Two Iowa college standouts are garnering national recognition heading into the next football season. Iowa defensive end Matt Roth and Iowa State defensive end Jason Berryman are both on the watch list for the Bronco Nagurski award given to the nation’s top defensive player. Roth was second in the Big Ten in sacks as a junior as the Hawkeyes finished with a record of 10-3. Berryman burst on the scene at Iowa State as a true freshman. The Houston native racked up 110 tackles last season and was named the Big-12 defensive newcomer of the year. Cyclone coach Dan McCarney says they had no idea Berryman would be able to come in and compete like he has. He says they felt like he could contribute, but never thought he’d be named the most valuable player. McCarney says there isn’t anybody that plays harder than Berryman. And the coach says he should get even better with more experience as his career is just beginning and he has plenty of experience. McCarney says Berryman is becoming more of a leader on defense. He says they expect him to be more of a “man” and mature off the field as well as on the field.The Cyclones and Hawkeyes open the season September fourth. Iowa State will host UNI while Iowa will be at home against Kent State
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