Vanderbilt Football is set to make its eleventh bowl game appearance in program history, marking a significant achievement for the Commodores. With a stellar regular season record of 10-2 overall and 6-2 in SEC play, Vanderbilt accomplished its best season to date, overcoming four ranked teams. The team earned a spot in 13 consecutive AP Polls, a feat that sets a program record, and wrapped up the season ranked No. 14 in the final College Football Playoff rankings.
Despite their impressive performance, Vanderbilt was not selected for the College Football Playoff, which saw five other SEC teams chosen for a shot at the National Championship. Nevertheless, the Commodores garnered numerous accolades, with tight end Eli Stowers receiving All-American honors along with the Mackey and Campbell Awards. Star quarterback Diego Pavia was awarded the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm award and finished as the runner-up for the Heisman trophy.
Heading to Tampa, Florida, Vanderbilt will face the No. 23 Iowa Hawkeyes in the ReliaQuest Bowl. The Hawkeyes, known for their traditional style of football, finished the season with an 8-4 record, although they struggled in their matchups against ranked opponents.
Iowa’s formidable defense, ranking eighth nationally in total defense, will present a tough challenge for Vanderbilt’s high-scoring offense, which stands at No. 8 in the FBS. The Hawkeyes employ a run-heavy offensive approach, averaging 177.8 yards per game on the ground. At the forefront of this offensive strategy is sophomore running back Kamari Moulton, who has gained 783 yards this season and is complemented by teammates Jaziun Patterson and Xavier Williams, all averaging over five yards per carry.
Vanderbilt’s defense has been impressive this year as well, allowing just 103.2 rushing yards per game. The Commodores will need to counter Iowa’s physical running style, which presents a unique challenge compared to their previous opponents. Defensive coordinator Steve Gregory is expected to intensify his aggressive tactics to counter Iowa’s running attack.
Both teams feature talented quarterbacks, with Pavia’s grit and creativity setting the tone for Vanderbilt. Meanwhile, Iowa’s Mark Gronowski, also a dual-threat quarterback, brings experience and mobility after a successful career at South Dakota State. Gronowski’s effectiveness as a runner—evidenced by his 491 rushing yards and 15 rushing touchdowns—presents an additional challenge for the Commodores’ defense.
Moreover, Vanderbilt will face a strong Iowa secondary that showcases All-Big 10 talent, making it one of the best units against the pass nationwide. The secondary’s standout performances have contributed to Iowa’s reputation for solid defensive play.
An intriguing aspect of the upcoming matchup will be Kaden Wetjen, Iowa’s exceptional return specialist, who is a top performer in both punt return yards and touchdowns. His ability to change field position could play a pivotal role in the game, putting pressure on Vanderbilt’s special teams.
The Commodores, ranked No. 14, will clash with No. 23 Iowa in the ReliaQuest Bowl on December 31 at 11 a.m. CST, promising a competitive showdown filled with intensity and excitement. With both teams showcasing their strengths, the game presents an opportunity for Vanderbilt to build on its successful season while Iowa looks to assert its defensive dominance.