By: Pasquale Tartaro, GoPSUSports.com
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - Days away from the clash between two undefeated Big Ten programs, Penn State is focused on preparing for the challenges that the Iowa Hawkeyes present.
Head coach James Franklin spoke about the type of stringy defense that has allowed the Hawkeyes to lead the nation with 16 takeaways through five games: "Obviously, they do a good job of teaching it. I think their scheme allows them to capitalize on mistakes because they have their eyes on the quarterback, probably as much as anybody in college football, and they obviously do a great job of coaching it and drilling it and teaching it. I also think the length that they have at defensive tackle and defensive end also plays into that, because they're able to get their hands on some balls."
Iowa's 12 interceptions, and plus-12 turnover margin also sit atop the college football landscape. The Hawkeyes have also returned two interceptions – both by senior cornerback Riley Moss –and one fumble recovery for touchdowns.
Though Iowa is last in the Big Ten in terms of total offense per game (320 yards per game), it ranks fourth in the conference in points per game; head coach Kirk Ferentz's group values creating takeaways and optimal field position.
Overall, the Iowa defense has scored 68 points off turnovers, with 24 of them coming last week against Maryland.
Redshirt sophomore tight end Brenton Strange: "I think we've been able to protect the ball, just about little details, stuff we go over and how much emphasis we put on it in practice every single day, whether that be ball security drills… when we're doing seven-on-seven and catching the ball in traffic, just a bunch of little details that you do every single day."
Penn State's offense has turned it over three times all year – once in each of the last three games. The Nittany Lions are also plus-six in turnover margin, as Penn State's defense has managed to create their own abundance of takeaways as well.
Redshirt junior defensive end Nick Tarburton discussed the traits that make Iowa's group up front difficult to overcome: "Through the years, I think, this year especially, what sticks out to me is their athletic ability. They move well, and that's something that we've seen early with this (Iowa) offensive line."
This season, the Hawkeyes have rushed for 126 yards per game and 10 total touchdowns.
Redshirt senior quarterback Sean Clifford talked about how Penn State's season-opener at Wisconsin has helped prepare his team for the environment at Kinnick Stadium: "It definitely helps to get some road game experience. Kinnick is extremely loud and they have a good fan base and do a great job of bringing the energy which is great because that's what college football is all about. Every game is a great learning experience for me. You just have to work during practice to make sure you're ready for it."
The Nittany Lions, who are coming off of four-straight home games, will shift gears to Iowa City, where one of more challenging atmospheres in college football awaits them.
