This was supposed to be the start of the playoff run for the Iowa Hawkeyes. What it turned out to be was the worst offensive effort of the Tim Lester era. The Hawkeyes found everyway possible to lose the game with four turnovers and a blocked punt that led to an early Minnesota field goal. The Golden Gophers won 13-10 on a walk off field goal to recapture Floyd of Rosdale.
Iowa’s defense kept the Golden Gophers offense in check but couldn’t overcome the awful Iowa offense. Quarterback Hank Brown took over for Jeremy Hecklinski late in the first half after Hecklinski threw a pick and missed several open receivers.
While Iowa’s offense had its fair share of struggles with Brown as well, he directed a four-play, 98-yard touchdown drive highlighted by a 57-yard throw-and-catch to Tony Diaz and a 37-yard touchdown strike to Reece Vander Zee.
Iowa’s defense forced the ninth Minnesota punt on the ensuing possession, giving the Hawkeyes a chance to drive for the win. Instead, the Hawkeyes went three-and-out.
Minnesota responded with the game-winning drive that was sparked by Gopher quarterback Drake Lindsey connecting with Jalen Smith for a 39-yard chunk on a third-and-4 snap. Iowa ended its day with four turnovers: three interceptions and one fumble. It managed just 288 yards of offense. Minnesota gained just 209 yards of offense, but the early blocked punt gave the Gophers a gimme field goal in the first quarter.
The Hawkeyes return home for Homecoming next Saturday at 11 am against Wisconsin.
