Iowa's only Big Ten statistical leader last season was Ryan Donahue. He had the most punts in the conference with 86, not exactly the sort of school record that gets your face on the cover of magazines.

Yet despite struggling early and starting out 2-4, the Hawkeyes didn't give up and punt the season as they did during a 1-6 finish in 2006. They won four of their last six in 2007 and built momentum for 2008. They're in position to keep it going with over 50 returning lettermen working out this spring, compared to 37 last season.

"We are very excited and encouraged," head coach Kirk Ferentz said. "This will be a much-improved year in all regards. We're anxious to get going."

A lot of Iowa's problem last season can be traced to the team's youth and inexperience. A total of 31 first-year players saw action last season, including 11 true freshmen and 20 redshirt freshmen. That was the third-most in the nation behind North Carolina (38) and Florida (33).

Injuries also took a toll, especially to the offensive line and wide receivers. That created a big learning curve for first-year starter Jake Christensen at quarterback, who was sacked more often than Paris Hilton.

Iowa's six-year bowl streak came to an end, but the growing pains should pay off this season.

Several players are returning from injuries, including receiver Andy Brodell and tight end Tony Moeaki. Defensive linemen Mitch King and Matt Kroul are among the best in the Big Ten and linebacker Jacody Coleman looks like he could be the next great middle linebacker.

Spring practice opened for the Hawkeyes on March 26 and concludes with the April 19 spring game.

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