Roback makes return visit to Iowa City

Toledo (Ohio) St. John's quarterback Brogan Roback created a buzz with his play this fall, and the junior quarterback is receiving increasing college attention as a result. The 6-4, 185-pound signal caller is reciprocating that interest with college visits, and this past weekend traveled to Iowa.

"This was my second time being there, so I knew what to expect," Roback said. "I think going there a second time is an advantage because the first time is kind of a blur. You get to build more of a relationship and pay attention to how they build their program, see if their offense really does suit me. I'm glad I got to go back there, and once again their fans were incredible; they are crazy about their Iowa football."

From an offensive fit standpoint, Roback sees similarities between his game and those of former and current Iowa quarterbacks like Ricky Stanzi and James Vandenberg.

"Especially the type of offense they run," Roback remarked, "they are more of a pro-style team and I am a pro-style quarterback. I like how they let the run game open up the passing game and I like how they use their tight ends as well. Of course they produce the most or second most tight ends for the NFL."

Iowa assistant Phil Parker is recruiting Roback for the Hawkeyes, but his recent trips to the school have also allowed him to build a relationship with offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Ken O'Keefe. What he has heard from the Hawkeyes, and experienced in Iowa City, has helped grow Roback's interest in the program.

"I get a great vibe from there and I like it a lot," Roback said. "I think Iowa is very high on my list, and maybe the top right now. It's a great college atmosphere and a great college town."

Next up for Roback is an unofficial visit to Michigan State this coming weekend to see the Spartans host Indiana. This will also be a return trip to East Lansing for Roback.

"I get to see things in a clearer way because the first time I was up there it was hectic and a crazy atmosphere when they played Wisconsin," Roback said. "I can't expect anything less, that's for sure, so hopefully I get to talk to Coach [Mike] Tressel, Coach [Dave] Warner and see how things go from there."

Roback recently finished a productive year for St. John's, completing 54 percent of his passes for 1,645 yards and 14 touchdowns. He also rushed for an additional seven scores on the ground.