Iowa Football: 3 upperclassmen who must step up in 2022

Sep 11, 2021; Ames, Iowa, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes offensive lineman Jack Plumb (79) and punter Tory Taylor (9) celebrate with the Cy-Hawk trophy after defeating the Iowa State Cyclones at Jack Trice Stadium. The Hawkeyes won 27-17. Mandatory Credit: Reese Strickland-USA TODAY Sports /

3 of 4

ORLANDO, FLORIDA – JANUARY 01: Noah Shannon #99 of the Iowa Hawkeyes reacts during the second half against the Kentucky Wildcats in the Citrus Bowl at Camping World Stadium on January 01, 2022 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images) /

2. Noah Shannon, DT

The Iowa defense was one of the best in the country last season when it came to points allowed per game and yards allowed per game. A big part of the success on this side of the ball was the Hawkeyes’ ability to rush the passer and force bad passes. Zach VanValkenburg came off the edge to blow up plays in the backfield.

Noah Shannon has a very similar skillset when it comes to disrupting an offense. The redshirt senior is looking to make an impact this season at the defensive tackle spot. Shannon recorded 47 tackles and two sacks last year as a junior and has the ability to take a big jump this year.

With two young edge-rushers who will draw a lot of attention on the outside from opposing offensive lines, Shannon can thrive as a disruptor in the middle. This is a very good defensive line returning for Iowa and Shannon can play a major role in the success this season.

Home/Iowa Hawkeyes