Photo: Mike Carlson / Getty Images Sport / Getty Images
The Iowa Hawkeyes triumphed over the Vanderbilt Commodores with a 34-27 victory in the ReliaQuest Bowl on Thursday (December 31) at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. This win capped off a memorable season for Iowa, which ended with a 9-4 record.
Iowa's quarterback, Mark Gronowski, played a pivotal role in the victory, completing 16 of 22 passes for 212 yards and two touchdowns, while also rushing for another score. Gronowski's performance earned him MVP honors for the game. Iowa's Kamari Moulton led the ground attack with 95 yards and a touchdown on 14 carries, contributing to the team's total of 379 offensive yards.
Vanderbilt, despite a strong season, fell short of achieving an 11-win season, ending with a 10-3 record. Heisman runner-up Diego Pavia shone for Vanderbilt, completing 25 of 38 passes for 347 yards and two touchdowns, along with a rushing touchdown. The Hawkeyes' defense managed to contain Pavia, sacking him four times and maintaining control of the game's pace.
Despite a late surge by Vanderbilt, including a 75-yard touchdown pass from Pavia to Tre Richardson, Iowa's defense held firm.
The Hawkeyes defeated Vanderbilt 34-27, ending the season at 9-4.