While it doesn't really come as a shock, Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz announced today that Jewel Hampton (blocking, right), the man tasked with taking over Shonn Greene's running back job, will miss the entire 2009 season with a knee injury. While the exact injury Hampton suffered was not disclosed, Ferentz confirmed that Hampton will have surgery and is likely to redshirt this season.Hampton's injury seriously dims Iowa's hopes for improving upon last season's success. Hampton was Greene's backup last season and was the only running back on the roster with significant game experience. Former walkon Paki O'Meara (pictured. with ball), who has played a little, moves into the starting spot, though it is likely Ferentz will use multiple backs.
O'Meara isn't the only Hawkeye who must now step up his game.
