Insight Bowl: Iowa vs. Missouri, Can Ricky Stanzi Be An American Hero?
By Ty Duffy
Both teams are disappointed to be here. Iowa was supposed to compete for a Big Ten title and did, for most of the season. However, four losses by a combined 11 points, including their final three saw them plummet from BCS contention. Missouri finished an unexpected 10-2, but a loss to Texas Tech cost them a place in the Big 12 Title Game.
Keeping a Drug House: Iowa’s all-time leading receiver Derrell Johnson-Koulianos was arrested on multiple drug charges three weeks ago after police raided his residence. Iowa’s leading rusher Adam Robinson, already suspended for the bowl game, was arrested for marijuana possession in Des Moines last night. The school admitted it found “flaws and inconsistencies” in its drug-testing regime.
The Contract: Kirk “Teflon” Ferentz will make $3.675 million per season until 2020. If he wins the bowl game, Iowa will extend the deal to 2025.
Absences: Both DJK and Robinson will be crucial losses for the Hawkeyes. Iowa will be less explosive passing and on special teams. They will be hindered running the ball and also may struggle to pick up blitzes and to provide viable check down options for Ricky Stanzi.
Old Rivals: The Missouri-Iowa “rivalry” dates back to 1892, but the schools have met only 12 times. Their last game was in 1910. Iowa refused to schedule further games with Missouri because the Tigers refused to let Iowa field a black player.
For Iowa to Win: Iowa needs its “talented defensive line” to affect games. If they can rush four, drop seven and force Blaine Gabbert to rush and improvise they have a chance. They also need Ricky Stanzi to make America proud by capitalizing on limited resources and avoiding mistakes.
For Missouri to Win: Maintain a high tempo. Iowa does not have extensive defensive depth. Spreading the field and peppering them relentlessly with short passing should lead to gasping and a big day for Blaine Gabbert.
Prediction: Missouri win. Can’t see Iowa pulling this one out. They have too many tangible losses and distractions. They also don’t have the best history playing night games in Arizona.
[Photo via Getty]