Austin DeSanto is back on Iowa’s list of probables — along with Cullan Schriever — for Friday night’s dual against Ohio State. 

DeSanto has been absent from the Iowa lineup for the past three dual meets and the Hawkeyes’ decision to shed Schriever’s redshirt fueled speculation about DeSanto’s availability for the remainder of the season. 

The third-ranked senior’s return to the Iowa lineup could come as early as Friday night against the Buckeyes. 

“Have we decided?” Iowa coach Tom Brands said. “Both guys are great options and our number one guy is Austin DeSanto and we haven’t decided because funny things happen in life. I can’t guarantee it, so how’s that for a teaser? I would say this: We’re going to put our best lineup on the mat.” 

DeSanto has been a staple in the Iowa lineup since joining the Hawkeyes in 2018. He placed fifth and third in two trips to the NCAA Championships and he’s 11-0 this season, including a victory over Schriever on the opening weekend of the season. 

Schriever has lined himself up as the next man in line, and perhaps also the heir to the 133-pound spot for the Hawkeyes. He’s 15-5 this season. Four of his five losses have come against All-Americans. 

What led to Iowa’s decision to toss aside the redshirt and use Schriever last weekend against Northwestern and Illinois?

“Well, Cullan’s a second-year guy and it’s not even close to being the same decision as bringing a guy who’s been here three or four months out of redshirt,” Brands said. “There was dialogue. He’s a very, very important part of our present and future. We love the guy. We know he’s capable. Not a hard decision.”