Iowa defensive coordinator Phil Parker meets the press

Pat Harty Follow @PatHarty Phil Parker October 11, 2017

IOWA CITY, Iowa – Iowa defensive coordinator Phil Parker had a message for the media and for fans on Wednesday.

Parker said the defense still has plenty of room for improvement, but he also thinks the defense isn't as bad as some think it is after six games.

Parker and Iowa offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz both met with the media on Wednesday as part of Iowa's by week.

Iowa entered the bye week with records of 4-2 overall and 1-2 in the Big Ten.

Parker said the break comes at a perfect time for the players to rest and heal. He singled out all-Big Ten linebacker Josey Jewell as needing a break.

"This is the perfect time for the bye week," Parker said. "He's getting rest. He'll improve by watching."

Parker also talked about trying to cut down on the number of explosive plays allowed by the defense. However, he refused to call the 44-yard run by Penn State's Saquon Barkley an explosive play because Parker said Barkley's knee touched the ground.

Here are multiple videos featuring Phil Parker from Wednesday's press conference.