Iowa defensive coordinator Parker to miss Arizona game because of complications from diabetes

Iowa defensive coach to miss Arizona game

IOWA CITY, Iowa — Iowa defensive coordinator Norm Parker will miss Saturday’s game at No. 24 Arizona after being hospitalized with complications from diabetes.

The 68-year-old Parker checked into the hospital on Friday because of back pain and didn’t coach in last week’s win by the ninth-ranked Hawkeyes over Iowa State.

Coach Kirk Ferentz says Parker remains hospitalized and there’s no timetable for his return.

Parker is in his 12th season at Iowa and is considered one of the nation’s top defensive coordinators. The Hawkeyes ranked in the top 10 nationally in scoring defense in 2008 and 2009 and have allowed just seven points per game this season.