Iowa v Iowa State Preview
It would feel fitting for Kirk Ferentz to pass Woody Hayes for most wins in Big Ten history with a victory in the Cyhawk rivalry. A game Iowa has historically dominated with a 47-24 record all-time. An average of 4 points has separated the last five games, so buckle in as this one will likely go down to the wire in Ames. Last year, Iowa led 13-0 at halftime, a lead most Hawkeye fans would think would be a stranglehold(especially at Kinnick). But a 75-yard TD pass to NFL draftee Jaylin Noel turned the tide, and the Cyclones remarkably walked off with a 54-yard field goal to win. Special teams will be significant in this game! Both teams came into 2025 with a win total of 7.5; Iowa State, particularly their QB Rocco Becht, has been quite impressive, while Iowa came out to a slow start against Albany.
Iowa: You hate to see RB Kamari Moulton be on the shelf for this one. Ferentz noted that he would miss the ball game. Debutant Xavier Williams posted a 100-plus yard performance against Albany, but this is a serious step up in class. Kirk Ferentz spoke in the press conference about QB Mark Gronowski "running hot" amid concerns of his poor performance in the opener, 8/15 for 44 yards was a huge let down, most journalists' biggest concern was the fact that they seemed to take the game out of his hands after a tight start. In watching Gronkowski with the press this week, I found the fact that he seemingly acknowledged the moment and anticipation got him sped up a bit. For someone hailed as such a big-time leader, I found it interesting how openly he spoke about the need to slow his feet down and trust his throws. Using the phrase "screw it mentality" often! If he bounces back, that will be fantastic for Hawkeye fans, but another tough performance would raise some eyebrows.
Iowa State: When I saw Kansas State's 8-play 65-yard TD drive, all runs, to score their opening TD against the Cyclones, my head immediately went to that will be a concern against Iowa. With low grades according to PFF against the run, Becht will have to hit some shots to keep Iowa pressing. Campbell has talked during the week about the challenges of playing a game of such magnitude and intensity so early in the season. He also spoke about the ability to mix things up with his two high-performing TEs, who will likely play a significant role in deciding the outcome. Benjamin Brahmer has 2 TDs to his name. The 6'7 TE is a former freshman all-American, while Gabe Burkle comes in at 6'6. He has 116 yards and a TD to his name. If Iowa State can mix up the offense, Rocco Becht and his newfound weapons pose questions to the new look Iowa LB corps.
Market: Iowa is +3.5 in the ball game. For a game with every chance to come down to the wire, that is a good bet. The specialists on both sides are fantastic. Kyle Konrady was the hero last year for the Cyclones, while Drew Stevens of Iowa was third team all Big 10 last season. The key factor is how Mark Gronowski handles the moment. His willingness to talk about the jitters so openly shows a lot of self-assurance. Everyone who speaks about him talks about his toughness, competitiveness, and leadership. He has played in massive games before. I wouldn't be surprised to see him rise to the occasion; it's a huge moment early in his Hawkeye career.