If there ever existed a game to show the world how the Iowa Hawkeyes win football games, tonight is your example. After an unfortunate injury to starting quarterback Cade McNamara, the Hawkeyes went to backup quarterback Deacon Hill against the Michigan State Spartans.
Iowa displayed a masterclass in winning the field position battle, playing elite-level defense, and relying on their always reliable special teams unit. While there were plenty of good things and a win is a win, this game did not come without its’ fair share of items that need fixing.
Iowa’s wide receivers and offensive line play were well below an acceptable level tonight and it nearly cost Iowa the game. While the boo birds came out in Kinnick over some playcalling, the offense was a bit handcuffed with their backup thrown into the fire on primetime. More time is needed before we pass judgment on that.
Nonetheless, the Hawkeyes found a way to win courtesy of Cooper DeJean coming to the rescue with his punt return touchdown that will go down in Iowa lore.
Here are five takeaways from the Hawkeyes’ gutsy win over Michigan State to move to 4-1 on the year.