(Radio Iowa) – Iowa’s defense hopes to continue to make progress on Saturday against Michigan State. Sophomore defensive back Dane Belton feels the defense played better in a 21-20 loss to Northwestern.

Belton says the Hawkeyes are confident they can bounce back from a slow start.

Former West Des Moines Valley standout Rocky Lombardi quarterbacks the Michigan State offense. Iowa defensive end Zach VanValkenburg says Lombardi causes concerns.

VanValkenburg says the Hawkeyes have not lost confidence despite the 0-2 start.