The Iowa offense has been the center of multiple jokes over the past few seasons. It was abysmal under the former Offensive Coordinator Brian Ferentz. In seven years under Ferentz, the offense never ranked higher than No. 40 in points per game (2020) and No. 87 in yards per game (2020).
Both highs were achieved during the Covid-19 shortened 2020 season.
During the first year under new Offensive Coordinator Tim Lester, the Hawkeyes showed some improvement. After being ranked No. 129 in points and No. 130 in yards per game in 2023, Iowa ranked No. 72 in points per game and No. 117 in total offense in 2024.
Iowa could have made a bigger leap with more consistent quarterback play. The Hawkeyes ranked No. 129 in passing and badly needed an upgrade at the position. In stepped FCS National Champion Mark Gronowski.
Gronowski decided to forgo the NFL Draft and return to college for one more season after suffering a shoulder injury with South Dakota State last season. He committed to the Hawkeyes during the winter transfer portal window on January 7.
As spring practices progressed, Grownowski lightly threw as he continued his rehab, but he is confident he will be ready by the start of the season.
Before the 2025 season begins, Gronowski is already turning heads.
Big Ten's Top Heisman Trophy Odds for Each Team, via FanDuel
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According to FanDuel, Gronowski has plus-15,000 odds to win the Heisman Trophy next season. The Heisman is presented annually to the most outstanding football player nationwide. If he does hoist the Heisman, it would not be the first time.
After the 2023 season, Gronowski was named the FCS Heisman after throwing for 3,058 yards and 29 touchdowns. He also rushed for 402 yards and eight touchdowns.
Gronowski was also the runner-up for the award in 2024.
During his career, Gronowski has tallied 10,330 passing yards and 93 touchdowns, with 1,767 yards rushing and 37 touchdowns.
Iowa fans are not banking on Gronowski winning the Heisman in his first and only season in Iowa City. They want competent quarterback play and someone who can push their offense in the right direction.
If Gronowski is in the running for the Heisman, he would be the first since Shonn Greene finished No. 6 in 2008, and Brad Banks finished as the runner-up (2002).