RFC Summer Semester: Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (IIAC) Preview (NCAA Division II

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2012 Final Standings

Looking back: Coe College ran away with the Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Conference crown in 2012, finishing the regular season undefeated at 10-0 overall, and 7-0 in IIAC action. But the Kohawks otherwise outstanding season came to a stunning end in the first round of the NCAA Division III playoffs, as Elmhurst pulled off the 27-24 upset win.

Looking ahead: With five teams finishing in a five-way tie for second place in the IIAC last year, everybody will be chasing Coe going into the 2013 season.

 Predicted order of finish (2012 overall record in parentheses)

1. Coe (10-1):  The Kohawks enter the 2013 campaign as the team to beat in the IIAC.

2. Central (5-5):  Coming off just their second season of fewer than six wins dating back to 2000, the Dutch will try to bounce back, and try to win their 21st conference championship this season.  But with a schedule that includes a season-opening clash against D-III playoff semifinalist Wisconsin-Oshkosh on September 7, avoiding the program's first losing season since 1960 will be anything but easy.

3. Wartburg (6-4):  The Knights non-conference schedule for 2013 includes a September 14 visit to Minnesota to face 2012 D-III playoff participant Bethel.

4. Dubuque (5-5):  After an unlikely NCAA postseason appearance in 2011, the Spartans will look to get back on top after a so-so 2012 season.

5. Buena Vista (4-6):  Coming off of a 4-3 finish in league play last season, the Beavers and their faithful hope for an even better outcome this season.

6. Simpson (6-4):  Despite a three-game losing streak, the Storm finished the 2012 season strong with a win over Luther.  Head Coach Jim Glogowski and his charges hope for an ever stronger finish to the 2013 campaign.  Their last NCAA playoff appearance came in 2003.

7. Loras (2-8):  Duhawks were held to 19 points or less in each of their eight losses last season.  This season's slate includes games against 2012 D-III playoff participants Elmhurst and Coe.

8. Luther (0-10):  Winless Norse look to begin what will likely be a long rebuilding process under first-year head coach Aaron Hafner.

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