Iowa Football: 3 takeaways from loss to Penn State

3. Iowa’s defense is still legit

Iowa came into the game with one of the best defenses in all of college football statistically, ranking in the top 5 in scoring defense, total yards allowed and total rushing yards. However, many were skeptical of those statistics due to the lack of talent most of Iowa’s opponents had. But, after watching this game, I still have no doubt in my mind that this Iowa defense is legitimately one of the best in all of college football.

Trace McSorley only had 230 yards of total offense and had a completion percentage of 44%. Penn State’s rushing attack, which had averaged well over 200 yards per game this season, was held to only 143 yards on the ground by Iowa’s stout front seven. The Iowa defense was also able to put a lot of pressure on McSorley as well, sacking him three times and forcing a hurried throw three more times as well.

Going forward this is an Iowa team that will still likely not be respected at a national level, but do so at your own peril. I know and many others know if Iowa gets an opportunity like this again, which will likely be in Indianapolis, they will not let it slip away like they did this game. Iowa will be a force to be reckoned with the rest of the season.