Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz hopes his young secondary continues to make strides as the 15th ranked Hawkeyes prepare to visit Indiana this weekend in Big Ten action. The Hawkeyes held Michigan State’s passing game in check in Saturday’s 44-16 win over the Spartans and Ferentz called it an example of hard work paying off. He says he’s a great believer that things don’t happen by accident, and over the long haul, extra work pays off. Ferentz says while it is important to stay focused on what’s ahead, the players are aware of some of the national attention the Hawkeyes are getting. He says that’s okay as long as the players understand the hard work it takes to do well and stay focused on taking care of business. Ferentz says Indiana has made great strides under first-year coach Jerry Dinardo. He says they’re playing with confidence and for a bowl bid. Ferentz says the Hawkeyes need to deal with increased expectations as they get set to visit Indiana on Saturday. The Hawkeyes are 3-0 in the Big Ten.

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