The Hawkeyes had a golden opportunity to take down another ranked opponent at Kinnick Stadium, but fell short against a tough No. 9 Oregon Ducks squad.
Iowa struggled in all three phases during a rainy, cold day in Iowa City, and they were unable to overcome multiple miscues to knock off Oregon.
The offense started the game slowly, but was able to put together a few sustained drives that turned into points. If normally sure-handed Kaden Wetjen does not fumble the ball at the 14-yard line, we would also have a very different discussion after the game.
Starting quarterback Mark Gronowski was not pleased with how slowly the game started on Saturday.
Gronowski has been adamant that Iowa needs to start games fast, and that was certainly not the case against the Ducks on Saturday.
On Iowa's five offensive drives in the first half, they scored only seven points, and punted four times.
The second half was better as Gronowski and the Iowa offense gave the team a chance to win late in the game.
Took it himself. 😤@mgronowski11 x #Hawkeyes
— Hawkeye Football (@HawkeyeFootball) November 8, 2025
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The Iowa defense was unable to slow down the Oregon rushing attack on the final drive of the game, leading to a game-winning field goal with seven seconds left to seal the victory for the Ducks.
Gronowski made some excellent throws and made a few big plays when it mattered, but it ultimately was not enough.
Gronowski finished the game with 138 passing yards and a touchdown, and added 25 rushing yards and a score on the ground in the loss.
Final grade: B+