Victories are always fun for any fan of any school, but serious injuries can always take away from the fun. Luckily for the Hawkeyes, none of the injuries suffered against Iowa State appear to require extended rest time.
Bob Sanders is the most likely to miss this weekend's game, although, he will probably be ready. X-rays were negative on Bob's foot, and the reports out of Iowa City were that he has already continued running. However, it is most likely the Hawks will use caution in holding Sanders out of action until he returns home against the Nittany Lions.
Fred Russell suffered a bruise to his shoulder, which many witnessed during the third quarter against Iowa State. Fred will be a game day decision, but most likely it will depend on RB Aaron Greving's situation, also. Aaron has suffered an injury to his hip this time around, and the staff will await to see how much pain it can perserve before making a decision on Aaron. If Aaron is able to play, expect the staff to once again use caution and save Fred for Penn State. Regardless of either being able to play, expect Jermelle Lewis to receive a much increased role this weekend.
Brad Banks only suffered cramps in his hand early against Iowa State, but is not experiencing any problems with his throwing motion. Coach Ferentz stressed the fact that the staff continues to hold the most upright confidence in Brad's abilities and fully expects him to be the leader throughout the season.
DJ Johnson suffered cramps to his leg in the third quarter against Iowa State, but is listed as the #1 CB on the depth chart. However, Jovon Johnson could continue to receive an increase in time on the field.
Coach Ferentz was asked about the limited role of Dallas Clark so far throughout the season, and responded that the staff will be looking for ways to get him involved in the offense. Ferentz noted that Dallas was injured through the start of fall practice, and finally returned to his normal self last week in preparation for Iowa State. With the running game possibly being limited due to injuries, I would expect to see Iowa air the ball out more and Dallas Clark should get his opporunities.
How will this team respond back against Utah State? There was not one pause in Coach Ferentz's statements on how high the character is on this team, and how they have said that there is still plenty of football yet to play. I would not expect the loss to Iowa State to crash this season by any means.