The Iowa Hawkeyes showcased their strength in a convincing 29-13 victory over Maryland, enabling them to improve their overall record to 7-4 and 5-3 in Big Ten play. This game marked the first start for walk-on quarterback Jackson Stratton, who led his team to success despite a challenging aerial game that saw just 76 passing yards.
The win was largely attributed to a powerful rushing attack, spearheaded by standout performances from Kaleb Johnson and Kamari Moulton. Johnson accumulated 164 rushing yards on 35 carries, while Moulton contributed 114 rushing yards, including a remarkable 68-yard touchdown run that gave the Hawkeyes a much-needed spark.
Kicker Drew Stevens also stood out, going a perfect 5-for-5 on field goal attempts, including a long 53-yarder in challenging wind conditions. His precision kept the scoreboard ticking and significantly widened Iowa’s lead at critical junctures.
Iowa’s defense played a crucial role too, holding Maryland to only 13 points while forcing key interceptions in the game. Jay Higgins and TJ Hall each recorded interceptions, thwarting Maryland’s attempts to regain momentum.
Despite their inconsistency, particularly in the passing game, the Hawkeyes relied on their formidable ground attack and solid defensive efforts to control the game. With this victory, Iowa continues to build on its momentum as they look to close out the season successfully.
Looking ahead, the Hawkeyes can find hope in their ability to grind out wins, adapt to player injuries, and foster performances from new faces like Stratton. Their commitment to teamwork and resilience lays a promising foundation for future games.
In summary, Iowa’s ability to not only secure a win but also to develop depth in their roster serves as a positive takeaway as they progress through the season.