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Depth charts: Projected starters for No. 19 Iowa vs. Miami (Ohio)

Danny Lawhon, Hawk Central Published 4:03 p.m. CT Aug. 29, 2019 | Updated 12:44 p.m. CT Aug. 31, 2019

CLOSE

The big news this week finally came in surrounding Martin's immediate eligibility. Brian Powers, bpowers@dmreg.com

The weight of expectation is tangible for this year's Iowa football team.

A three-year starting quarterback. A bona fide stud on the defensive front. A freshly eligible hometown hero. A wide-open Big Ten West.

Can the 19th-ranked Hawkeyes find their way back to Indianapolis in Kirk Ferentz's 21st season? That conference chase begins next week. But first, there's the Week 1 rust to knock off.

And Miami of Ohio is traveling to Kinnick Stadium for a 6:40 p.m. FS1 game that will be hopefully free of pulse-quickening moments for Iowa fans.

Here are the projected starters heading into the opener.

OFFENSE

Quarterback: Nate Stanley (6-foot-4, 243 pounds, senior)

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) talks with Iowa offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) talks with Iowa offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) talks with Iowa offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) talks with Iowa offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) gestures towards the sideline as fullback Brady Ross (36) runs alongside him during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) gestures towards the sideline as fullback Brady Ross (36) runs alongside him during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) jukes a defender along the Minnesota sideline while running during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) jukes a defender along the Minnesota sideline while running during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) gets ready to call a play in the huddle during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) gets ready to call a play in the huddle during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) looks over his shoulder out to the sideline as Iowa center Tyler Linderbaum (65) steps back from the line of scrimmage during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) looks over his shoulder out to the sideline as Iowa center Tyler Linderbaum (65) steps back from the line of scrimmage during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) hands the ball off to running back Tyler Goodson (15) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) hands the ball off to running back Tyler Goodson (15) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) rolls out to pass during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) rolls out to pass during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) warms up during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) warms up during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) warms up during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) warms up during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) smiles after a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. The Hawkeyes defeated Minnesota, 23-19.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) smiles after a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. The Hawkeyes defeated Minnesota, 23-19. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws a pass during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws a pass during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) talks with Iowa offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz and Iowa quarterbacks coach Ken O'Keefe during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) talks with Iowa offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz and Iowa quarterbacks coach Ken O'Keefe during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley scrambles with the ball in the first quarter against Minnesota at Kinnick Stadiumin Iowa City on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019.

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley scrambles with the ball in the first quarter against Minnesota at Kinnick Stadiumin Iowa City on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) warms up during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) warms up during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Badgers defensive end Garrett Rand gets ready to tackle Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley on Saturday.

Badgers defensive end Garrett Rand gets ready to tackle Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley on Saturday. Tork Mason, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Badgers linebacker Zach Baun tries to get past Iowa offensive tackle Alaric Jackson on his way to quarterback Nate Stanley.

Badgers linebacker Zach Baun tries to get past Iowa offensive tackle Alaric Jackson on his way to quarterback Nate Stanley. Tork Mason, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Iowa's Nate Stanley throws during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Wisconsin Saturday, Nov. 9, 2019, in Madison, Wis. Wisconsin won 24-22. (AP Photo/Morry Gash)

Iowa's Nate Stanley throws during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Wisconsin Saturday, Nov. 9, 2019, in Madison, Wis. Wisconsin won 24-22. (AP Photo/Morry Gash) The Associated Press

Nov 9, 2019; Madison, WI, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws a pass during the first quarter against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium.

Nov 9, 2019; Madison, WI, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws a pass during the first quarter against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium. Jeff Hanisch/USA TODAY Sports

Nov 9, 2019; Madison, WI, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws a pass during warmups prior to the game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium.

Nov 9, 2019; Madison, WI, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws a pass during warmups prior to the game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium. Jeff Hanisch/USA TODAY Sports

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) passes the ball against Northwestern during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 26, 2019, in Evanston, Ill. (AP Photo/David Banks)

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) passes the ball against Northwestern during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 26, 2019, in Evanston, Ill. (AP Photo/David Banks) The Associated Press

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) passes against Northwestern during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 26, 2019, in Evanston, Ill. (AP Photo/David Banks)

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) passes against Northwestern during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 26, 2019, in Evanston, Ill. (AP Photo/David Banks) David Banks, AP

Oct 26, 2019; Evanston, IL, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) looks to pass into the end zone against the Northwestern Wildcats during the second half at Ryan Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports

Oct 26, 2019; Evanston, IL, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) looks to pass into the end zone against the Northwestern Wildcats during the second half at Ryan Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports Matt Marton, Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports

Oct 26, 2019; Evanston, IL, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) looks to throw against Northwestern Wildcats in the first half at Ryan Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports

Oct 26, 2019; Evanston, IL, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) looks to throw against Northwestern Wildcats in the first half at Ryan Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports Matt Marton, Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports

Oct 19, 2019; Iowa City, IA, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws a pass against the Purdue Boilermakers during the fourth quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Oct 19, 2019; Iowa City, IA, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws a pass against the Purdue Boilermakers during the fourth quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports Jeffrey Becker, Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Oct 19, 2019; Iowa City, IA, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws a pass against the Purdue Boilermakers during the fourth quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Oct 19, 2019; Iowa City, IA, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws a pass against the Purdue Boilermakers during the fourth quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports Jeffrey Becker, Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Oct 19, 2019; Iowa City, IA, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) and running back Tyler Goodson (15) celebrate after scoring a touchdown against the Purdue Boilermakers during the third quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Oct 19, 2019; Iowa City, IA, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) and running back Tyler Goodson (15) celebrate after scoring a touchdown against the Purdue Boilermakers during the third quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports Jeffrey Becker, Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Oct 19, 2019; Iowa City, IA, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) drops back to throw a pass against the Purdue Boilermakers during the first quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Oct 19, 2019; Iowa City, IA, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) drops back to throw a pass against the Purdue Boilermakers during the first quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports Jeffrey Becker, Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) looks to the sideline as time ticks down in the third quarter during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Purdue, Saturday, Oct., 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) looks to the sideline as time ticks down in the third quarter during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Purdue, Saturday, Oct., 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws a pass during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Purdue, Saturday, Oct., 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws a pass during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Purdue, Saturday, Oct., 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws a pass during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Purdue, Saturday, Oct., 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws a pass during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Purdue, Saturday, Oct., 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) gets a first down on a quarterback sneak off of block from Iowa offensive lineman Mark Kallenberger (71) and center Tyler Linderbaum (65) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Purdue, Saturday, Oct., 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) gets a first down on a quarterback sneak off of block from Iowa offensive lineman Mark Kallenberger (71) and center Tyler Linderbaum (65) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Purdue, Saturday, Oct., 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley fires a pass against Purdue on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley fires a pass against Purdue on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley calls the play in the second quarter against Purdue on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley calls the play in the second quarter against Purdue on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley is afforded time to throw the ball as the offensive line holds Purdue's defense at bay on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley is afforded time to throw the ball as the offensive line holds Purdue's defense at bay on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley hands the ball off to running back Toren Young in the second quarter against Purdue on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley hands the ball off to running back Toren Young in the second quarter against Purdue on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Oct 12, 2019; Iowa City, IA, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) has his pass altered by Penn State Nittany Lions defensive end Shaka Toney (18) during the third quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Oct 12, 2019; Iowa City, IA, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) has his pass altered by Penn State Nittany Lions defensive end Shaka Toney (18) during the third quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports Jeffrey Becker, Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Iowa running back Mekhi Sargent (10) takes a handoff from Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa running back Mekhi Sargent (10) takes a handoff from Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) points out defensive coverage during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) points out defensive coverage during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) looks to get a pass out as Iowa offensive lineman Alaric Jackson (77) blocks against Penn State defensive end Shaka Toney (18) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) looks to get a pass out as Iowa offensive lineman Alaric Jackson (77) blocks against Penn State defensive end Shaka Toney (18) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley (4) calls a play in the huddle in the third quarter against Penn State on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley (4) calls a play in the huddle in the third quarter against Penn State on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/For the Register

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley hands the ball off to running back Tyler Goodson against Penn State on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley hands the ball off to running back Tyler Goodson against Penn State on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/For the Register

Oct 5, 2019; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) points at Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jordan Glasgow (29) during the first quarter at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

Oct 5, 2019; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) points at Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jordan Glasgow (29) during the first quarter at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

Michigan linebacker Cameron McGrone (44) sacks Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) during the second half of an NCAA college football game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

Michigan linebacker Cameron McGrone (44) sacks Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) during the second half of an NCAA college football game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya) The Associated Press

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) breaks free from pressure by Michigan linebacker Khaleke Hudson (7) during the second half of an NCAA college football game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) breaks free from pressure by Michigan linebacker Khaleke Hudson (7) during the second half of an NCAA college football game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya) The Associated Press

Michigan defensive lineman Aidan Hutchinson pursues Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley during the second half of U-M's 10-3 win on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019, at Michigan Stadium.

Michigan defensive lineman Aidan Hutchinson pursues Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley during the second half of U-M's 10-3 win on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019, at Michigan Stadium. Kirthmon F. Dozier, Detroit Free Press

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) was under pressure all day against Michigan.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) was under pressure all day against Michigan. Tim Fuller, USA TODAY Sports

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley, center, throws a pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Middle Tennessee, Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley, center, throws a pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Middle Tennessee, Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall) The Associated Press

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) signals to teammates during a NCAA non conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Middle Tennessee State, Saturday, Sept., 28, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) signals to teammates during a NCAA non conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Middle Tennessee State, Saturday, Sept., 28, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) talks with Iowa offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz during a NCAA non conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Middle Tennessee State, Saturday, Sept., 28, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) talks with Iowa offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz during a NCAA non conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Middle Tennessee State, Saturday, Sept., 28, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley points out a player from Middle Tennessee before calling the snap in the first quarter at Kinnick Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019, in Iowa City.

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley points out a player from Middle Tennessee before calling the snap in the first quarter at Kinnick Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019, in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley scrambles with the ball in the first quarter against Middle Tennessee at Kinnick Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019, in Iowa City.

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley scrambles with the ball in the first quarter against Middle Tennessee at Kinnick Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019, in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa's Michael Ojemudia, from left, Kristian Welch, Brady Ross, and Nate Stanley walk to midfield with honorary captain Miguel Merrick during a NCAA non conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Middle Tennessee State, Saturday, Sept., 28, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa's Michael Ojemudia, from left, Kristian Welch, Brady Ross, and Nate Stanley walk to midfield with honorary captain Miguel Merrick during a NCAA non conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Middle Tennessee State, Saturday, Sept., 28, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) warms up before a NCAA non conference football game against Middle Tennessee State, Saturday, Sept., 28, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) warms up before a NCAA non conference football game against Middle Tennessee State, Saturday, Sept., 28, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

16. Iowa (3-0) | Last game: Defeated Iowa State, 18-17 | Previous ranking: 16.

16. Iowa (3-0) | Last game: Defeated Iowa State, 18-17 | Previous ranking: 16. Charlie Neibergall, AP

Iowa State linebacker O'Rien Vance (R-So.) (34) knocks the ball out of the hands of Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley (4) during the Cy-Hawk football game at Jack Trice Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 in Ames. Iowa would go on to defeat Iowa State 18-17.

Iowa State linebacker O'Rien Vance (R-So.) (34) knocks the ball out of the hands of Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley (4) during the Cy-Hawk football game at Jack Trice Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 in Ames. Iowa would go on to defeat Iowa State 18-17. Brian Powers/The Register

Iowa State defensive back Anthony Johnson (So.) (26) sacks Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley (4) during the Cy-Hawk football game at Jack Trice Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 in Ames. Iowa State took a 7-6 lead over Iowa into halftime.

Iowa State defensive back Anthony Johnson (So.) (26) sacks Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley (4) during the Cy-Hawk football game at Jack Trice Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 in Ames. Iowa State took a 7-6 lead over Iowa into halftime. Brian Powers/The Register

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley dives over Iowa State's Lawrence White in the fourth quarter on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames.

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley dives over Iowa State's Lawrence White in the fourth quarter on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames. Bryon Houlgrave, The Register

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley (4) passes during the Cy-Hawk football game at Jack Trice Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 in Ames. Iowa State took a 7-6 lead over Iowa into halftime.

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley (4) passes during the Cy-Hawk football game at Jack Trice Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 in Ames. Iowa State took a 7-6 lead over Iowa into halftime. Brian Powers/The Register

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley celebrates after running in a one-yard touchdown to put Iowa ahead of Iowa State in the fourth quarter on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames.

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley celebrates after running in a one-yard touchdown to put Iowa ahead of Iowa State in the fourth quarter on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames. Bryon Houlgrave, The Register

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley (4) avoids a tackle during the Cy-Hawk football game at Jack Trice Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 in Ames.

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley (4) avoids a tackle during the Cy-Hawk football game at Jack Trice Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 in Ames. Brian Powers/The Register

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley fires a pass in the first quarter against Iowa State on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames.

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley fires a pass in the first quarter against Iowa State on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames. Bryon Houlgrave, The Register

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley scrambles as he is chased by Iowa State defensive back Greg Eisworth in the first quarter on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames.

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley scrambles as he is chased by Iowa State defensive back Greg Eisworth in the first quarter on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames. Bryon Houlgrave, The Register

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley fires a pass in the first quarter against Iowa State on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames.

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley fires a pass in the first quarter against Iowa State on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames. Bryon Houlgrave, The Register

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley (4) looks for a hand off during the Cy-Hawk football game at Jack Trice Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 in Ames. A lightning strike forced a delay in the first quarter.

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley (4) looks for a hand off during the Cy-Hawk football game at Jack Trice Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 in Ames. A lightning strike forced a delay in the first quarter. Brian Powers/The Register

Iowa running back Toren Young (28) takes a handoff from quarterback Nate Stanley (4) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa running back Toren Young (28) takes a handoff from quarterback Nate Stanley (4) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) looks to pass while Rutgers defensive lineman Mike Tverdov (97) leaps over a blocker during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) looks to pass while Rutgers defensive lineman Mike Tverdov (97) leaps over a blocker during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Rutgers defensive lineman Willington Previlon (96) attempts to sack Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) after making it past Iowa center Tyler Linderbaum (65) and offensive lineman Landan Paulsen (68) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Rutgers defensive lineman Willington Previlon (96) attempts to sack Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) after making it past Iowa center Tyler Linderbaum (65) and offensive lineman Landan Paulsen (68) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) calls for a snap during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) calls for a snap during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) calls a play during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) calls a play during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws a pass during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws a pass during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) drops back to pass while offensive lineman Kyler Schott (64) blocks during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) drops back to pass while offensive lineman Kyler Schott (64) blocks during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa defensive back Michael Ojemudia (11) linebacker Kristian Welch (34) fullback Brady Ross (36) and quarterback Nate Stanley (4) walk to the center of the field for the coin toss with honorary captain Tom Hayes before a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa defensive back Michael Ojemudia (11) linebacker Kristian Welch (34) fullback Brady Ross (36) and quarterback Nate Stanley (4) walk to the center of the field for the coin toss with honorary captain Tom Hayes before a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley fires a pass against Rutgers on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019 at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley fires a pass against Rutgers on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019 at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave, The Register

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley hands the ball off to junior running back Toren Young on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019 at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley hands the ball off to junior running back Toren Young on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019 at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave, The Register

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley fakes a handoff to running back Mekhi Sargent in the second quarter against Rutgers on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019 at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley fakes a handoff to running back Mekhi Sargent in the second quarter against Rutgers on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019 at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave, The Register

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley approaches the huddle before calling a play in the second quarter against Rutgers on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019 at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley approaches the huddle before calling a play in the second quarter against Rutgers on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019 at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave, The Register

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) walks out to the field with teammates before a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) walks out to the field with teammates before a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley touches the helmet on a statue of Nile Kinnick before a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley touches the helmet on a statue of Nile Kinnick before a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) Iowa quarterback Peyton Mansell (2) and Iowa quarterback Connor Kapisak (11) walk out of the tunnel before a NCAA non conference football game, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) Iowa quarterback Peyton Mansell (2) and Iowa quarterback Connor Kapisak (11) walk out of the tunnel before a NCAA non conference football game, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) rushes during a NCAA non conference football game, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) rushes during a NCAA non conference football game, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley, center, throws a pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Miami of Ohio, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley, center, throws a pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Miami of Ohio, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall) The Associated Press

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley calls to his offense before taking the snap in the fourth quarter against Miami of Ohio at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019.

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley calls to his offense before taking the snap in the fourth quarter against Miami of Ohio at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019. Bryon Houlgrave, The Register

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley fires a pass in the first quarter against Miami of Ohio at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019.

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley fires a pass in the first quarter against Miami of Ohio at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019. Bryon Houlgrave, The Register

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley runs the ball for a first down in the first quarter against Miami of Ohio at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019.

Iowa senior quarterback Nate Stanley runs the ball for a first down in the first quarter against Miami of Ohio at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019. Bryon Houlgrave, The Register

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley poses for a photo during the team's NCAA college football media day, Friday, Aug. 9, 2019, in Iowa City, Iowa. (Zach Boyden-Holmes/The Des Moines Register via AP)

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley poses for a photo during the team's NCAA college football media day, Friday, Aug. 9, 2019, in Iowa City, Iowa. (Zach Boyden-Holmes/The Des Moines Register via AP) The Associated Press

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley warms up during a Hawkeyes football Kids Day scrimmage, Saturday, Aug. 10, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley warms up during a Hawkeyes football Kids Day scrimmage, Saturday, Aug. 10, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley throws a pass during a Hawkeyes football Kids Day scrimmage, Saturday, Aug. 10, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley throws a pass during a Hawkeyes football Kids Day scrimmage, Saturday, Aug. 10, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Nate Stanley stands for a photo during Hawkeye football media day Friday, Aug. 9, 2019.

Nate Stanley stands for a photo during Hawkeye football media day Friday, Aug. 9, 2019. Zach Boyden-Holmes/The Register

Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley is shown during a photo shoot unveiling the team's Oct. 12 alternate uniform vs. Penn State.

Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley is shown during a photo shoot unveiling the team's Oct. 12 alternate uniform vs. Penn State. Brian Ray, via HawkeyeSports.com / Special to the Register

Nate Stanley stands for a photo during Hawkeye football media day Friday, Aug. 9, 2019.

Nate Stanley stands for a photo during Hawkeye football media day Friday, Aug. 9, 2019. Zach Boyden-Holmes/The Register

Iowa offensive lineman Kyler Schott (64) and Cody Ince (73) get set before quarterback Nate Stanley (4) snaps the ball during a NCAA non conference football game, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa offensive lineman Kyler Schott (64) and Cody Ince (73) get set before quarterback Nate Stanley (4) snaps the ball during a NCAA non conference football game, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Jan 1, 2019; Tampa, FL, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws the ball against the Mississippi State Bulldogs during the second quarter in the 2019 Outback Bowl at Raymond James Stadium.

Jan 1, 2019; Tampa, FL, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws the ball against the Mississippi State Bulldogs during the second quarter in the 2019 Outback Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. Kim Klement, Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Jan 1, 2019; Tampa, FL, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) looks to pass during the first quarter against the Mississippi State Bulldogs in the 2019 Outback Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Douglas DeFelice-USA TODAY Sports

Jan 1, 2019; Tampa, FL, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) looks to pass during the first quarter against the Mississippi State Bulldogs in the 2019 Outback Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Douglas DeFelice-USA TODAY Sports Douglas DeFelice, Douglas DeFelice-USA TODAY Sports

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley arrives with the Iowa football team at Raymond James Stadium Jan. 1, 2019 in Tampa, Florida. Iowa takes on Mississippi State in the Outback Bowl.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley arrives with the Iowa football team at Raymond James Stadium Jan. 1, 2019 in Tampa, Florida. Iowa takes on Mississippi State in the Outback Bowl. POOL/Rodney White/The Register

Jan 1, 2019; Tampa, FL, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws the ball against the Mississippi State Bulldogs during the first quarter in the 2019 Outback Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Jan 1, 2019; Tampa, FL, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws the ball against the Mississippi State Bulldogs during the first quarter in the 2019 Outback Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports Kim Klement, Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

In this University of Iowa photo from Saturday's practice, Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley warms up. Stanley actually threw one pass late in Iowa's 30-3 Outback Bowl loss to Florida on Jan. 2, 2017. For more photos, visit HawkeyeSports.com.

In this University of Iowa photo from Saturday's practice, Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley warms up. Stanley actually threw one pass late in Iowa's 30-3 Outback Bowl loss to Florida on Jan. 2, 2017. For more photos, visit HawkeyeSports.com. Brian Ray, HawkeyeSports.com

Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) rides a tricycle on the ice during a contest against Mississippi State in the first intermission of the Tampa Bay Lightning game Thursday, December 27, 2018 at Amalie Arena.

Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) rides a tricycle on the ice during a contest against Mississippi State in the first intermission of the Tampa Bay Lightning game Thursday, December 27, 2018 at Amalie Arena. Brian Ray, Hawkeyesports.com

Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) during the team's first Outback Bowl Practice in Florida Thursday, December 27, 2018 at Tampa University.

Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) during the team's first Outback Bowl Practice in Florida Thursday, December 27, 2018 at Tampa University. Brian Ray, HawkeyeSports.com

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) runs a drill during a NCAA football practice on Monday, Dec. 17, 2018, at the Hansen Football Performance Center in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) runs a drill during a NCAA football practice on Monday, Dec. 17, 2018, at the Hansen Football Performance Center in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Nate Stanley carries a 16-9 record as an Iowa starter and 49 career touchdown passes into the Jan. 1 Outback Bowl.

Nate Stanley carries a 16-9 record as an Iowa starter and 49 career touchdown passes into the Jan. 1 Outback Bowl. Jeffrey Becker, USA TODAY Sports

Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley, left, drops back to pass as he is pressured by Nebraska Cornhuskers defensive lineman Khalil Davis during the second quarter at Kinnick Stadium.

Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley, left, drops back to pass as he is pressured by Nebraska Cornhuskers defensive lineman Khalil Davis during the second quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Jeffrey Becker, USA TODAY Sports

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley looks for a pass during the senior day match-up between the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Nebraska Cornhuskers on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium, in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley looks for a pass during the senior day match-up between the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Nebraska Cornhuskers on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium, in Iowa City. Kelsey Kremer/The Register

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) rushes during a Big Ten Conference NCAA football game on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) rushes during a Big Ten Conference NCAA football game on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley looks over the line of scrimmage before taking a snap during the first quarter against Nebraska.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley looks over the line of scrimmage before taking a snap during the first quarter against Nebraska. Jeffrey Becker, USA TODAY Sports

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley passes the ball during the senior day match-up between the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Nebraska Cornhuskers on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium, in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley passes the ball during the senior day match-up between the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Nebraska Cornhuskers on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium, in Iowa City. Kelsey Kremer/The Register

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley looks for a pass during the senior day match-up between the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Nebraska Cornhuskers on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium, in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley looks for a pass during the senior day match-up between the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Nebraska Cornhuskers on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium, in Iowa City. Kelsey Kremer/The Register

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley celebrates after making a touchdown scoring pass during the senior day match-up between the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Nebraska Cornhuskers on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium, in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley celebrates after making a touchdown scoring pass during the senior day match-up between the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Nebraska Cornhuskers on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium, in Iowa City. Kelsey Kremer/The Register

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) slides after rushing for a first down during a Big Ten Conference NCAA football game on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) slides after rushing for a first down during a Big Ten Conference NCAA football game on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) gestures at the line during a Big Ten Conference NCAA football game on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) gestures at the line during a Big Ten Conference NCAA football game on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) before a Big Ten Conference NCAA football game on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) before a Big Ten Conference NCAA football game on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) talks with reporters in front of portraits of Iowa Consensus All Americans during an Outback Bowl announcement press conference on Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, at the Hansen Football Performance Center in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) talks with reporters in front of portraits of Iowa Consensus All Americans during an Outback Bowl announcement press conference on Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, at the Hansen Football Performance Center in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Nov 17, 2018; Champaign, IL, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) sets up to pass during the first quarter against the Illinois Fighting Illini at Memorial Stadium.

Nov 17, 2018; Champaign, IL, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) sets up to pass during the first quarter against the Illinois Fighting Illini at Memorial Stadium. Mike Granse/USA TODAY Sports

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) drops back to pass during a Big Ten Conference football game on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) drops back to pass during a Big Ten Conference football game on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) tries to get a pass out while Northwestern defensive lineman Jordan Thompson (99) gets his hands up during a Big Ten Conference football game on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) tries to get a pass out while Northwestern defensive lineman Jordan Thompson (99) gets his hands up during a Big Ten Conference football game on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) rushes during a Big Ten Conference football game on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) rushes during a Big Ten Conference football game on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley, center, passes as he is pressured by Northwestern linebacker Nate Hall (32) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley, center, passes as he is pressured by Northwestern linebacker Nate Hall (32) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, in Iowa City, Iowa. Charlie Neibergall/AP

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) walks onto the field before a Big Ten Conference football game on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) walks onto the field before a Big Ten Conference football game on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Nov 3, 2018; West Lafayette, IN, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws a pass under pressure from the Purdue Boilermakers at Ross-Ade Stadium.

Nov 3, 2018; West Lafayette, IN, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws a pass under pressure from the Purdue Boilermakers at Ross-Ade Stadium. Sandra Dukes/USA TODAY Sports

Nov 3, 2018; West Lafayette, IN, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) sets up a play in the huddle at Ross-Ade Stadium.

Nov 3, 2018; West Lafayette, IN, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) sets up a play in the huddle at Ross-Ade Stadium. Sandra Dukes/USA TODAY Sports

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) drops back behind running back Toren Young (28) while playing against Purdue in the second half of an NCAA college football game in West Lafayette, Ind., Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) drops back behind running back Toren Young (28) while playing against Purdue in the second half of an NCAA college football game in West Lafayette, Ind., Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018. AJ Mast/AP

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws a pass as Purdue linebacker Derrick Barnes (55) leaps to defend against it in the first half of an NCAA college football game in West Lafayette, Ind., Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/AJ Mast)

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws a pass as Purdue linebacker Derrick Barnes (55) leaps to defend against it in the first half of an NCAA college football game in West Lafayette, Ind., Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/AJ Mast) The Associated Press

Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) drops back in the pocket during the second quarter against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium.

Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) drops back in the pocket during the second quarter against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium. Matthew OHaren, USA TODAY Sports

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) had trouble getting ample time to find his receivers, and as a result he hurried his throws in most situations in a 30-24 loss at Penn State.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) had trouble getting ample time to find his receivers, and as a result he hurried his throws in most situations in a 30-24 loss at Penn State. Justin K. Aller, Getty Images

Nate Stanley #4 of the Iowa Hawkeyes walks off the field after a 30-24 to the Penn State Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium on Saturday, October 27, 2018, in State College, Pennsylvania.

Nate Stanley #4 of the Iowa Hawkeyes walks off the field after a 30-24 to the Penn State Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium on Saturday, October 27, 2018, in State College, Pennsylvania. Dustin Satloff

Nate Stanley #4 of the Iowa Hawkeyes throws a pass against the Penn State Nittany Lions at of Beaver Stadium on Saturday, October 27, 2018, in State College, Pennsylvania.outside of Beaver Stadium on Saturday, October 27, 2018, in State College, Pennsylvania.

Nate Stanley #4 of the Iowa Hawkeyes throws a pass against the Penn State Nittany Lions at of Beaver Stadium on Saturday, October 27, 2018, in State College, Pennsylvania.outside of Beaver Stadium on Saturday, October 27, 2018, in State College, Pennsylvania. Dustin Satloff

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) is pressured by Penn State's Micah Parson (11) and Cam Brown (6) as he throws during the second half of an NCAA college football game in State College, Pa., Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018. Penn State won 30-24. (AP Photo/Chris Knight)

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) is pressured by Penn State's Micah Parson (11) and Cam Brown (6) as he throws during the second half of an NCAA college football game in State College, Pa., Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018. Penn State won 30-24. (AP Photo/Chris Knight) Chris Knight, AP

Nate Stanley #4 of the Iowa Hawkeyes throws a pass against the Penn State Nittany Lions at of Beaver Stadium on Saturday, October 27, 2018, in State College, Pennsylvania.outside of Beaver Stadium on Saturday, October 27, 2018, in State College, Pennsylvania.

Nate Stanley #4 of the Iowa Hawkeyes throws a pass against the Penn State Nittany Lions at of Beaver Stadium on Saturday, October 27, 2018, in State College, Pennsylvania.outside of Beaver Stadium on Saturday, October 27, 2018, in State College, Pennsylvania. Dustin Satloff

Nate Stanley #4 of the Iowa Hawkeyes before taking the snap from Keegan Render #69 of the Iowa Hawkeyes during a game against the Penn State Nittany Lions at of Beaver Stadium on Saturday, October 27, 2018, in State College, Pennsylvania.outside of Beaver Stadium on Saturday, October 27, 2018, in State College, Pennsylvania.

Nate Stanley #4 of the Iowa Hawkeyes before taking the snap from Keegan Render #69 of the Iowa Hawkeyes during a game against the Penn State Nittany Lions at of Beaver Stadium on Saturday, October 27, 2018, in State College, Pennsylvania.outside of Beaver Stadium on Saturday, October 27, 2018, in State College, Pennsylvania. Dustin Satloff

Penn State's Robert Windsor (54) sacks Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in State College, Pa., Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018. (AP Photo/Chris Knight)

Penn State's Robert Windsor (54) sacks Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in State College, Pa., Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018. (AP Photo/Chris Knight) The Associated Press

Penn State's John Reid (29) and Antonio Shelton (55) chase down Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in State College, Pa., Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018. (AP Photo/Chris Knight)

Penn State's John Reid (29) and Antonio Shelton (55) chase down Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in State College, Pa., Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018. (AP Photo/Chris Knight) The Associated Press

Oct 27, 2018; University Park, PA, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) runs the ball during the second quarter against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O'Haren-USA TODAY Sports

Oct 27, 2018; University Park, PA, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) runs the ball during the second quarter against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O'Haren-USA TODAY Sports Matthew OHaren, Matthew O'Haren-USA TODAY Sports

Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley looks to make a handoff during the first quarter against the Maryland Terrapins on Oct. 20, 2018 at Kinnick Stadium.

Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley looks to make a handoff during the first quarter against the Maryland Terrapins on Oct. 20, 2018 at Kinnick Stadium. Jeffrey Becker, USA TODAY Sports

Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley looks to pass during the third quarter on Oct. 20, 2018, against the Maryland Terrapins at Kinnick Stadium.

Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley looks to pass during the third quarter on Oct. 20, 2018, against the Maryland Terrapins at Kinnick Stadium. Jeffrey Becker, USA TODAY Sports

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) calls out defensive coverage before taking a snap from Iowa center Keegan Render (69) during an NCAA Big Ten conference football game on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) calls out defensive coverage before taking a snap from Iowa center Keegan Render (69) during an NCAA Big Ten conference football game on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) looks to pass while Iowa running back Toren Young (28) blocks Maryland linebacker Nnamdi Egbuaba (31) during an NCAA Big Ten conference football game on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) looks to pass while Iowa running back Toren Young (28) blocks Maryland linebacker Nnamdi Egbuaba (31) during an NCAA Big Ten conference football game on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) rolls out to pass during an NCAA Big Ten conference football game on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) rolls out to pass during an NCAA Big Ten conference football game on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) scrambles from Maryland linebacker Mbi Tanyi (50) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) scrambles from Maryland linebacker Mbi Tanyi (50) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall) The Associated Press

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley directs a play against Maryland on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley directs a play against Maryland on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave, Bryon Houlgrave

Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley sets his offense during the first quarter against the Maryland Terrapins at Kinnick Stadium.

Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley sets his offense during the first quarter against the Maryland Terrapins at Kinnick Stadium. Jeffrey Becker, USA TODAY Sports

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley touches the helmet of a Nile Kinnick statue before an NCAA Big Ten football game on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley touches the helmet of a Nile Kinnick statue before an NCAA Big Ten football game on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Nate Stanley was more than willing to air it out in Bloomington, Indiana. The Iowa junior quarterback attempted 12 deep shots among his 33 attempts, and finished with 320 yards passing.

Nate Stanley was more than willing to air it out in Bloomington, Indiana. The Iowa junior quarterback attempted 12 deep shots among his 33 attempts, and finished with 320 yards passing. Andy Lyons, Getty Images

Nate Stanley scrambles on his way to throwing a spectacular touchdown pass to Nick Easley during Saturday's 42-16 win at Indiana.

Nate Stanley scrambles on his way to throwing a spectacular touchdown pass to Nick Easley during Saturday's 42-16 win at Indiana. Andy Lyons, Getty Images

Fullback Austin Kelly (46), a senior, is surrounded by happy teammates (clockwise from left: Kyle Groeneweg, Nate Stanley and T.J. Hockenson) after he scored on a 6-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter. That was Stanley's sixth TD pass of the game.

Fullback Austin Kelly (46), a senior, is surrounded by happy teammates (clockwise from left: Kyle Groeneweg, Nate Stanley and T.J. Hockenson) after he scored on a 6-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter. That was Stanley's sixth TD pass of the game. Andy Lyons, Getty Images

Indiana Hoosiers defensive lineman James Head Jr. (6) gets a hit on Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) during the game against Iowa at Memorial Stadium in Bloomington, Ind., on Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018.

Indiana Hoosiers defensive lineman James Head Jr. (6) gets a hit on Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) during the game against Iowa at Memorial Stadium in Bloomington, Ind., on Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018. Bobby Goddin/For IndyStar

Indiana defensive back Marcelino Ball (42) tries to sack Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018, in Bloomington, Ind. (AP Photo/Doug McSchooler)

Indiana defensive back Marcelino Ball (42) tries to sack Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018, in Bloomington, Ind. (AP Photo/Doug McSchooler) Doug McSchooler, AP

Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) huddles up with his team against the Indiana Hoosiers during the fourth quarter at Memorial Stadium.

Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) huddles up with his team against the Indiana Hoosiers during the fourth quarter at Memorial Stadium. Brian Spurlock / USA TODAY Sports

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) calls a play out to the offense during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Indiana, Saturday, Oct. 13 2018, in Bloomington, Ind. (AP Photo/Doug McSchooler)

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) calls a play out to the offense during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Indiana, Saturday, Oct. 13 2018, in Bloomington, Ind. (AP Photo/Doug McSchooler) Doug McSchooler, AP

Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws a pass against the Indiana Hoosiers during the first quarter at Memorial Stadium .

Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws a pass against the Indiana Hoosiers during the first quarter at Memorial Stadium . Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

Oct 6, 2018; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) drops back for a pass in the first half against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at TCF Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

Oct 6, 2018; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) drops back for a pass in the first half against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at TCF Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports Jesse Johnson, Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

Iowa State linebacker Willie Harvey, left, pressures Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, in Iowa City, Iowa. Iowa won 13-3.

Iowa State linebacker Willie Harvey, left, pressures Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, in Iowa City, Iowa. Iowa won 13-3. Matthew Putney/AP

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) looks to pass while Wisconsin defenders close in during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) looks to pass while Wisconsin defenders close in during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Members of the Wisconsin defense celebrate after pulling in an interception against Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Members of the Wisconsin defense celebrate after pulling in an interception against Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa junior quarterback Nate Stanley calls a play to his offense against Wisconsin in the first quarter on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa junior quarterback Nate Stanley calls a play to his offense against Wisconsin in the first quarter on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa junior quarterback Nate Stanley fires a pass against Wisconsin on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa junior quarterback Nate Stanley fires a pass against Wisconsin on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley sets up a play during the Hawkeyes' game against Northern Illinois at Kinnick Stadium on Satuday, Sept. 1, 2018.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley sets up a play during the Hawkeyes' game against Northern Illinois at Kinnick Stadium on Satuday, Sept. 1, 2018. David Scrivner/For the Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley throws down field during the Hawkeyes' game against Northern Illinois at Kinnick Stadium on Satuday, Sept. 1, 2018.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley throws down field during the Hawkeyes' game against Northern Illinois at Kinnick Stadium on Satuday, Sept. 1, 2018. David Scrivner/For the Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley is pictured during the Hawkeyes' game against Northern Illinois at Kinnick Stadium on Satuday, Sept. 1, 2018.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley is pictured during the Hawkeyes' game against Northern Illinois at Kinnick Stadium on Satuday, Sept. 1, 2018. David Scrivner/For the Press-Citizen

Iowa junior quarterback Nate Stanley scrambles against Northern Illinois on Saturday, Sept. 1, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa junior quarterback Nate Stanley scrambles against Northern Illinois on Saturday, Sept. 1, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa junior quarterback Nate Stanley fires a pass against Northern Illinois on Saturday, Sept. 1, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa junior quarterback Nate Stanley fires a pass against Northern Illinois on Saturday, Sept. 1, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Sep 15, 2018; Iowa City, IA, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws a pass during the first quarter against the Northern Iowa Panthers at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Sep 15, 2018; Iowa City, IA, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nate Stanley (4) throws a pass during the first quarter against the Northern Iowa Panthers at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) rushes during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) rushes during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) gestures at the line during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) gestures at the line during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley speaks with offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz during a time out against Northern Iowa on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley speaks with offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz during a time out against Northern Iowa on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) runs from Northern Iowa linebacker Duncan Ferch (39) during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) runs from Northern Iowa linebacker Duncan Ferch (39) during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall) The Associated Press

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) runs to the sideline during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) runs to the sideline during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) gestures at the line during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) gestures at the line during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa junior quarterback Nate Stanley warms up prior to kickoff against Northern Iowa on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa junior quarterback Nate Stanley warms up prior to kickoff against Northern Iowa on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa State defensive end Matt Leo (89) pressures Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Matthew Putney)

Iowa State defensive end Matt Leo (89) pressures Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Matthew Putney) The Associated Press

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley jogs on the field before an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Matthew Putney)

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley jogs on the field before an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Matthew Putney) The Associated Press

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) talks to teammates during the Cy-Hawk NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) talks to teammates during the Cy-Hawk NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) looks to pass while offensive lineman Alaric Jackson (77) protects the pocket during the Cy-Hawk NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) looks to pass while offensive lineman Alaric Jackson (77) protects the pocket during the Cy-Hawk NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) passes during the Cy-Hawk NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) passes during the Cy-Hawk NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) takes a snap from offensive lineman Keegan Render (69) while offensive lineman Ross Reynolds (59) gets set during the Cy-Hawk NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) takes a snap from offensive lineman Keegan Render (69) while offensive lineman Ross Reynolds (59) gets set during the Cy-Hawk NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley adjusts his shoulder pads after scrambling for a first down run against Iowa State on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley adjusts his shoulder pads after scrambling for a first down run against Iowa State on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley hands the ball out to a running back against Iowa State on Saturday, Sept. 9, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley hands the ball out to a running back against Iowa State on Saturday, Sept. 9, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley fires a throw against Iowa State on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley fires a throw against Iowa State on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) takes a snap from Iowa offensive lineman Keegan Render (69) during the Cy-Hawk NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) takes a snap from Iowa offensive lineman Keegan Render (69) during the Cy-Hawk NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) hands off a ball to Iowa running back Mekhi Sargent (10) during the Cy-Hawk NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) hands off a ball to Iowa running back Mekhi Sargent (10) during the Cy-Hawk NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) dives towards the side line during the Cy-Hawk NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) dives towards the side line during the Cy-Hawk NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) calls to teammates at the line during the Cy-Hawk NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) calls to teammates at the line during the Cy-Hawk NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley winds back to pass the ball against Iowa State on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley winds back to pass the ball against Iowa State on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

In front of the home crowd in a game that should finish under the lights, quarterback Nate Stanley (4) and running back Toren Young (28) should be part of a crisper offensive performance than they showed in Week 1.

In front of the home crowd in a game that should finish under the lights, quarterback Nate Stanley (4) and running back Toren Young (28) should be part of a crisper offensive performance than they showed in Week 1. Jeffrey Becker, USA TODAY Sports

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) looks to pass while offensive lineman Tristan Wirfs (74) gets a block against Anthony Nelson (98) during a Kids Day practice on Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) looks to pass while offensive lineman Tristan Wirfs (74) gets a block against Anthony Nelson (98) during a Kids Day practice on Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley looks to the sideline during a Kids Day practice on Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley looks to the sideline during a Kids Day practice on Saturday, Aug. 11, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley throws a ball during Iowa football media day on Friday, Aug. 10, 2018, in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley throws a ball during Iowa football media day on Friday, Aug. 10, 2018, in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley tosses a ball around during Iowa football media day on Friday, Aug. 10, 2018, in Iowa City.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley tosses a ball around during Iowa football media day on Friday, Aug. 10, 2018, in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa's Nate Stanley (4) passes during the first half of their football game against Purdue at Kinnick Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2017, in Iowa City. The Hawkeyes take a 9-7 lead into halftime

Iowa's Nate Stanley (4) passes during the first half of their football game against Purdue at Kinnick Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2017, in Iowa City. The Hawkeyes take a 9-7 lead into halftime Brian Powers/The Register

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley fires a pass against Nebraska on Friday, Nov. 24, 2017, at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln, Neb.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley fires a pass against Nebraska on Friday, Nov. 24, 2017, at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln, Neb. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa sophomore quarterback Nate Stanley is sacked by Boston College defensive end Zach Allen during the 2017 Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium in Bronx, New York on Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2017.

Iowa sophomore quarterback Nate Stanley is sacked by Boston College defensive end Zach Allen during the 2017 Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium in Bronx, New York on Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2017. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Nate Stanley makes a pass during open practice at Kinnick Stadium Friday, April 20, 2018.

Nate Stanley makes a pass during open practice at Kinnick Stadium Friday, April 20, 2018. Zach Boyden-Holmes/The Register

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley calls a play against Wyoming at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Sept. 2, 2017.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley calls a play against Wyoming at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Sept. 2, 2017. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa sophomore quarterback Nate Stanley (4) passes the ball during the first half of their football game at Jack Trice Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017, in Ames.

Iowa sophomore quarterback Nate Stanley (4) passes the ball during the first half of their football game at Jack Trice Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017, in Ames. Brian Powers/The Register

Iowa sophomore quarterback Nate Stanley throws a pass during warmups prior to kickoff against Wyoming at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Sept. 2, 2017.

Iowa sophomore quarterback Nate Stanley throws a pass during warmups prior to kickoff against Wyoming at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Sept. 2, 2017. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Nate Stanley makes a pass during open practice at Kinnick Stadium Friday, April 20, 2018.

Nate Stanley makes a pass during open practice at Kinnick Stadium Friday, April 20, 2018. Zach Boyden-Holmes/The Register

Iowa sophomore quarterback Nate Stanley (4) passes the ball during the first half of their football game at Jack Trice Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017, in Ames.

Iowa sophomore quarterback Nate Stanley (4) passes the ball during the first half of their football game at Jack Trice Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017, in Ames. Brian Powers/The Register

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley is sacked by the Boston College defense during the 2017 Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium in Bronx, New York on Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2017.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley is sacked by the Boston College defense during the 2017 Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium in Bronx, New York on Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2017. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa's Nate Stanley (4) makes a handoff during the first half of their football game against Purdue at Kinnick Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2017, in Iowa City. The Hawkeyes take a 9-7 lead into halftime

Iowa's Nate Stanley (4) makes a handoff during the first half of their football game against Purdue at Kinnick Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2017, in Iowa City. The Hawkeyes take a 9-7 lead into halftime Brian Powers/The Register

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley has 22 touchdown passes with just four interceptions this season in his first year as a starter. The Hawkeyes' school record for TDs in a season is 27 by Chuck Long in 1985.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley has 22 touchdown passes with just four interceptions this season in his first year as a starter. The Hawkeyes' school record for TDs in a season is 27 by Chuck Long in 1985. Charlie Neibergall, AP

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley has been incredibly efficient on first downs lately; it's time to unleash the true sophomore against Ohio State.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley has been incredibly efficient on first downs lately; it's time to unleash the true sophomore against Ohio State. David Scrivner, Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa's Nate Stanley (4) hasn't had enough opportunities to pass on first down.

Iowa's Nate Stanley (4) hasn't had enough opportunities to pass on first down. Brian Powers, The Register

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley faced 19 blitzes against Michigan State, but even three-man rushes hurt the Hawkeyes in a 17-10 loss inside Spartan Stadium.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley faced 19 blitzes against Michigan State, but even three-man rushes hurt the Hawkeyes in a 17-10 loss inside Spartan Stadium. Duane Burleson, Getty Images

Despite missing some deep balls this season, Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley has thrown 12 touchdowns vs. one interception through four games.

Despite missing some deep balls this season, Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley has thrown 12 touchdowns vs. one interception through four games. Jeffrey Becker/USA TODAY Sports

Nate Stanley extends a handoff to Akrum Wadley (25), with fullback Drake Kulick (45) and offensive right tackle Tristan Wirfs (not pictured) ahead. When Iowa fullbacks were in Saturday's game against Illinois, the Hawkeyes gained 261 yards.

Nate Stanley extends a handoff to Akrum Wadley (25), with fullback Drake Kulick (45) and offensive right tackle Tristan Wirfs (not pictured) ahead. When Iowa fullbacks were in Saturday's game against Illinois, the Hawkeyes gained 261 yards. Jeffrey Becker, USA TODAY Sports

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley scrambles out of the pocket during the Hawkeyes' game against No. 4 Penn State at Kinnick Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017.

Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley scrambles out of the pocket during the Hawkeyes' game against No. 4 Penn State at Kinnick Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017. David Scrivner/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Nov 11, 2017; Madison, WI, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nathan Stanley (4) looks to pass during the first quarter against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Nov 11, 2017; Madison, WI, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nathan Stanley (4) looks to pass during the first quarter against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports Jeff Hanisch / USA TODAY Sports

Nov 11, 2017; Madison, WI, USA; Wisconsin Badgers defensive end Conor Sheehy (94) and linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel (17) sack Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nathan Stanley (4) during the second quarter at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Nov 11, 2017; Madison, WI, USA; Wisconsin Badgers defensive end Conor Sheehy (94) and linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel (17) sack Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nathan Stanley (4) during the second quarter at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports Jeff Hanisch / USA TODAY Sports

Nov 11, 2017; Madison, WI, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nathan Stanley (4) hands the football off to running back Akrum Wadley (25) during the first quarter against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Nov 11, 2017; Madison, WI, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nathan Stanley (4) hands the football off to running back Akrum Wadley (25) during the first quarter against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports Jeff Hanisch / USA TODAY Sports

Nov 11, 2017; Madison, WI, USA; Wisconsin Badgers linebacker Leon Jacobs (32) tackles Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nathan Stanley (4) during the third quarter at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Nov 11, 2017; Madison, WI, USA; Wisconsin Badgers linebacker Leon Jacobs (32) tackles Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nathan Stanley (4) during the third quarter at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports Jeff Hanisch / USA TODAY Sports

Oct 21, 2017; Evanston, IL, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nathan Stanley (4) throws the ball against the Northwestern Wildcats during the first quarter at Ryan Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

Oct 21, 2017; Evanston, IL, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Nathan Stanley (4) throws the ball against the Northwestern Wildcats during the first quarter at Ryan Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports David Banks, David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

Sophomore Nathan Stanley was listed atop Iowa's depth chart at quarterback Monday. But, make no mistake, coach Kirk Ferentz said, he's still battling with junior Tyler Wiegers for the starting job. The two will have the next month to make their cases.

Sophomore Nathan Stanley was listed atop Iowa's depth chart at quarterback Monday. But, make no mistake, coach Kirk Ferentz said, he's still battling with junior Tyler Wiegers for the starting job. The two will have the next month to make their cases. Brian Powers/The Register

Quarterbacks coach Ken O'Keefe, right, talks with quarterback Nathan Stanley, left, during Iowa's open practice on April 7 at Valley Stadium in West Des Moines.

Quarterbacks coach Ken O'Keefe, right, talks with quarterback Nathan Stanley, left, during Iowa's open practice on April 7 at Valley Stadium in West Des Moines. Michael Zamora, The Register

Nathan Stanley played in seven Iowa football as a freshman. Is the 6-foot-5, 235-pounder ready to take the reins at quarterback this season? That's the most important storyline of spring practices, which begin Wednesday.

Nathan Stanley played in seven Iowa football as a freshman. Is the 6-foot-5, 235-pounder ready to take the reins at quarterback this season? That's the most important storyline of spring practices, which begin Wednesday. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa freshman quarterback Nathan Stanley made big steps in his first season, and will compete with Tyler Wiegers and Drew Cook this spring for the starting job in 2017.

Iowa freshman quarterback Nathan Stanley made big steps in his first season, and will compete with Tyler Wiegers and Drew Cook this spring for the starting job in 2017. David Scrivner, Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nathan Stanley completed his first career pass Saturday against Iowa State. It was for 2 yards to fellow freshman Noah Fant.

Iowa quarterback Nathan Stanley completed his first career pass Saturday against Iowa State. It was for 2 yards to fellow freshman Noah Fant. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa quarterbacks C.J. Beathard, left, and Nathan Stanley run drills at the indoor practice facility on Thursday, Dec. 22, 2016.

Iowa quarterbacks C.J. Beathard, left, and Nathan Stanley run drills at the indoor practice facility on Thursday, Dec. 22, 2016. David Scrivner/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Nathan Stanley (4) entered Saturday's game with Iowa leading, 38-21. The true freshman handed off four times and passed once (incomplete).

Nathan Stanley (4) entered Saturday's game with Iowa leading, 38-21. The true freshman handed off four times and passed once (incomplete). David Scrivner, Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa quarterback Nathan Stanley calls for the snap during the Hawkeyes' game against Miami (Ohio) at Kinnick Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 3, 2016.

Iowa quarterback Nathan Stanley calls for the snap during the Hawkeyes' game against Miami (Ohio) at Kinnick Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 3, 2016. David Scrivner / Iowa City Press-Citizen

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Running back: Mekhi Sargent (5-11, 223, junior)

Tight end: Nate Wieting (6-4, 250, sr.)

Fullback: Brady Ross (6-0, 246, sr.)

Wide receiver: Brandon Smith (6-2, 218, jr.)

Oct 19, 2019; Iowa City, IA, USA; Purdue Boilermakers cornerback Kenneth Major (2) and cornerback Cam Allen (18) tackle Iowa Hawkeyes wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) during the fourth quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Oct 19, 2019; Iowa City, IA, USA; Purdue Boilermakers cornerback Kenneth Major (2) and cornerback Cam Allen (18) tackle Iowa Hawkeyes wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) during the fourth quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports Jeffrey Becker, Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) runs down the sideline after pulling in a catch as Purdue's Cory Trice (23) and Brennan Thieneman (38) defend during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Purdue, Saturday, Oct., 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) runs down the sideline after pulling in a catch as Purdue's Cory Trice (23) and Brennan Thieneman (38) defend during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Purdue, Saturday, Oct., 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa junior receiver Brandon Smith takes the ball down the sidelines against Purdue on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa junior receiver Brandon Smith takes the ball down the sidelines against Purdue on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa receiver Brandon Smith pulls down a reception in the fourth quarter against Purdue on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa receiver Brandon Smith pulls down a reception in the fourth quarter against Purdue on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa receiver Brandon Smith is brought down by the Purdue defense in the fourth quarter on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa receiver Brandon Smith is brought down by the Purdue defense in the fourth quarter on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa junior receiver Brandon Smith rumbles through the Purdue defense in the fourth quarter on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa junior receiver Brandon Smith rumbles through the Purdue defense in the fourth quarter on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa running back Tyler Goodson, top, congratulates wide receiver Brandon Smith on his touchdown during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Penn State, Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, in Iowa City, Iowa. Penn State won 17-12. (AP Photo/Matthew Putney)

Iowa running back Tyler Goodson, top, congratulates wide receiver Brandon Smith on his touchdown during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Penn State, Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, in Iowa City, Iowa. Penn State won 17-12. (AP Photo/Matthew Putney) The Associated Press

Receivers Brandon Smith, left, and Nico Ragaini celebrate after Smith scored a touchdown in the fourth quarter against Penn State on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Receivers Brandon Smith, left, and Nico Ragaini celebrate after Smith scored a touchdown in the fourth quarter against Penn State on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa junior wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) celebrates with receiver Nico Ragaini after Smith scored a touchdown late in the game against Penn State on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa junior wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) celebrates with receiver Nico Ragaini after Smith scored a touchdown late in the game against Penn State on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/For the Register

Iowa junior wide receiver Brandon Smith lands in the end zone for a touchdown late in the game against Penn State on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa junior wide receiver Brandon Smith lands in the end zone for a touchdown late in the game against Penn State on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/For the Register

Iowa junior receiver Brandon Smith lands in the end zone for a touchdown late in the game against Penn State on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa junior receiver Brandon Smith lands in the end zone for a touchdown late in the game against Penn State on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/For the Register

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) pulls in a rolling touchdown pass in the second half during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) pulls in a rolling touchdown pass in the second half during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) pulls in a rolling touchdown pass in the second half during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) pulls in a rolling touchdown pass in the second half during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) pulls in a rolling touchdown pass in the second half during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) pulls in a rolling touchdown pass in the second half during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) pulls in a rolling touchdown pass in the second half during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) pulls in a rolling touchdown pass in the second half during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) pulls in a rolling touchdown pass in the second half during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) pulls in a rolling touchdown pass in the second half during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) pulls in a rolling touchdown pass in the second half during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) pulls in a rolling touchdown pass in the second half during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) pulls in a rolling touchdown pass in the second half during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) pulls in a rolling touchdown pass in the second half during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa Hawkeyes defensive end Chauncey Golston (57) and wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) react after a sack during the first quarter against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Kinnick Stadium.

Iowa Hawkeyes defensive end Chauncey Golston (57) and wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) react after a sack during the first quarter against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Kinnick Stadium. Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Iowa junior wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) jumps over Iowa State wide receiver Sean Shaw Jr. (R-Fr.) (2) during the Cy-Hawk football game at Jack Trice Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 in Ames. Iowa would go on to defeat Iowa State 18-17.

Iowa junior wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) jumps over Iowa State wide receiver Sean Shaw Jr. (R-Fr.) (2) during the Cy-Hawk football game at Jack Trice Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 in Ames. Iowa would go on to defeat Iowa State 18-17. Brian Powers/The Register

Iowa junior wide receiver Brandon Smith hurdles Iowa State sophomore defensive back Datrone Young in the third quarter on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames.

Iowa junior wide receiver Brandon Smith hurdles Iowa State sophomore defensive back Datrone Young in the third quarter on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames. Bryon Houlgrave, The Register

Iowa junior receiver Brandon Smith is pushed out of bounds by Iowa State defensive back Anthony Johnson in the second quarter on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames.

Iowa junior receiver Brandon Smith is pushed out of bounds by Iowa State defensive back Anthony Johnson in the second quarter on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames. Bryon Houlgrave, The Register

Iowa's Brandon Smith (12) is joined by center Tyler Linderbaum (65) and a host of teammates after his 9-yard touchdown catch in the second quarter of the Hawkeyes' 38-14 win against Miami.

Iowa's Brandon Smith (12) is joined by center Tyler Linderbaum (65) and a host of teammates after his 9-yard touchdown catch in the second quarter of the Hawkeyes' 38-14 win against Miami. Matthew Holst, Getty Images

Former Iowa and current Miami of Ohio cornerback Manny Rugamba pushes Iowa receiver Brandon Smith out of bounds saving a touchdown in the first quarter at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019. Smith would later score the Hawkeyes' first touchdown of the 2019 season.

Former Iowa and current Miami of Ohio cornerback Manny Rugamba pushes Iowa receiver Brandon Smith out of bounds saving a touchdown in the first quarter at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019. Smith would later score the Hawkeyes' first touchdown of the 2019 season. Bryon Houlgrave, The Register

Iowa wide receiver Oliver Martin, center, celebrates with teammates Nate Wieting, left, and Brandon Smith, right, after catching a touchdown pass during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Miami of Ohio, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019, in Iowa City, Iowa. Iowa won 38-14. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

Iowa wide receiver Oliver Martin, center, celebrates with teammates Nate Wieting, left, and Brandon Smith, right, after catching a touchdown pass during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Miami of Ohio, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019, in Iowa City, Iowa. Iowa won 38-14. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall) The Associated Press

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) celebrates with teammates after catching a touchdown pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Miami of Ohio, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) celebrates with teammates after catching a touchdown pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Miami of Ohio, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall) The Associated Press

Miami of Ohio defensive back Emmanuel Rugamba (5) breaks up a pass intended for Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

Miami of Ohio defensive back Emmanuel Rugamba (5) breaks up a pass intended for Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall) The Associated Press

Iowa junior wide receiver Brandon Smith celebrates after scoring a touchdown against Miami of Ohio in the second quarter at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019.

Iowa junior wide receiver Brandon Smith celebrates after scoring a touchdown against Miami of Ohio in the second quarter at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019. Bryon Houlgrave, The Register

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during a NCAA non conference football game, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during a NCAA non conference football game, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa junior wide receiver Brandon Smith celebrates after pulling down a touchdown pass against Miami of Ohio in the second quarter at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019.

Iowa junior wide receiver Brandon Smith celebrates after pulling down a touchdown pass against Miami of Ohio in the second quarter at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019. Bryon Houlgrave, The Register

Iowa junior wide receiver Brandon Smith pulls down a touchdown pass over Miami of Ohio defensive back Manny Rugamba in the second quarter at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019.

Iowa junior wide receiver Brandon Smith pulls down a touchdown pass over Miami of Ohio defensive back Manny Rugamba in the second quarter at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019. Bryon Houlgrave, The Register

Iowa junior wide receiver Brandon Smith pulls down a touchdown pass over Miami of Ohio defensive back Manny Rugamba in the second quarter at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019.

Iowa junior wide receiver Brandon Smith pulls down a touchdown pass over Miami of Ohio defensive back Manny Rugamba in the second quarter at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019. Bryon Houlgrave, The Register

Nico Ragaini, Ihmir Smith-Marsette, Brandon Smith, and Tyrone Tracy, Jr. stand for a photo during Hawkeye football media day Friday, Aug. 9, 2019.

Nico Ragaini, Ihmir Smith-Marsette, Brandon Smith, and Tyrone Tracy, Jr. stand for a photo during Hawkeye football media day Friday, Aug. 9, 2019. Zach Boyden-Holmes/The Register

Iowa Hawkeyes wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) during the team's first Outback Bowl Practice in Florida Thursday, December 27, 2018 at Tampa University.

Iowa Hawkeyes wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) during the team's first Outback Bowl Practice in Florida Thursday, December 27, 2018 at Tampa University. Brian Ray, HawkeyeSports.com

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) celebrates after catching a touchdown pass during a Big Ten Conference NCAA football game on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) celebrates after catching a touchdown pass during a Big Ten Conference NCAA football game on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) walks onto the field before a Big Ten Conference NCAA football game on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) walks onto the field before a Big Ten Conference NCAA football game on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa's Brandon Smith runs with the ball in the first half of a NCAA college football game against Illinois, Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018, in Champaign, Ill.

Iowa's Brandon Smith runs with the ball in the first half of a NCAA college football game against Illinois, Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018, in Champaign, Ill. Holly Hart/AP

Brandon Smith is out against Northwestern.

Brandon Smith is out against Northwestern. Matthew OHaren, USA TODAY Sports

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith is more comfortable as a sophomore, which has resulted in a bevy of big catches.

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith is more comfortable as a sophomore, which has resulted in a bevy of big catches. Matthew Holst, Getty Images

Oct 27, 2018; University Park, PA, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) runs with the ball during the fourth quarter against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Iowa 30-24. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O'Haren-USA TODAY Sports

Oct 27, 2018; University Park, PA, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) runs with the ball during the fourth quarter against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Iowa 30-24. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O'Haren-USA TODAY Sports Matthew OHaren, Matthew O'Haren-USA TODAY Sports

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) blocks Maryland defensive back Deon Jones (14) during an NCAA Big Ten conference football game on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) blocks Maryland defensive back Deon Jones (14) during an NCAA Big Ten conference football game on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith, right, celebrates with teammates after catching a 10-yard touchdown pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Maryland, Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith, right, celebrates with teammates after catching a 10-yard touchdown pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Maryland, Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall) The Associated Press

Iowa's Brandon Smith pulls in a touchdown pass in the end zone against Maryland on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa's Brandon Smith pulls in a touchdown pass in the end zone against Maryland on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave, The Register

Members of the Iowa offense celebrate after Brandon Smith pulled in a touchdown pass in the end zone against Maryland on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Members of the Iowa offense celebrate after Brandon Smith pulled in a touchdown pass in the end zone against Maryland on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave, The Register

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) catches a pass as he's defended by Indiana defensive back Andre Brown Jr. (14) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018, in Bloomington, Ind. (AP Photo/Doug McSchooler)

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) catches a pass as he's defended by Indiana defensive back Andre Brown Jr. (14) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018, in Bloomington, Ind. (AP Photo/Doug McSchooler) The Associated Press

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith controls the ball against Minnesota's defensive back Terell Smith during an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 6, 2018, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Stacy Bengs)

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith controls the ball against Minnesota's defensive back Terell Smith during an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 6, 2018, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Stacy Bengs) The Associated Press

Oct 6, 2018; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) pushes for a first down after catching a pass against Minnesota Golden Gophers defensive back Chris Williamson in the first quarter at TCF Bank Stadium.

Oct 6, 2018; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) pushes for a first down after catching a pass against Minnesota Golden Gophers defensive back Chris Williamson in the first quarter at TCF Bank Stadium. Jesse Johnson/USA TODAY Sports

Iowa offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz high-fives Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz high-fives Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) comes down with a ball during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) comes down with a ball during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa wide receiver Nick Easley (84) celebrates with teammate Brandon Smith (12) after catching a 14-yard touchdown pass during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Northern Iowa, Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

Iowa wide receiver Nick Easley (84) celebrates with teammate Brandon Smith (12) after catching a 14-yard touchdown pass during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Northern Iowa, Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall) The Associated Press

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) gets tackled by Iowa State defensive back D'Andre Payne (1) during the Cy-Hawk NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) gets tackled by Iowa State defensive back D'Andre Payne (1) during the Cy-Hawk NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa's Brandon Smith, left, Nick Easley, center, and Ihmir Smith-Marsette, right, pose for a photo during the Iowa Football media day on Friday, Aug. 10, 2018 in Iowa City.

Iowa's Brandon Smith, left, Nick Easley, center, and Ihmir Smith-Marsette, right, pose for a photo during the Iowa Football media day on Friday, Aug. 10, 2018 in Iowa City. Brian Powers/The Register

After catching three balls for 15 yards as a true freshman, Brandon Smith is expected to take a big step forward in his second season as a Hawkeye.

After catching three balls for 15 yards as a true freshman, Brandon Smith is expected to take a big step forward in his second season as a Hawkeye. Zach Boyden-Holmes, The Register

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) tries to make a reception over defensive back Michael Ojemudia (11) during the team's NCAA college football spring scrimmage Friday, April 20, 2018, in Iowa City, Iowa. The pass was incomplete. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

Iowa wide receiver Brandon Smith (12) tries to make a reception over defensive back Michael Ojemudia (11) during the team's NCAA college football spring scrimmage Friday, April 20, 2018, in Iowa City, Iowa. The pass was incomplete. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall) The Associated Press

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Wide receiver: Ihmir Smith-Marsette (6-1, 183, jr.)

Left tackle: Alaric Jackson (6-6, 320, jr.)

Left guard: Landan Paulsen (6-5, 305, sr.)

Center: Tyler Linderbaum (6-3, 286, freshman)

Right guard: Levi Paulsen (6-5, 305, sr.) OR Cole Banwart (6-4, 300, jr.)

Right tackle: Tristan Wirfs (6-5, 322, jr.)

CLOSE

Iowa's No. 1 tight end this year is Nate Wieting, who could be an every-down type player for the Hawkeyes. Chad Leistikow, Hawk Central

DEFENSE

Defensive end: Chauncey Golston (6-5, 270, jr.)

Defensive end: A.J. Epenesa (6-6, 280, jr.)

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) sacks Minnesota quarterback Tanner Morgan (2) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) sacks Minnesota quarterback Tanner Morgan (2) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa defensive end Joe Evans (13) celebrates with Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) after a sack during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa defensive end Joe Evans (13) celebrates with Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) after a sack during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) celebrates after a stop with linebacker Barrington Wade (35) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) celebrates after a stop with linebacker Barrington Wade (35) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa defensive lineman Cedrick Lattimore (95) celebrates a stop with teammates Brady Reiff (91) and A.J. Epenesa (94) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa defensive lineman Cedrick Lattimore (95) celebrates a stop with teammates Brady Reiff (91) and A.J. Epenesa (94) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa junior defensive end A.J. Epenesa gets to Minnesota quarterback Tanner Morgan to cause Morgan to fumble the ball in the third quarter at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019.

Iowa junior defensive end A.J. Epenesa gets to Minnesota quarterback Tanner Morgan to cause Morgan to fumble the ball in the third quarter at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa junior defensive end A.J. Epenesa knocks the ball away from Minnesota quarterback Tanner Morgan in the third quarter at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019.

Iowa junior defensive end A.J. Epenesa knocks the ball away from Minnesota quarterback Tanner Morgan in the third quarter at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa sacks Minnesota quarterback Tanner Morgan in the fourth quarterback at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa sacks Minnesota quarterback Tanner Morgan in the fourth quarterback at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa adjusts his helmet after sacking Minnesota quarterback Tanner Morgan in the fourth quarterback at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa adjusts his helmet after sacking Minnesota quarterback Tanner Morgan in the fourth quarterback at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Minnesota Golden Gophers quarterback Tanner Morgan (2) is sacked by Iowa Hawkeyes defensive ends A.J. Epenesa (94) and Joe Evans (13) during the fourth quarter at Kinnick Stadium.

Minnesota Golden Gophers quarterback Tanner Morgan (2) is sacked by Iowa Hawkeyes defensive ends A.J. Epenesa (94) and Joe Evans (13) during the fourth quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Jeffrey Becker, USA TODAY Sports

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) and Iowa defensive lineman Chauncey Golston (57) pressure Minnesota quarterback Tanner Morgan (2) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) and Iowa defensive lineman Chauncey Golston (57) pressure Minnesota quarterback Tanner Morgan (2) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game, Saturday, Nov., 16, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Wisconsin quarterback Jack Cown is stripped of the ball by Iowa's defensive end A.J. Epenesa in the first quarter. The Hawkeyes recovered the fumble at UW's 16 but eventually had to settle for a field goal.

Wisconsin quarterback Jack Cown is stripped of the ball by Iowa's defensive end A.J. Epenesa in the first quarter. The Hawkeyes recovered the fumble at UW's 16 but eventually had to settle for a field goal. Mark Hoffman, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) warms up before a game against Northwestern an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 26, 2019, in Evanston, Ill. (AP Photo/David Banks)

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) warms up before a game against Northwestern an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 26, 2019, in Evanston, Ill. (AP Photo/David Banks) David Banks, AP

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) walks off the field with teammate Geno Stone (9) after an NCAA college football game against Purdue, Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, in Iowa City, Iowa. Iowa won 26-20. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) walks off the field with teammate Geno Stone (9) after an NCAA college football game against Purdue, Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, in Iowa City, Iowa. Iowa won 26-20. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall) Charlie Neibergall, AP

Purdue quarterback Jack Plummer (13) evades a tackle from Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Purdue, Saturday, Oct., 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Purdue quarterback Jack Plummer (13) evades a tackle from Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Purdue, Saturday, Oct., 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) hurries Purdue quarterback Jack Plummer (13) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Purdue, Saturday, Oct., 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) hurries Purdue quarterback Jack Plummer (13) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Purdue, Saturday, Oct., 19, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) walks off the field with teammate Geno Stone (9) after an NCAA college football game against Purdue, Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, in Iowa City, Iowa. Iowa won 26-20. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) walks off the field with teammate Geno Stone (9) after an NCAA college football game against Purdue, Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, in Iowa City, Iowa. Iowa won 26-20. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall) The Associated Press

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) gets blocked by Penn State offensive lineman Rasheed Walker (53) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) gets blocked by Penn State offensive lineman Rasheed Walker (53) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) looks to the sideline during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) looks to the sideline during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) attempts to sack Penn State quarterback Sean Clifford (14) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) attempts to sack Penn State quarterback Sean Clifford (14) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) hurries Penn State quarterback Sean Clifford (14) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) hurries Penn State quarterback Sean Clifford (14) during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Penn State quarterback Sean Clifford reaches back for a wild snap as Iowa's A.J. Epenesa makes his move toward the ball on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Penn State quarterback Sean Clifford reaches back for a wild snap as Iowa's A.J. Epenesa makes his move toward the ball on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/For the Register

Iowa junior defensive end A.J. Epenesa hits Penn State quarterback Sean Clifford on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa junior defensive end A.J. Epenesa hits Penn State quarterback Sean Clifford on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/For the Register

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) warms up before a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) warms up before a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Penn State, Saturday, Oct., 12, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) sacks Michigan quarterback Shea Patterson (2) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) sacks Michigan quarterback Shea Patterson (2) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya) The Associated Press

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) smiles while looking to the sideline during a NCAA non conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Middle Tennessee State, Saturday, Sept., 28, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) smiles while looking to the sideline during a NCAA non conference football game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Middle Tennessee State, Saturday, Sept., 28, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa State quarterback Brock Purdy (15) is tackled by Iowa Austin Schulte (74) and A.J. Epenesa (94) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, in Ames, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

Iowa State quarterback Brock Purdy (15) is tackled by Iowa Austin Schulte (74) and A.J. Epenesa (94) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, in Ames, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall) The Associated Press

Iowa State sophomore quarterback Brock Purdy barely gets the ball away before getting pummeled by Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa in the third quarter on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames.

Iowa State sophomore quarterback Brock Purdy barely gets the ball away before getting pummeled by Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa in the third quarter on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames. Bryon Houlgrave, The Register

Iowa State running back Kene Nwangwu (R-Jr.) (3) is tackled by Iowa junior defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) during the Cy-Hawk football game at Jack Trice Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 in Ames. Iowa would go on to defeat Iowa State 18-17.

Iowa State running back Kene Nwangwu (R-Jr.) (3) is tackled by Iowa junior defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) during the Cy-Hawk football game at Jack Trice Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 in Ames. Iowa would go on to defeat Iowa State 18-17. Brian Powers/The Register

Iowa wide receiver Ihmir Smith-Marsette, left, celebrates with defensive lineman Chauncey Golston and defensive end A.J. Epenesa as they carry the CyHawk trophy off the field after a 18-17 win over Iowa State on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames.

Iowa wide receiver Ihmir Smith-Marsette, left, celebrates with defensive lineman Chauncey Golston and defensive end A.J. Epenesa as they carry the CyHawk trophy off the field after a 18-17 win over Iowa State on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames. Bryon Houlgrave, The Register

Iowa junior defensive end A.J. Epenesa battles Iowa State's Julian Good-Jones on the line in the second quarter on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames.

Iowa junior defensive end A.J. Epenesa battles Iowa State's Julian Good-Jones on the line in the second quarter on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames. Bryon Houlgrave, The Register

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) gets ready before a snap during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) gets ready before a snap during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa's A.J. Epenesa, from left, Cedrick Lattimore and Nick Niemann celebrate after a stop during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa's A.J. Epenesa, from left, Cedrick Lattimore and Nick Niemann celebrate after a stop during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) celebrates after a sack during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) celebrates after a sack during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Rutgers, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

A.J. Epenesa, right, chases down Miami quarterback Brett Gabbert during the Hawkeyes' 38-14 win Saturday night.

A.J. Epenesa, right, chases down Miami quarterback Brett Gabbert during the Hawkeyes' 38-14 win Saturday night. Matthew Holst, Getty Images

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) chases down Miami of Ohio quarterback Brett Gabbert (5) during a NCAA non conference football game, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) chases down Miami of Ohio quarterback Brett Gabbert (5) during a NCAA non conference football game, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa Hawkeyes defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) reacts after a force to fumble the ball against the Mississippi State Bulldogs during the second quarter in the 2019 Outback Bowl at Raymond James Stadium.

Iowa Hawkeyes defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) reacts after a force to fumble the ball against the Mississippi State Bulldogs during the second quarter in the 2019 Outback Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) strips the ball from Mississippi State quarterback Nick Fitzgerald (7) causing a fumble during the first half of the Outback Bowl NCAA college football game, Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. Iowa recovered the fumble. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) strips the ball from Mississippi State quarterback Nick Fitzgerald (7) causing a fumble during the first half of the Outback Bowl NCAA college football game, Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. Iowa recovered the fumble. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara) The Associated Press

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa celebrates with the team after their victory over Mississippi State at the Outback Bowl Tues., Jan. 1, 2019, at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. Iowa defeated Mississippi State 27-22.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa celebrates with the team after their victory over Mississippi State at the Outback Bowl Tues., Jan. 1, 2019, at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. Iowa defeated Mississippi State 27-22. Rodney White/The Register

Jan 1, 2019; Tampa, FL, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) forces Mississippi State Bulldogs quarterback Nick Fitzgerald (7) to fumble to ball during the second quarter in the 2019 Outback Bowl at Raymond James Stadium.

Jan 1, 2019; Tampa, FL, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) forces Mississippi State Bulldogs quarterback Nick Fitzgerald (7) to fumble to ball during the second quarter in the 2019 Outback Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. Kim Klement, Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa sacks and forces a fumble on Mississippi State's quarterback Nick Fitzgerald in the first half at the Outback Bowl Tues., Jan. 1, 2019, at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. Iowa takes a 17-6 lead over Miss. St. into halftime.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa sacks and forces a fumble on Mississippi State's quarterback Nick Fitzgerald in the first half at the Outback Bowl Tues., Jan. 1, 2019, at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. Iowa takes a 17-6 lead over Miss. St. into halftime. POOL/Rodney White/The Register

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) tackles Nebraska quarterback Adrian Martinez during a Big Ten Conference NCAA football game on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) tackles Nebraska quarterback Adrian Martinez during a Big Ten Conference NCAA football game on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) celebrates a sack with Iowa defensive lineman Cedrick Lattimore (95) during a Big Ten Conference NCAA football game on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) celebrates a sack with Iowa defensive lineman Cedrick Lattimore (95) during a Big Ten Conference NCAA football game on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Nebraska quarterback Adrian Martinez (2) runs from Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

Nebraska quarterback Adrian Martinez (2) runs from Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall) The Associated Press

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) and Iowa defensive end Anthony Nelson (98) attempt to block a field goal from Nebraska placekicker Barret Pickeringfield (32) during a Big Ten Conference NCAA football game on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) and Iowa defensive end Anthony Nelson (98) attempt to block a field goal from Nebraska placekicker Barret Pickeringfield (32) during a Big Ten Conference NCAA football game on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) sacks Nebraska quarterback Adrian Martinez (2) during a Big Ten Conference NCAA football game on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) sacks Nebraska quarterback Adrian Martinez (2) during a Big Ten Conference NCAA football game on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa's A.J. Epenesa and Anthony Nelson celebrate after Nelson sacked Nebraska's quarterback during the senior day match-up between the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Nebraska Cornhuskers on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium, in Iowa City.

Iowa's A.J. Epenesa and Anthony Nelson celebrate after Nelson sacked Nebraska's quarterback during the senior day match-up between the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Nebraska Cornhuskers on Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium, in Iowa City. Kelsey Kremer/The Register

Iowa's A.J. Epenesa (94) runs the ball into the end zone after recovering a fumble in the first half of a NCAA college football game against Illinois, Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018, in Champaign, Ill.

Iowa's A.J. Epenesa (94) runs the ball into the end zone after recovering a fumble in the first half of a NCAA college football game against Illinois, Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018, in Champaign, Ill. Holly Hart/AP

Iowa's A.J. Epenesa (94) celebrates after returning a fumble for a touchdown in the first half of a NCAA college football game against Illinois, Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018, in Champaign, Ill.

Iowa's A.J. Epenesa (94) celebrates after returning a fumble for a touchdown in the first half of a NCAA college football game against Illinois, Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018, in Champaign, Ill. Holly Hart/AP

Nov 17, 2018; Champaign, IL, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) blocks the punt from Illinois Fighting Illini punter Blake Hayes (14) during the second quarter at Memorial Stadium.

Nov 17, 2018; Champaign, IL, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) blocks the punt from Illinois Fighting Illini punter Blake Hayes (14) during the second quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mike Granse/USA TODAY Sports

Nov 17, 2018; Champaign, IL, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) sacks Illinois Fighting Illini quarterback AJ Bush Jr. (1) during the second quarter at Memorial Stadium.

Nov 17, 2018; Champaign, IL, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) sacks Illinois Fighting Illini quarterback AJ Bush Jr. (1) during the second quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mike Granse/USA TODAY Sports

Nov 17, 2018; Champaign, IL, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) recovers a fumble during the second quarter against the Illinois Fighting Illini at Memorial Stadium.

Nov 17, 2018; Champaign, IL, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) recovers a fumble during the second quarter against the Illinois Fighting Illini at Memorial Stadium. Mike Granse/USA TODAY Sports

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) attempts to get past a block during a Big Ten Conference football game on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) attempts to get past a block during a Big Ten Conference football game on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

FILE - In this Sept. 1, 2018, file photo, Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa, left, pressures Northern Illinois quarterback Marcus Childers during the second half of an NCAA college football game, in Iowa City, Iowa. Iowa's defensive line has a chance to be one of the best in school history. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall, File)

FILE - In this Sept. 1, 2018, file photo, Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa, left, pressures Northern Illinois quarterback Marcus Childers during the second half of an NCAA college football game, in Iowa City, Iowa. Iowa's defensive line has a chance to be one of the best in school history. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall, File) The Associated Press

Northwestern quarterback Clayton Thorson juked his way around Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa, left, for a key eight-yard gain on third-and-7 during a 14-10 Wildcats win in Iowa City.

Northwestern quarterback Clayton Thorson juked his way around Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa, left, for a key eight-yard gain on third-and-7 during a 14-10 Wildcats win in Iowa City. Charlie Neibergall, AP

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) gets held by a lineman while running after Maryland quarterback Kasim Hill (11) during an NCAA Big Ten conference football game on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) gets held by a lineman while running after Maryland quarterback Kasim Hill (11) during an NCAA Big Ten conference football game on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa right end A.J. Epenesa reacts after making a tackle against Maryland on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa right end A.J. Epenesa reacts after making a tackle against Maryland on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave, Bryon Houlgrave

FILE - In this Sept. 1, 2018, file photo, Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa, left, pressures Northern Illinois quarterback Marcus Childers during the second half of an NCAA college football game, in Iowa City, Iowa. Iowa's dominant defensive line will be a major challenge for Minnesota freshman quarterback Zack Annexstad on Saturday, in the latest edition of the Floyd of Rosedale bronze pig trophy game. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall, File)

FILE - In this Sept. 1, 2018, file photo, Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa, left, pressures Northern Illinois quarterback Marcus Childers during the second half of an NCAA college football game, in Iowa City, Iowa. Iowa's dominant defensive line will be a major challenge for Minnesota freshman quarterback Zack Annexstad on Saturday, in the latest edition of the Floyd of Rosedale bronze pig trophy game. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall, File) The Associated Press

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) reacts to a play during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) reacts to a play during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Hawkeyes defensive end A.J. Epenesa and defensive end Parker Hesse celebrate a defensive stop.

Hawkeyes defensive end A.J. Epenesa and defensive end Parker Hesse celebrate a defensive stop. Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) sacks Wisconsin quarterback Alex Hornibrook (12) during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) sacks Wisconsin quarterback Alex Hornibrook (12) during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) celebrates after a sack during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) celebrates after a sack during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa right end A.J. Epenesa tackles Northern Iowa running back Trevor Allen on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa right end A.J. Epenesa tackles Northern Iowa running back Trevor Allen on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa right end A.J. Epenesa catches Northern Iowa quarterback Colton Howell on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa right end A.J. Epenesa catches Northern Iowa quarterback Colton Howell on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa State quarterback Kyle Kempt (17) gets sacked by Iowa defensive end Chauncey Golston (57) and defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) during the Cy-Hawk NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa State quarterback Kyle Kempt (17) gets sacked by Iowa defensive end Chauncey Golston (57) and defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) during the Cy-Hawk NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa gets his hand on the ball as Northern Illinois quarterback Marcus Childers throws a pass on Saturday, Sept. 1, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa gets his hand on the ball as Northern Illinois quarterback Marcus Childers throws a pass on Saturday, Sept. 1, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) celebrates with teammates after forcing a fumble during the Cy-Hawk NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) celebrates with teammates after forcing a fumble during the Cy-Hawk NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa's A.J. Epenesa puts pressure on Northern Illinois quarterback Marcus Childers during their game at Kinnick Stadium on Satuday, Sept. 1, 2018.

Iowa's A.J. Epenesa puts pressure on Northern Illinois quarterback Marcus Childers during their game at Kinnick Stadium on Satuday, Sept. 1, 2018. David Scrivner/For the Press-Citizen

Iowa's A.J. Epenesa stands for the national anthem during the Hawkeyes' game against Northern Illinois at Kinnick Stadium on Satuday, Sept. 1, 2018.

Iowa's A.J. Epenesa stands for the national anthem during the Hawkeyes' game against Northern Illinois at Kinnick Stadium on Satuday, Sept. 1, 2018. David Scrivner/For the Press-Citizen

Iowa's Garret Jansen, from left, Anthony Nelson, A.J. Epenesa, Matt Nelson and Austin Schulte stand for the national anthem before the Hawkeyes' game against Northern Illinois at Kinnick Stadium on Satuday, Sept. 1, 2018.

Iowa's Garret Jansen, from left, Anthony Nelson, A.J. Epenesa, Matt Nelson and Austin Schulte stand for the national anthem before the Hawkeyes' game against Northern Illinois at Kinnick Stadium on Satuday, Sept. 1, 2018. David Scrivner/For the Press-Citizen

Iowa State running back David Montgomery (32) gets stopped by Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) during the Cy-Hawk NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa State running back David Montgomery (32) gets stopped by Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa (94) during the Cy-Hawk NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa, left, and Iowa defensive end Anthony Nelson, right, embrace after an Iowa fumble recovery during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, in Iowa City, Iowa. Iowa won 13-3. (AP Photo/Matthew Putney)

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa, left, and Iowa defensive end Anthony Nelson, right, embrace after an Iowa fumble recovery during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, in Iowa City, Iowa. Iowa won 13-3. (AP Photo/Matthew Putney) Matthew Putney, AP

Iowa's A.J. Epenesa poses for a photo during the Iowa Football media day on Friday, Aug. 10, 2018 in Iowa City.

Iowa's A.J. Epenesa poses for a photo during the Iowa Football media day on Friday, Aug. 10, 2018 in Iowa City. Brian Powers/The Register

A.J. Epenesa runs a drill during open practice at Kinnick Stadium Friday, April 20, 2018.

A.J. Epenesa runs a drill during open practice at Kinnick Stadium Friday, April 20, 2018. Zach Boyden-Holmes/The Register

Iowa's A.J. Epenesa (94) puts pressure on Penn State quarterback Trace McSorley during their game Sept. 23 in Iowa City.

Iowa's A.J. Epenesa (94) puts pressure on Penn State quarterback Trace McSorley during their game Sept. 23 in Iowa City. David Scrivner, Iowa City Press-Citizen

Iowa's Manny Rugamba (5) jumps on Iowa's A.J. Epenesa (94) after he sacked Purdue's Elijah Sindelar (2) during the first half of their football game at Kinnick Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2017, in Iowa City. The Hawkeyes take a 9-7 lead into halftime

Iowa's Manny Rugamba (5) jumps on Iowa's A.J. Epenesa (94) after he sacked Purdue's Elijah Sindelar (2) during the first half of their football game at Kinnick Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2017, in Iowa City. The Hawkeyes take a 9-7 lead into halftime Brian Powers/The Register

Iowa freshman A.J. Epenesa (94) leads the Hawkeyes in celebration after Iowa beat Boston College, 27-20, during the 2017 Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium in Bronx, New York on Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2017.

Iowa freshman A.J. Epenesa (94) leads the Hawkeyes in celebration after Iowa beat Boston College, 27-20, during the 2017 Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium in Bronx, New York on Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2017. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa's A.J. Epenesa signs autographs during the open practice on Kids Day on Aug. 12. The highly touted freshman defensive end will play in the season opener against Wyoming, defensive coordinator Phil Parker said. Probably extensively.

Iowa's A.J. Epenesa signs autographs during the open practice on Kids Day on Aug. 12. The highly touted freshman defensive end will play in the season opener against Wyoming, defensive coordinator Phil Parker said. Probably extensively. David Scrivner/Iowa City Press-Citizen

Special to the Register/Epenesa family
A.J. Epenesa (99), pictured with his family and Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz, committed to the Hawkeyes.
A.J. Epenesa (99), pictured with his family and Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz, committed Sunday to the Hawkeyes in January.

Special to the Register/Epenesa family A.J. Epenesa (99), pictured with his family and Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz, committed to the Hawkeyes. A.J. Epenesa (99), pictured with his family and Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz, committed Sunday to the Hawkeyes in January. Special to the Register/Epenesa

Iowa football defensive end A.J. Epenesa holds on to the ball during a spring football practice on Wednesday, March 28, 2018, at the Iowa football performance center in Iowa City.

Iowa football defensive end A.J. Epenesa holds on to the ball during a spring football practice on Wednesday, March 28, 2018, at the Iowa football performance center in Iowa City. Kelsey Kremer/The Register

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa runs drills as the team prepares for the Pinstripe Bowl on Tuesday, Dec. 19, 2017.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa runs drills as the team prepares for the Pinstripe Bowl on Tuesday, Dec. 19, 2017. Des Moines Register file photo

Iowa freshman defensive end A.J. Epenesa reacts after sacking Wyoming quarterback Josh Allen late in the second quarter at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Sept. 2, 2017.

Iowa freshman defensive end A.J. Epenesa reacts after sacking Wyoming quarterback Josh Allen late in the second quarter at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Sept. 2, 2017. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa's A.J. Epenesa puts pressure on Penn State quarterback Trace McSorley during their game at Kinnick Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017.

Iowa's A.J. Epenesa puts pressure on Penn State quarterback Trace McSorley during their game at Kinnick Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017. Des Moines Register file photo

Iowa's A.J. Epenesa tackles Purdue quarterback Elijah Sindelar during their game at Kinnick Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2017.

Iowa's A.J. Epenesa tackles Purdue quarterback Elijah Sindelar during their game at Kinnick Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2017. Des Moines Register file photo

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa gets around Illinois tackle Vederian Lowe on Saturday, Oct. 7, 2017, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa gets around Illinois tackle Vederian Lowe on Saturday, Oct. 7, 2017, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

Iowa freshman defensive end A.J. Epenesa sacks Wyoming quarterback Josh Allen late in the second quarter at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Sept. 2, 2017.

Iowa freshman defensive end A.J. Epenesa sacks Wyoming quarterback Josh Allen late in the second quarter at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday, Sept. 2, 2017. Bryon Houlgrave/The Register

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