During the broadcast of the Iowa football game against Illinois State on Saturday, the Big Ten Network highlighted a notable statistic regarding the team’s wide receivers. The graphic indicated that in 2022, Iowa’s wide receivers managed to catch only two touchdowns, with an increase to three touchdowns in 2023. However, quarterback Cade McNamara made significant strides by connecting with wide receivers for three touchdowns in the game against Illinois State.
Two of these touchdowns were caught by true freshman Reece Vander Zee, who scored both in the third quarter. The 6-foot-4, 207-pound wideout from Rock Rapids, a graduate of Central Lyon/George-Little Rock, seized the opportunity presented by an injury to Seth Anderson and the suspension of Kaleb Brown to showcase his talent, finishing the game with five receptions for 66 yards.
Hawkeyes radio analyst Pat Angerer remarked, “He’s gonna be the most popular guy in his Rhetoric class next week. Or Intro to Biology,” during the broadcast, highlighting Vander Zee’s impressive performance. Former Iowa star Cooper DeJean also expressed his approval of Vander Zee’s play.
In high school, Vander Zee earned All-State honors twice and set a school record with 768 receiving yards during his junior year in 2022 before transitioning to quarterback in his senior season.