NASHVILLE, Tenn. − The Iowa football program is actively searching for a quarterback in the transfer portal, and the recent Music City Bowl highlighted why. Missouri’s quarterback, Brady Cook, gave his team an edge on Monday, leading the Tigers to a 27-24 victory over Iowa at Nissan Stadium.
The Hawkeyes took a 24-14 lead late in the third quarter after Drew Stevens kicked a field goal. However, this marked the third time this season Iowa has squandered a double-digit lead, finishing the year with an 8-5 record, while Missouri concluded its season at 10-3, achieving double-digit wins for the second consecutive year.
Iowa’s lead evaporated as Missouri surged back into the game, thanks to key field goals from Blake Craig. Craig, who had been inconsistent throughout the season, made two critical long-range field goals to give Missouri its first advantage at 27-24 late in the game. Iowa’s Brendan Sullivan threw a crucial interception in the fourth quarter that significantly contributed to their loss. Reflecting on the game, Sullivan remarked on the detrimental impact of turnovers.
The game mirrored a previous matchup between the teams in 2010, where a late interception turned the tide. Iowa’s defense was put to the test, and while they managed to make some stops, costly mistakes allowed Missouri to capitalize and equalize the game. A controversial personal foul penalty against Iowa also shifted momentum, allowing Missouri to tie the score at 24-24 in the final minutes.
Ultimately, Iowa’s attempts to stage a comeback fell flat. Sullivan’s performance, with 14 completions on 18 attempts for 131 yards and a touchdown, was overshadowed by his critical missteps in the second half, where the team scored only three points. In contrast, Brady Cook delivered a stellar performance for Missouri, completing 18 of 32 passes for 287 yards and two touchdowns while adding 54 rushing yards.
Amid the heartache for Iowa, there were bright spots, particularly from running back Kamari Moulton. He displayed promising talent with 96 rushing yards and a touchdown, stepping up in the absence of NFL-bound Kaleb Johnson. His performance not only showcased his capabilities but also provides hope for the Hawkeyes moving forward with a strong foundation in their backfield.
The Hawkeyes faced challenges throughout the season but can take heart from their young talent and potential improvements in the offseason, signaling a chance for growth and better results in the future.
In summary, while the Music City Bowl did not end as Iowa hoped, there were glimmers of promise in their young players like Moulton. With strategic recruitment and development, the future could be bright for the program.