The Hawkeyes took one on the chin against Iowa State, but don't expect that loss to send Kirk Ferentz's team into a funk.

The Hawkeyes were unable to take advantage of scoring opportunities against the Cyclones, but Ferentz believes that his team is still a work in progress.

Iowa turned the ball over five times against Iowa State, including a fumble that occurred when C Brian Ferentz (Kirk's son) snapped the ball over QB Drew Tate's head in the first half. "I think the good news is that a lot of the mistakes we made are correctable," Ferentz said.

The Hawkeyes will try to get back on track against Northern Iowa. The Panthers are 2-0 and ranked 12th in Division 1-AA, but should not be a serious challenge for Iowa.

The Hawkeyes will attempt to improve their pass protection. Ferentz was not happy with the pressure Iowa State was able to put on Tate and backup QB Jason Manson and will try to improve the protection schemes prior to taking the field at Kinnick Stadium.

"We need to protect the edges better," Ferentz said. "I think that's where we got into a lot of trouble. We had pressure off the edge.

"That's not just the tackle's fault. To the untrained eye, I think it appears to be, but when the guys are moving, we can help them. I think that's the biggest thing is the five guys need to improve on solidifying the pocket."

Could there be lineup changes? Certainly. Ferentz will base his starting lineup on who is playing and practicing well. "I couldn't tell you who's a fixture and who's not," said Brian Ferentz. "I don't think anybody's job is safe after (Saturday). Whatever five guys are going to play the game, we need to improve."

However, the head coach has a history of correcting problems and turning them into strengths as the season progresses. Look for that to happen this week against Northern Iowa.

SCOUTING THE OFFENSE: Drew Tate took a head shot and was forced out of the Iowa State game with a concussion in the second quarter. He should be back in the lineup against Northern Iowa. He is a smart, talented leader who understands Kirk Ferentz's offense and is very accurate. The Hawkeyes have found a running game this year -- something they did not have in 2004. Albert Young is coming off a 140-yard game vs. Iowa State.

SCOUTING THE DEFENSE: The Hawkeyes did not have a great game against the Cyclones, but the defense was put in a huge hole as a result of five turnovers. Chad Greenway and Abdul Hodge were both all over the field against Iowa State with 13 tackles each. They are the keys to a very hard-hitting group and emotional leaders as well.

QUOTE TO NOTE: " We would rather he not do that." -- Ferentz on Tate, who suffered a concussion while trying to make a tackle against Iowa State after throwing an interception.

THIS WEEK'S GAME: vs. Northern Iowa, Sept. 17 -- The Hawkeyes stay in state for the second week in a row. They should not have a problem handling the Division 1-AA Panthers, but they have to do a better job of protecting the quarterback. The offensive line needs to step up with Big Ten play looming the following week at Ohio State.

PLAYERS TO WATCH: RB Albert Young -- The Hawkeyes have a stable of running backs, but Young is emerging as the go-to guy after running for 140 yards in the loss to Iowa State.

DE Mike Follett -- He is beginning to make his presence felt on the defensive line. He had five tackles and a career-best two sacks against Iowa State.

WR Scott Chandler -- He had seven catches for 72 yards and is becoming a viable receiver. The Hawkeyes have strength in that area with ED Hinkel, Clinton Solomon and Calvin Davis, so Chandler gives them one more dependable target.

DB Marcus Paschal -- He is a solid tackler who registered 10 against Iowa State. Paschal is a very physical hitter who can deliver a punishing blow.

ROSTER REPORT: Running back Marques Simmons (leg) and offensive linemen David Walker (undisclosed) and Ben Cronin (knee) are questionable against Northern Iowa. ... Quarterback Drew Tate (head) is probable.