:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67021496/usa_today_11943170.0.jpg)
The next player in the countdown to kickoff is a redshirt senior who came in as a starting offensive lineman in 2019 before injuries derailed those plans.
Cole Banwart - Senior
Ottosen, IA (Algona)
6’4”, 300 lbs
2019 Projection: Rotational Guard
Entering last season, Banwart figured to be another stalwart along the offensive line which had Alaric Jackson and Tristan Wirfs anchoring the tackle spots and Tyler Linderbaum spearheading at center, where Banwart was also in the mix. Behind the two tackles, he had the most game reps, with seven starts in 2018.
Unfortunately, injuries were in store for Banwart’s 2019, as he played in just three games, including starts against Middle Tennessee State and Michigan. Kyler Schott earned a scholarship for his play throughout last season at right guard. Because of time served last year, he may be eligible for a sixth year.
Of the Holiday Bowl starters, Landan Paulsen and Wirfs departed but Iowa has a ton of bodies to fill those spots at left guard and right tackle, Banwart among them. Considering his track record inside, he probably tops the list of Paulsen replacements alongside Mark Kallenberger and Justin Britt.
A three-star recruit in high school, he joined Iowa in 2016 over offers from regional FCS schools.
If Banwart stays healthy, he is, at minimum, the primary backup to any interior lineman.