The Iowa football program has a storied history, showcasing numerous talented players over the past quarter-century. Under the leadership of head coach Kirk Ferentz, the Hawkeyes have experienced significant success, establishing themselves as a formidable presence in college football. This sustained period of excellence has been marked by standout players, with a select few truly distinguishing themselves.
Recently, USA TODAY Sports acknowledged three of these exceptional athletes from the Ferentz era in their All-2000s college football teams. The selection, which includes the best players from the start of the century to the present, features punter Tory Taylor on the first team and tight end Dallas Clark along with kicker Nate Kaeding on the second team.
Tory Taylor, a fan favorite and the 2023 Ray Guy Award winner, has made a significant impact on the Hawkeyes' special teams. His performance has been crucial, particularly during his senior year when Iowa finished with a 10-3 record despite averaging only 16.6 points per game. Over his career, Taylor averaged an impressive 46.3 yards per punt and led the Bowl Subdivision in kicks downed inside the 20-yard line for three consecutive years. His ability to change field position has made him a vital asset for the Hawkeyes.
Joining Taylor on the All-2000s second team are Dallas Clark and Nate Kaeding, both of whom were instrumental in Iowa's offensive success during their respective tenures. Clark, who played for the Hawkeyes in 2001 and 2002, was a dominant force on the field, recording 81 receptions for 1,281 yards and eight touchdowns. His exceptional performance earned him All-American honors in 2002, and he was subsequently selected in the first round of the 2003 NFL Draft.
Nate Kaeding, another standout from the early 2000s, holds the title of Iowa's all-time scoring leader with 373 points. His remarkable consistency as a kicker was highlighted by his receipt of the Lou Groza Award in 2002, recognizing him as the nation's top kicker. Kaeding's 2003 season was particularly noteworthy, as he was named a consensus All-American. Throughout his career, he successfully converted 67 field goals and achieved a remarkable streak of 22 consecutive successful kicks spanning the 2001 and 2002 seasons.
The recognition of these three Iowa football legends underscores the program's rich history and the significant contributions made by its players. As the Hawkeyes continue to build on their legacy, the achievements of Taylor, Clark, and Kaeding serve as a testament to the talent that has emerged from Iowa's football program.
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