IOWA CITY, IA- Coming off a disappointing 7-5 season, the Hawkeyes have been well-represented in the college football awards thanks to the superb play of Josey Jewell and Josh Jackson. While the 2017 season proved to be disheartening–a home loss to Purdue, a last-second loss to the #2 ranked Penn State Nittany Lions, and a lack of offense against Northwestern and Michigan State–the Hawks were able to prove they had strong caliber players on the defensive side.
Linebacker Josey Jewell began the success for the Hawkeyes, bringing home the infamous Lott Impact Player Trophy. This trophy represents a player that defensively had the most impact on his team. Specifically, the IMPACT stands for: integrity, maturity, performance, academics, community, and tenacity. Jewell beat out star players Micah Kiser, Harrison Phillips, and Minkah Fitzpatrick. Now, Jewell stands among the ranks of players such a J.J Watt, Luke Kuechly, and Jabrill Peppers, who have all previously won this award. Jewell was named Lott Player of the Week twice throughout the season.
In addition, Jewell received Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year Award, Big Ten Linebacker of the Year, First Team All-Big Ten in both the media and coaches selections, the Jack Lambert Award for best collegiate linebacker, Writers Association First-Team All-American, and AP All-American first team.
Josh Jackson also completed an outstanding junior season for the Hawkeyes. Jackson finished tied for first in the country for interceptions, fourth among interception yards, and first in passes deflected. Jackson finished as a finalist in the Jim Thorpe Award for best defensive back. He finished as a top three finalist, falling to superb defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick.
Jackson took home a slew of other awards as well. He was named AP All-American first team, Writers Association First Team All-American, Walter Camp First-Team All-American, Big Ten Defensive Back of the Year, First Team All-Big Ten, and won the Jack Tatum Award.
In all, what appears to be the last game for Jackson, and what will be the last game for Jewell as Hawkeyes, make sure to tune into the Pinstripe Bowl on December 27th to witness the high-flying talent of both Josey Jewell and Josh Jackson.