Ranking Big Ten Programs by Recruiting Classes

7. Iowa Hawkeyes

The Iowa Hawkeyes didn’t fare too poorly in the Big Ten in 2016. They went 6-3 in conference play, but losses against Northwestern, Wisconsin and Penn State ruined any title hopes for them. They did finish the season 8-5 but a 30-3 loss to the Florida Gators in the Outback Bowl. The bowl loss marred wins over two ranked opponents to finish the year.

The Hawkeyes will need to replace senior quarterback C.J. Beathard and 1,000-yard rusher Leshun Daniels Jr. but that’s what recruiting is for. They signed 22 total commits to their 2017 recruiting class. In total, there was one five-star, one four-star, 18 three-star prospects and two two-star prospects, according to 247Sports. With their five-star prospect, the Hawkeyes defense gets a little boost.

Five-star strongside defensive end A.J. Epenesa is a 6-foot-5, 260-pound prospect that stands out in this year’s class. Epenesa ranks 29th in the nation, second by position and first out of the state of Illinois, according to 247Sports.  He recorded 59 total tackles, 14 tackles for loss and four sacks in his senior season at Edwardsville High School. He should push for a spot in the rotation on the Hawkeyes defense this fall.

Another key recruit Tristan Wirfs, one of two offensive tackle prospects in this recruiting class. Wirfs is four-star prospect out of Iowa rated 327th in the nation, 31st by position and second overall player in state, according to 247Sports. If he can catch on quickly, the 6-foot-5, 290-pound offensive tackle for push for a spot on the offensive line. They will have just six lineman on the roster for 2017.