Report Card: Grading out each unit in the Iowa Hawkeyes’ win over Western Michigan
It wasn’t the prettiest win, but it was a win. In what was probably the most frustrating blowout you’ll see, the Iowa Hawkeyes took down Western Michigan, 41-10.
Despite the lopsided result, Iowa really did have to battle in this game. Early on, the Broncos tested them and actually led twice. Iowa was only up 14-10 at halftime.
Thanks to a great rushing performance, LeVar Woods being the best special teams coordinator in the nation, and the Ferentzes making good adjustments, Iowa was able to secure their first blowout victory of the season.
Let’s take a look at each unit. Here is a report card for the Hawkeyes in their Week 3 win that pushed them to 3-0 on the young season.
Offense
Offensive Grade: B+
Okay, so it’s really hard to determine an overall offensive grade for Iowa. Of course, they put up the most points this season by far with 41. The rushing attack was great. The line put together their best run-blocking performance in a few years, and Leshon Williams had his best game as a Hawkeye.
Kamari Moulton was forced into action due to injuries to Kaleb Johnson and Jaziun Patterson, and he made the most of his touches. I wouldn’t be surprised if Moulton still gets work once everyone’s back and healthy.
I hate to be this way after a big win, but we can’t ignore that passing performance by Cade McNamara. Against a defense that he should be carving up, just like the rushing attack did, he still looked horrendous.
I get that the knee is probably still affecting him, but that shouldn’t affect his decision making this much. He’s second-guessing every decision out there and is still making the wrong decisions. It has to get better once Iowa starts playing real opponents.
Defense
Defensive Grade: A-
I debated giving Iowa’s defense a B+, but why not give an A-? Sure, they let up a few more big plays than they should have, plays they wouldn’t have given up last year, but they still allowed only 10 points. They stepped up when it mattered. Take out some big plays and the defense pitched a heck of a performance. The Hawkeyes surrendered just 35 yards of total offense in the second half.
Special Teams
Special Teams Grade: A+
What more can be said about LeVar Woods and his special teams unit? It’s games like this that show why he should be the man to take over for Kirk Ferentz once he retires.
Cooper DeJean was phenomenal as a punt returner, and the Hawkeyes really look to have something in Kaden Wetjen as a kick returner. The Hawkeyes blocked a punt for a safety and neary got their hands on one early in the game as well.
Add in Tory Taylor being Tory Taylor and you have an elite unit.
Coaching
Coaching Grade: A+
This may be a hot take, but I’m giving a lot of credit to Kirk Ferentz and his staff for this one. They started out this game completely flat and then whipped them into shape for the second half. Brian Ferentz recognized that McNamara just didn’t have it, and leaned on the rushing attack. Great adjustment.
Overall
Overall Grade: A
There are still some shortcomings to this team, and of course, they’re the same as last year. The passing attack still just isn’t there. The rushing attack looked fantastic though despite entering the game down a few backs. You can’t complain much after a 41-10 win, though. Big game next week!
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