Iowa Football sits at 1-1 following a crushing defeat to Iowa State.
In a slugfest in Ames last weekend, the Hawkeyes could not make enough plays to ultimately win the game, but pushed a solid Iowa State team to the brink before falling short.
Against a ranked team, especially in a rivalry game on the road, everything must happen perfectly to achieve the upset, and Iowa could not get it done.
A bright spot for this Iowa squad has been the solid play of its defense. There were questions marks surrounding the unit heading into the season, but those fears have been put to bed after two straight stellar performances.
The Hawkeyes are looking to bounce back after the loss over the weekend, and the defense knows they need to continue impacting the game in multiple ways.
During a portion of his media availability this week, which "The Hawkeye Report" posted, senior captain Ethan Hurkett was very clear about what the defense needs to do for continued success.
Hurkett stated that they need to respect every team and continue preparing hard for every opponent they face this season.
While the defense has been solid to start the year, they have not forced many turnovers. Hurkett is aware of this and noted they need to continue making hustle plays of the perimeter and helping wherever they can.
He also noted that sacks, interceptions, etc., are not the only ways to measure success, and making the quarterback uncomfortable or continuing to make hustle plays are essential as well.
As a captain, Hurkett wants to continue leading by example, respecting every team that opposes them this season.