Recker’s presence felt in Iowa practices

The Iowa Hawkeyes return to Big Ten play on Wednesday night at home against Illinois. The play of junior college transfer Rob Griffin continues to be a bright spot for the Hawkeyes and coach Steve Alford says the major difference in his play is experience.Alford says another plus for Griffin has been his head-to-head matchups with transfer Luke Recker in practice. Recker is sitting out from games after transferring, but is still practicing. Alford says Griffin has to play harder in practice so Recker doesn’t show him up.The Hawkeyes are 8-9 on the season and while they have struggled at times, Alford says it has been an enjoyable team to coach.