Three offensive lineman return, five running backs, and more on the Week 13 depth chart

The Hawkeyes left California with more than just a loss last weekend.

After failing to upset the Trojans in California, the Hawkeyes' College Football Playoff and Big Ten title game hopes were crushed, and the squad suffered multiple injuries.

A trio of offensive linemen, including Beau Stephens, Gennings Dunker, and Kade Pieper, all suffered injuries during the game.

Defensive back TJ Hall was also seen in a sling during the later part of the game, and safety Xavier Nwankpa mentioned he also tweaked his ankle.

Ahead of another pivotal Big Ten game against Michigan State, the program released the week 13 depth chart, and surprisingly, it remained the same.

During his weekly press conference, Ferentz stated that nobody is "100 percent ruled out," but they will see how the week goes.

Dunker, Pieper, and Stephens remain the starters

The second half for the Hawkeyes against USC this past weekend was a disaster.

Horrendous officiating aside, the Hawkeyes could not capitalize on their chances down the stretch, and the offense could not move the ball.

A big part of the offensive struggles was due to three starting offensive linemen being on the sidelines as the game progressed.

Beau Stephens, Gennings Dunker, and Kade Pieper were all on the sidelines at some point, and while Leighton Jones and Jack Dotzler filled in admirably, Iowa was stretched thin.

Ferentz is "cautiously optimistic" that all three will be ready to go on Saturday.

FIVE running backs are listed on the depth chart

The Hawkeyes have rarely had a full group of running backs ready for a game throughout this season, but for the game against Michigan State, five running backs were listed on the depth chart.

Kamari Moulton is listed as RB1, with Xavier Williams, Jaziun Patterson, Terrell Washington Jr., and Nathan McNeil all listed as backups with the "OR" designation.

It has been "next man up" mentality for the running back group this season, and it is a great sign that all five of the top choices are listed on the depth chart.

Hall and Nwankpa are expected to play

When Kirk Ferentz discussed TJ Hall being seen in a sling, he stated that slings and walking boots are a part of standard protocol and not indicative of the severity of the injury.

Ferentz stated that Hall is working through an injury, but should be fine for this weekend. He also mentioned that they would have a better idea on Thursday or Friday.

Safety Xavier Nwankpa also said after the loss to USC that he tweaked his ankle, but Ferentz said he is doing fine.