Hawkeyes.org - 2010 FB Position Preview

by Dr. Jay
Hawkeyes.Org Editor

Starting today, I'll be previewing the 2010 Hawkeye Football team position-by-position. In this 10-part series, I'll detail each position by pointing out who's gone, who's returning, and who's new. Plus, I'll discuss where I feel the strengths of the team lie, and where the weak links are. Today's installment: Intro and Overview.

After a 9-0 start, an 11-2 overall record in 2009, and a BCS Orange Bowl Championship, things look rosy in Iowa City. Last season, Iowa finished in a 2nd place tie in the Big Ten (only an overtime FG shy of the outright title), and the Hawks are on everyone's radar to at least challenge for the Big Ten title this fall. Kirk Ferentz's gang won't be surprising anyone, and last year's wretchedly difficult road schedule is reversed this year, as all the other contenders must face Iowa in the friendly confines of Kinnick Stadium.

Iowa lost a total of 17 seniors from the 2009 squad, plus 2 juniors who declared early for the NFL draft. On the flipside, 21 new recruits will join the squad this fall, having signed national letters of intent in February. Despite the loss of those 17 seniors, the Hawks return 15 of 22 starters from that 11-2 team (17 of 24 if you include both kickers). It's easy to see why optimism runs high in the heartland.

Throughout this series, I'll be discussing the players at each position who are...
Movin' On: Leaving the program due to graduation, or going on to the NFL
Movin' Up: Elevating into a starting job, or much increased role in the rotation or on special teams
Movin' Over: Changing positions to help the overall team depth
Movin' In: Entering the program as a new High School recruit, Junior College player, or transfer player
Movin' Out: Leaving the program due to academics, transfer, injury, or other reasons

We'll get started on Monday next week with an easy position to discuss. Only one guy at a time, a short list of replacements, and the heir-apparent is a no-brainer.

Next up: Quarterback