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Editor’s note: The second installment of a nine-part series that examines the Iowa football team in advance of the August 30 season kickoff.
For a few years, the narrative around Iowa football’s wide outs has remained unchanged, leaving supporters wanting more. Whether it’s a desire for a more explosive offense, more receiver use, or just more receiving touchdowns.
The request has been heard by the Hawkeyes. They have also been working to produce more.
Sam Phillips, a transfer from Chattanooga, is aware that a team’s persistent problems cannot be resolved by a single new player. In order to become a single piece in a complicated receiver puzzle, he has spent the offseason learning.
As an alternative, he is certain that this season, the Hawkeye team as a whole will advance.
Phillips stated during Iowa’s Kids Day that the entire receiver room would alter it, but he wouldn’t modify it himself.
After three seasons in the heart of FCS football, the former Mocs joined Iowa at the beginning of the season. In his final season at Chattanooga, Phillips led the Southern Conference in receiving yards (823 yards) and averaged 16.3 yards per catch, setting a rookie record of 44 receptions in a single season.
However, he saw an opportunity to contribute to something greater at Iowa during his final year of eligibility.
Phillips stated that his main goal is to adapt to the fast-paced nature of Big Ten football. It’s not much more physical than what he did against Conference USA programs, but it’s faster. The possibility of assuming more significant leadership responsibilities, particularly inside the position group, also appealed to him.
Phillips remarked, “I feel good all around.” Not only that, but I also sort of lead the younger guys because I’m a little older.
Phillips is not alone, though, in thinking that his teammates may alter the perception of the receivers. Kirk Ferentz, the head coach, expressed his satisfaction with the level of competition and depth that has surrounding training camp. In addition to freshmen and transfers like Phillips, the Hawkeyes have seven returning players this season.
Following his arm fracture, Jarriett Buie was cleared a week ago, and Ferentz reported that the receiver has been making progress ever since. Additionally, KJ Parker is ready to build on a strong spring and may see some action.
Additionally, Tim Lester is in his second year as offensive coordinator. Returning players like Buie, Jacob Gill, and Reece Vander Zee are more familiar with the playbook than they were at this time last year, but one offseason won’t miraculously end a new offensive coordinator’s learning pains.
Kaden Wetjen, who the head coach joked is attempting to be a junior rather than a senior, will also be with Ferentz. Despite not playing wide receiver last season, Wetjen excelled at returning kicks and punts. Wetjen’s quickness and agility, according to Ferentz, could easily convert into increased offensive output on the field.
More competition is being created, and there is a great deal of room for some high-energy assault.
According to Ferentz, they’re a good group at the moment. In addition to the younger individuals moving up the ladder, the elder folks are doing a great job.
Ferentz, however, is still of the opinion that the season opener will not make any judgments regarding the depth chart’s structure come conference play. In fact, during the first few weeks of the season, the coaching staff may be making decisions about the entire lineup.
During the team’s media day, Ferentz stated, “It’s kind of too close to call right now, but they’re all doing some good things, and we’ll see what it looks like over three weeks.” At least until you begin game-prepping a little, we won’t be making many major decisions. After that, you’ll need to start squeezing it down. However, it’s healthy competition, which is positive.
Ahead of this season, Ferentz and company may be best described as encouraging. During the team’s annual Kids Day, the receivers also showed some promise, which may assist convince people who wish to witness improvement firsthand.
Or just believe Phillips when he says it.
“We’re going to be fine,” Phillips stated. I swear.
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