# Iowa Defense Rebuilds with Star Power | Iowa Hawkeyes Football News

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/iowa-hawkeyes-football-today-2-min-news-the-daily-news-now-7469056/iowa-defense-rebuilds-with-star-power-iowa-hawkeyes-football-news
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/iowa-hawkeyes-football-today-2-min-news-the-daily-news-now-7469056/iowa-defense-rebuilds-with-star-power-iowa-hawkeyes-football-news.md
Podcast: [Iowa Hawkeyes Football Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!](https://stenobird.com/podcast/iowa-hawkeyes-football-today-2-min-news-the-daily-news-now-7469056)
Published: 2026-07-23T22:12:29+00:00
Episode link: https://sources.thednn.ai/8c7bc677332f8ecc
Audio file: https://api.fastcast.ai/audio/40c1cac1-4c7e-4e8b-a75f-ce14b4160c1b.mp3
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Duration seconds: 94

## Resource

Iowa’s defense is heating up for next season, ranked ninth overall by On3 Sports—right alongside Ohio State and Oregon. Last year’s stout performance—17 points and under 300 yards allowed per game—isn’t just history; it’s a foundation. But four key defensive linemen are gone, leaving a massive void. Still, the Hawkeyes have rising stars like Iose Epenesa, Bryce Hawthorne, and Kenneth Merrieweather ready to step in, plus new transfers to plug the gaps. Zach Lutmer could be a breakout star, and the secondary—with Deshaun Lee and Rashad Godfrey Jr. returning—is looking elite. Even with the defensive line’s rebuilding phase, Iowa’s pass-heavy strategy could actually give them an edge. Expect fireworks—and a defense that’s still a force to be reckoned with. Listen in comfort: Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN: advertise@thednn.ai This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting. Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai. View sources & latest updates: https://sources.thednn.ai/8c7bc677332f8ecc

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