Iowa’s 2-0 start in the Big Ten has raised some eyebrows but with a victory at home tonight over eighth-ranked Illinois the Hawkeyes would become the early surprise in league play. Iowa coach Steve Alford says the concern against the Illini is matchups, and it begins with 6-10 forward Brian Cook who averaged 28-points and ten rebounds in a pair of Illini victories last week. Alford says Cook by himself will force defenses to extend.Iowa has played some zone as of late but that might not work against Illinois’ three-point shooting as they’re averaging about nine three pointers a game.The series with Illinois has become the most heated the Hawkeyes play. Alford says it is a good board war and the fans love the series. Illinois coach Bill Self says Cook is playing like a veteran this season. Self says the Hawkeyes have been successful by playing as a team.