IOWA CITY, Iowa – Ike Boetgger considers Nate Meier a friend. With mates like that, he might not need any enemies.

Meier picked up where he left off in the spring when facing off against his buddy. Boettger, Iowa’s right tackle, found it difficult containing teammate Meier coming off the edge at left defensive end.

Boettger appreciates his friend’s experience and with it the ability to challenge him to be better. There’s plenty of room for improvement but the competition could be a walk in the park compared to locking up with Meier.

Boettger spoke about his development leading into his first season as a starter in this interview with AllHawkeyes.com: