One key stats puts the Iowa Hawkeyes’ defense among an elite trio this season
I don’t think there is any arguing how good the Iowa Hawkeyes’ defense has been this season. Over their last five games, their dominance has begun to show up. The last five games have seen this defense allow just 11 points per game.
They don’t let teams score. They may bend a little, but this unit bows up with the best of them in crunch time and in the red zone when it matters. Iowa’s defense doesn’t allow touchdowns and one key stat shows just how elite they are as one of three teams to have given up 10 or fewer touchdowns on the season.
Ben Stevens of SportsGrid dug into the Hawkeyes’ defense among other teams and found that only Iowa, Michigan, and Ohio State have allowed 10 or fewer touchdowns this year. Where it becomes even more impressive is that Iowa is the sole defensive unit that has been on the field for more than 600 snaps with 663 plays.
Only three (3) FBS teams have allowed 10 offensive TDs or less this season:
• Iowa
• Michigan
• Ohio StateOnly one of those defenses has been on the field for 600+ snaps this year:
• Iowa – 663 plays (11th most in CFB)
The Hawkeyes’ defensive dominance on display.
— Ben Stevens (@BenScottStevens) November 8, 2023
Not only does Iowa have to shut down opponents to win games as their offense has become one of the most anemic units in America, but they have to do it on short rest time and time again. This unit doesn’t get much rest and that makes their play all the more impressive.
Iowa’s defense makes its hay in the run game. On the year, they are tied with UCLA for the lead in the nation in fewest rushing touchdowns allowed with one single rushing touchdown surrendered. The Hawkeyes also allow just 3.27 yards per carry.
The passing game is no different. Iowa is tops in America in yards per completion allowed with just 8.53, nearly a whole yard better than second place.
This unit is putting together another magic act in 2023 at the hands of defensive coordinator Phil Parker. There are no signs of slowing down and this unit is the catalyst for Iowa’s run at the Big Ten West.
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