As a junior, Sanders helped lead Iowa to its first undefeated conference season in 80 years and was a key part of the fifth best rushing defense in the country. He started 12 games and made several key plays for the 2002 Hawkeyes. Sanders blocked a Purdue field goal attempt which was returned for an Iowa touchdown, resulting in a potential ten point difference as Iowa narrowly defeated Purdue, 31-28. He also forced a fumble in the second half of a game against Michigan as Iowa was clinging to a one point lead. Iowa scored a touchdown and cruised to a 34-9 victory. The Hawkeyes compiled an 11-2 record and won the Big Ten title in 2002, and Bob Sanders was named first team All-Big Ten and a fourth team All-American.FairWarning said:Never seen him hit like that vs Michigan or Ohio St.