The Iowa offensive line has been recognized as a semifinalist for the Joe Moore Award

As the Iowa offense continues to get healthier each week and all the key pieces are in place, you can see how important the offensive line is.

During his media availability this week, Iowa quarterback Mark Gronowski had nothing but praise for the unit, stating they give him so much time in the passing game and they open up holes "left and right."

Running back Xavier Williams is also thankful for the offensive line, stating "they are always going to show up."

The dominance of the Iowa offensive line was showcased last Saturday when Iowa trounced Wisconsin 37-0.

The unit paved the way for 210 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns, and allowed ZERO sacks on Mark Gronowski and Jeremy Hecklinski.

This season, the offensive line has paved the way for the Hawkeyes' offense that averages 30.7 points per game (No. 53 overall) and 184.0 rushing yards per game (No. 43 overall).

If Iowa's offense had not struggled mightily during the first two weeks of the season, those ranks would be higher.

Now the group is being recognized as semifinalists for the best offensive line unit in college football.

The unit was placed on the preseason watchlist for the Joe Moore Award, and midway through the season, they were named as semifinalists.

The offensive line is anchored by guard Beau Stephens, tackle Gennings Dunker, and center Logan Jones, with guard Kade Pieper and tackle Trevor Lauck as first-year starters.

Iowa is one of 24 offensive line units who have been recognized for the award.

Through six games this season, the offensive line has helped the Iowa rushing attack gain more than 200 yards in three games and outrushing the opponent in five of six games.

The unit has also only allowed nine sacks all season.