After former South Dakota State star quarterback Mark Gronowski transferred to Iowa, it was like a cloud was lifted from the minds of all Iowa fans. For once, the Hawkeyes had a quarterback who could throw and run effectively, and we can put the memories of Brian Ferentz's offense behind us.
There is no way it could get worse than last season, right?
If game one was an indication of what the Iowa passing attack will be like, the offense is in a lot of trouble.
Gronowski only attempted 15 passes, but completed just eight of them for a total of 44 yards. He was able to pick up 39 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown, but Hawkeye fans were left with a sour taste in their mouths after a typical poor Iowa passing attack.
Iowa was always going to win against Albany, but this was the week for Tim Lester to open up the playbook and air it out before heading to Ames next weekend for a pivotal Cy-Hawk game against rival Iowa State.
The Hawkeyes ultimately won the game 34-7, but fans are tired of the same old story when it comes to the passing game.
Many took to social media to voice their displeasure with Lester and Gronowski.
Iowa victory. Running game was elite. Defense was good. Passing game needs a lot of work.
— Andy froemel (@FroemelAndy) August 31, 2025
In one of the more tame posts on X that was not riddled with swear words or trolling from Nebraska fans, Andy stated what we were all thinking: the passing game needs a lot of work.
Most annoyed I think I’ve ever been at a win.
— RadioHawk59 (@Radio_Hawkeye) August 31, 2025
Hit a WR that’s open downfield. The plays were there
Annoying is definitely one word to describe the passing attack, especially after Gronowski missed a wide-open Sam Phillips in the end zone early in the game.
Why can't we figure out a QB lol
— John fluhr (@john_fluhr) August 31, 2025
All Hawkeye football fans have been asking the same question since Nate Stanley was at Iowa.
Very disappointed with Mark's performance. I expected so much more from a guy with so much experience.
— Takashi (@Ioweeb_) August 31, 2025
Gronowski had a lot of hype coming into the season after a stellar career at South Dakota State, and he did not have a good first game in the black and gold.
Almost as many points as passing yards
— Brett (@schneiderbrett9) August 31, 2025
Sad, but true statement.
Gronowski is known for his work ethic and being his own toughest critic, but he has to play much better for the Hawkeye offense to succeed.
It is only week one, but as most Iowa fans know, we tend to overexaggerate, especially when we have seen the same poor passing attack for way too long.