During the spring and fall practices, the Iowa defense had multiple spots open for grabs, and the competition for those positions is still happening.
While the depth chart has not changed since week one, that does not mean there aren't any position battles happening at practice.
One of the positions that has not been completely nailed down is the cornerback back group.
Veteran defensive back TJ Hall is the clear No. 1 cornerback, as he continues to showcase his abilities more and more every week. However, behind him, multiple players are competing for playing time.
Defensive coordinator Phil Parker has used a combination of Deshaun Lee, Jaylen Watson, Shahid Barros, and Rashad Godfrey as the defense attempts to figure out a clear No. 2 cornerback.
The Hawkeyes were exposed in the passing game last week against Rutgers, but made solid halftime adjustments to limit the big plays in the second half.
An essential player in the second half was Jayekn Watson, and he knows he needs to prepare at the highest level to be ready when called upon.
During his media availability this week (posted by "The Hawkeye Report"), Watson stated he prepares like a starter, so he is always ready.
He does not care whether he helps the team on defense or special teams, he just wants to be ready when his number is called.
Watson acknowledged that Indiana has an aggressive offense that keeps their foot on the gas whether they are up 10 points or 50, and he stated that the best strategy to slow them down is to take away their momentum.
If the Hoosiers' offense gains momentum, they can put up points quickly, and the Hawkeyes do not want to have to come from behind early in the game.