IOWA CITY, IA (KTIV) -- -
The Iowa Hawkeyes wrap up non-conference play when they host Central Michigan on Saturday. The Hawks improved to 2-1 with a win over Northern Iowa on Saturday, and are 16 point favorites to win again this week. The Chippewas are 1-1, having lost 41-7 to Michigan State two weeks ago.
The Iowa offense is still a little sluggish. Quarterback James Vandenberg's passer rating is seventh worst in the country.
The Hawkeye rushing attack ranks just 88th in the nation, and Damon Bullock and Greg Garmon are doubtful this week after being injured. Former fullback Mark Weisman will get the start after running for 114 yards and 3 TD's against UNI.
"He's a contrast to the other guys we have carrying the football," said Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz. "Would he be our go-to guy, our predominant back, I don't know. Only time would tell. I think certainly he showed he can do some things out there competitively and brings a different tempo running the football."
"I just prepared the same way I've been preparing," said Weisman. "Just now it's at tailback instead of fullback, I guess. Just get in the film room and study and get ready to work hard for a tough opponent in Central Michigan."
"Next man in, I think guys come in and they're excited, eager to show what they can do," said Iowa center James Ferentz. "Obviously when we get those guys healthy again I think we're going to have a very deep backfield and that just benefits us as an offensive football team."
Iowa and Central Michigan kickoff at 11:00 AM Saturday on the Big Ten Network.
Kirk Ferentz also said freshman running back Michael Malloy is 'absolutely' still in the mix at running back and is listed as the second stringer this week.
Ferentz said the Bishop Heelan grad would have probably played last week, but got sick last Tuesday and couldn't be around the team. Ferentz said team doctors were worried Malloy might have appendicitis but it cleared up.
Malloy has not had a carry yet this season. He ran for over 1,600 yards and 29 touchdowns as a junior at Heelan, while his senior season was cut short by a knee injury.
Bishop Heelan grad Michael Malloy is listed as Iowa's backup running back this week.
