Update on Iowa Football Injuries: RB Return of Jaz Patterson Hawkeye supporters are finally receiving good news.
Running back Jaz Patterson is about to return to action after weeks of uncertainty in Iowa’s backfield, and the timing couldn’t be more ideal. Since sustaining a lower-body injury earlier this season, Patterson has been gradually returning to full strength.
In his absence, Iowa’s offense has had to be more inventive, relying largely on Leshon Williams and a group of young backs to carry the load. Don’t get me wrong, though; Patterson’s return gives the lineup a boost of speed and versatility that has been lacking.
The sophomore has demonstrated that he can alter the course of a game with a single carry when healthy. He’s the type of player who only needs a little daylight, not a huge hole. Prior to his injury, Patterson displayed glimpses of being the explosive playmaker Iowa sorely needed, scoring multiple double-digit runs and effortlessly catching passes out of the backfield. The Hawkeyes are keen to see if he can continue where he left off because of his exceptional vision and quick-cutting skills.
Earlier this week, head coach Kirk Ferentz expressed his excitement when he was questioned about Patterson’s development. Ferentz remarked, “He’s looked really good in practice.” He’s undoubtedly headed in the right direction, but we’ve been cautious to make sure he’s fully prepared. His return adds another offensive dimension for us.
We have really missed that “other dimension.” The Hawkeyes’ offense, which has had a difficult season overall, has been trying to find rhythm and consistency. Ferentz and his staff have had to make roster changes nearly every week due to injuries throughout the team, especially on offense. In addition to providing quarterback Deacon Hill with another dependable outlet in the short passing game, Patterson’s return could stabilize that rotation.
The recuperation process has tested Patterson’s patience. Any competitor, especially one with his level of drive and energy, finds it difficult to sit out and watch from the sidelines. After practice on Thursday, he acknowledged, “It’s been tough.” “You want to be out there supporting your guys.” However, I followed the coaches’ and trainers’ advice to have faith in the process. I simply can’t wait to return.
His teammates say he has a contagious energy during practice. Patterson’s return to the mix “just feels right,” according to running back Leshon Williams. Over the past year, the two have become close, and Williams joked that he’s happy to have his running mate back at last. He remarked, “We push each other.” “Everyone thrives when Jaz is around.”
The timing is perfect. Iowa needs every offensive spark it can get as it prepares for a critical run of Big Ten games. As usual, the defense has performed well, but if the Hawkeyes hope to remain in the division race, the offense must settle into a rhythm. Of course, everything is not miraculously resolved by Patterson’s return. However, it’s a start, and a healthy, self-assured running back could be crucial for an Iowa squad that has had to overcome hardship week after week.
Expect a few extra cheers from the Kinnick supporters when No. 4 lines up in the backfield this weekend. They have been eagerly awaiting the return of what they know he brings to the field
