After getting punched in the mouth by Oregon last Saturday at home, the Hawkeyes have to bounce back quickly before they hit the road for another pivotal Big Ten matchup against USC.
The Hawkeyes' defense was gashed by the potent Oregon Ducks' rushing attack, giving up 261 yards on the ground.
The offense are started very slowly, scoring only seven points and punting on four of the five first-half drives.
After another heartbreaking loss in a game where the Hawkeyes could have ultimately won, the players are adamant they have flushed the loss and are fully focused on USC.
During media availability this week (posted by "247Sports"), Iowa quarterback Mark Gronowski knows it was a tough loss last Saturday, but the team cannot think about it forever.
Gronowski noted that he had never lost three games in his college career, and while one never expects to lose, it is essential for the team to maintain its energy and finish the season strong.
He also mentioned you have to continue pushing forward and not dwell on the past if you want to be successful in the future.
USC (7-2, 5-1 Big Ten) presents multiple unique challenges on defense, boasting a top 50 ranking in total defense (No. 48 - 346.8 yards per game), and the Hawkeyes must stay focused on the task at hand.
Not only does USC present challenges on both sides of the ball, but the Hawkeyes will be on the road without the raucous Kinnick crowd to support them.
When the Hawkeyes have been on the road this season, Gronowski stated that the offense's motto has been "F.E.E."
He did not elaborate on what it stands for, but you can guess.
The Hawkeyes must go out to California and take care of business against a tough USC squad if they want to keep their slim CFP chances alive.