After two consecutive wins over Big Ten’s “D” Teams, we are led to wonder what is next for Iowa Hawkeye football.  Are they really as impressive as they have begun to look?  There is no denying the fact that the Hawks look like they have finally started gelling as a team.  Will it be enough to salvage a respectable season, or are we doomed to more late-season disappointment?

As we have been saying all year, they Hawkeye football talent pool this year is undeniable.  The last two games would seem to indicate they have finally come together as a team behind coach Kirk Ferentz.  They would appear to have grown up by leaps and bounds over just the last few weeks.

The Iowa Hawkeyes next game with Illinois should set the tone for the remainder of the season.  Should the Hawks be able to come away with a win, they will be on a roll going into Penn State.  I can only imagine the implications of that game had the Hawks been undefeated- a scenario that at this point is only a cumulative 9 points from being a reality. 

Illinois football was a team I thought had a chance to be a real contender this year.  Although they have had almost as many ups and downs as Iowa, they look to have righted the ship against Indiana.  The Illinois vs. Wisconsin game this weekend should offer us more insight as to what Illinois team will be taking the field against Iowa.  Both teams are trying to salvage a respectable season.  Both teams as of now are coming off massive wins.  The Hawks have a bye week this week so at this point I would say anything can happen. 

The Hawkeyes have been looking like a shark that just got the scent of blood.  Everyone on that team realizes they are on the verge of being a real contender.  I think Iowa goes into Illinois with something to prove.  My (pre Wisconsin vs. Illinois) prediction goes to the Hawks 34-24.

When the Hawks win, Iowa City will be energized for Penn State as we have not seen in years.  Kirk suckered me in again- I will be making the trip back from Vegas for the game.  You will probably recognize me as the guy stumbling haphazardly from tailgate to tailgate!  Feel free to email if you are looking for us to come crash YOUR tailgate (or just need a very reasonably priced male exotic dancer for your next party!) 

In all seriousness- are the Hawks a better team than Penn State?  Probably not.  Hawkeye football is a notoriously good team when playing big games as the underdog.  With momentum on their side anything can happen!