Iowa football: Five observations from win over Miami

2 of 6

IOWA CITY, IOWA- SEPTEMBER 01: Defensive end Parker Hesse #40 and linebacker Amani Jones #52 of the Iowa Hawkeyes combine during the first half to tackle tailback Jordan Nettles #28 of the Northern Illinois Huskies on September 1, 2018 at Kinnick Stadium, in Iowa City, Iowa. (Photo by Matthew Holst/Getty Images) /

Amani Jones looked explosive

One of the things I was most excited about with last night’s game was seeing how the Iowa football team’s defensive line destroyed Miami’s offensive line, but for most of the night, the defensive line was left quiet. They played well throughout the game, but there were no big-time plays or bone-crunching sacks.

Until Amani Jones came out of nowhere to take down Brett Gabbert.

Amani Jones, a converted linebacker, has always had good size and speed, but he couldn’t control his excitement and aggression leaving him susceptible to being out of place often in Phil Parker’s defense. But what hurt him as a linebacker, makes him a perfect third-down pass-rush specialist. And if last night was any indication of what he could do, the future is bright for Jones in his senior season.

With AJ Epenesa and Chauncy Golston drawing significant attention, Jones will get many more opportunities to take down the quarterback.

Home/Iowa Football