Iowa Football: 5 Bold Predictions for September

4. Matt Hankins comes alive

Two of the last three seasons, Iowa has had a cornerback come from obscurity and break into the national spotlight. 2015 had Desmond King making a record-tying eight interceptions, tied with Lou King and the immortal Nile Kinnick for the Iowa school record. Last season, Josh Jackson exploded onto the scene with five combined interceptions against Ohio State and Wisconsin, he also finished the year with eight interceptions.

With Jackson now gone to the Green Bay Packers, enter Matt Hankins. Hankins is a 6-foot-1, 185-pound cornerback from Lewisville, Texas and is Phil Parker’s quintessential cornerback. His ball skills are uncanny and is extremely athletic and has the length to combat taller receivers. I believe he’s the next stud defensive back to be produced by Phil Parker’s defense and that’s why Hankins will have three interceptions by the end of September.

Interceptions are a tricky thing, however, as it is based a lot on luck along with timing. However, quarterbacks will likely be eager to test Hankins as he is only a true sophomore. Hankins will make them pay for doing such a thing.