Iowa Hawkeyes Rank No.33 Ahead 2025 Season With QB Gronowski

The Iowa Hawkeyes football team is entering the 2025 season with renewed optimism, bolstered by the addition of transfer quarterback Mark Gronowski, who is expected to elevate the passing game significantly. Gronowski, known for his dual-threat ability and successful tenure at South Dakota State, is projected to be a key factor in Iowa's offensive improvement, potentially allowing wide receiver Reece Vander Zee to have a breakout sophomore campaign after a disappointing 2024 season. The team faces a challenging schedule featuring tough home games against Oregon and Penn State, with road matchups against USC, Nebraska, Wisconsin, and Rutgers likely to determine their standing in the Big Ten. Defensive consistency, particularly in run defense, remains crucial, as Iowa has struggled in games where opponents gain over 200 rushing yards. Meanwhile, on the basketball front, Iowa is transitioning to a new era under coach Ben McCollum, who has brought in a strong transfer class that includes several players from Drake. Additionally, former Iowa star George Kittle is receiving high praise entering the 2025 NFL season, ranked as the best tight end in the league and having secured a lucrative contract extension with the San Francisco 49ers.