be relieved of his duties without hitting this mark. This stat is one that lends itself to being trackable all season long.
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