"We just need to be happy we are 1-0. That is the best we can be at this point."
Those were new starting quarterback Mark Gronowski's words following Iowa's week one victory over Albany.
The new Hawkeye signal caller has experienced Kinnick Stadium before as a visiting player with South Dakota State, but made his highly anticipated debut for the Hawkeyes on Saturday.
During Gronowski's first start for the Hawkeyes, Iowa's passing attack failed to get anything going, and he only managed 44 passing yards on 15 attempts.
He was able to find Kaden Wetjen in the end zone for a passing touchdown, and added 39 rushing yards and a touchdown on the ground.
The absent Iowa passing attack sounded multiple alarm bells for Hawkeye fans and the media alike following a subpar performance through the air.
Gronowski is an intelligent player who knows he will need to improve against Iowa State next week for the Hawkeyes to have a chance, and he addressed his play postgame.
During his postgame interview, which was posted by "The Hawkeye Report," Gronowski did not shy away from questions regarding his play but embraced them.
He chalked up most of his early game struggles to being too excited at the beginning. He stated he needs to relax more in the pocket and take a deep breath before each play.
Gronowski went on to say that he always suffers from anxiety, but that shows he cares about the game and about this team.
Gronowski also addressed the injury he suffered late in the third quarter, and in some good news for Hawkeye fans, confirmed it was only cramps and he will be ready for next week.
Anxiety aside, Gronowski will have to play much better next week as the Hawkeyes travel to a hostile environment in Ames for a pivotal Cy-Hawk matchup with rival Iowa State.