Iowa football star TJ Hall's bowl status vs. Vanderbilt in doubt

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It looks like the Iowa football team will be at almost full strength for next week’s ReliaQuest Bowl against Vanderbilt. But, one player’s absence could throw a wrench in the Hawkeyes’ scheme.

Iowa released its initial depth chart for the ReliaQuest Bowl on Tuesday, and a couple of names were missing. Sophomore running back Terrell Washington Jr., who is reportedly set to enter the transfer portal, was not present on the depth chart. His absence isn’t a surprise. What was a bit surprising, and concerning for the Hawkeyes, is the status of senior cornerback TJ Hall.

In the newest depth chart, Hall was absent once again from the secondary. He’s the only starter not to appear on this initial depth chart.

Hall last appeared in a game for the Hawkeyes against USC on Nov. 15, when he left the game injured, but was able to return to the field. He missed the final two regular-season games for Iowa, wins over Michigan State and Nebraska. Many were hoping that the month-long break between the end of the regular season and the bowl game would be enough for Hall to return, but right now, it looks like that won’t be the case.

The senior defensive back had 39 total tackles, eight passes defended, and an interception in 10 regular-season games this year. It was a breakout campaign for Hall, who had just two passes defended and an interception in his first three seasons in Iowa City, albeit with much less playing time. If he can’t go for Iowa next week, the Hawkeyes will rely on junior corner Deshaun Lee to continue his strong play, with sophomore defensive back Zach Lutmer sliding outside as well.

Lutmer is listed as the starter opposite Lee on the depth chart, with freshman Rashad Godfrey Jr. and sophomore Jaylen Watson figuring to play quite a bit as well. Godfrey Jr. was impressive in his reps at Nebraska and could continue to show flashes in this bowl game.

While Hall isn’t officially ruled out for the game, his absence from the initial depth chart isn’t a great sign for his availability. Against the Heisman Trophy runner-up in Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia, it’s going to be all hands on deck for Phil Parker’s defense.

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This article originally appeared on Hawkeyes Wire: Iowa football star TJ Hall’s bowl status vs. Vanderbilt in doubt

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