The Big Ten season kicked off with fireworks Friday night as the Iowa Hawkeyes stormed back in the fourth quarter to defeat the Rutgers Scarlet Knights 38-28, thanks to a historic performance by quarterback Mark Gronowski. The win, played under the lights in Piscataway, not only extended Iowa’s perfect record against Rutgers but also signaled a new offensive era for the Hawkeyes.
Gronowski Makes History With His Legs
Mark Gronowski, a transfer from South Dakota State, delivered a performance for the ages. He rushed for three touchdowns—becoming the first Iowa quarterback to do so since Matt Rodgers in 1990—and threw for 186 yards, orchestrating a balanced attack that finally broke Iowa out of its offensive slump. Gronowski’s two fourth-quarter rushing scores erased a 28-24 Rutgers lead and sealed the Hawkeyes’ third win of the season.
Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz praised his new signal-caller:
“He just keeps getting better. He’s a high-caliber guy. It’s not surprising.” The Hawkeyes, who entered the game ranked 103rd in total offense, racked up 346 yards—160 on the ground and 186 through the air—showing a level of balance rarely seen in recent years.
Rutgers’ Explosive Offense Not Enough
Rutgers quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis put up a valiant fight, passing for 330 yards and running for two touchdowns. Wide receiver Ian Strong, returning from injury, posted a career-high 151 receiving yards, helping Rutgers build a 28-24 lead heading into the final quarter.
Despite the offensive fireworks, Rutgers’ hopes were dashed by costly mistakes. Kaliakmanis threw his first interception of the season late in the fourth quarter, setting up Iowa’s go-ahead touchdown. Defensive end Max Llewellyn’s pressure forced the errant throw, and Jaxon Rexroth’s pick proved pivotal.
Rutgers head coach Greg Schiano was blunt in his postgame assessment:
“We made too many mistakes against a very good football team. We didn't deserve to win this game. This team will be a good football team. Right now, we’re not there yet.” The Scarlet Knights also suffered a blow with the announcement that running back CJ Campbell is out for the season with an undisclosed injury.
Special Teams Spark and Defensive Stands
The game started with a bang as Iowa’s Kaden Wetjen returned the opening kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown—the first time a Hawkeye has done so since the 2003 Orange Bowl. That early jolt set the tone for a night filled with momentum swings and big plays on both sides.
Iowa’s defense, while giving up big yardage, made crucial stops when it mattered most, especially in the fourth quarter. The Hawkeyes’ ability to clamp down late and force turnovers was the difference.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
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Iowa (3-1): The Hawkeyes will look to build on their offensive momentum as they host Indiana on September 27.
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Rutgers (3-1): The Scarlet Knights travel to Minnesota, hoping to regroup and get back in the win column.
Takeaways and Implications
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Iowa’s offense is evolving under Gronowski, giving fans hope for a more dynamic attack in Big Ten play.
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Rutgers remains winless against Iowa (0-5 all-time), highlighting the gap they still need to close to compete with the conference’s best.
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Injuries and turnovers continue to haunt the Scarlet Knights, but their explosive passing game could keep them in contention as the season progresses.
The Big Ten opener delivered drama, history, and a clear message: Iowa’s offense is no longer a punchline, and Rutgers, while improved, still has work to do to reach the conference’s upper echelon.
Sources
1. Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Rutgers Scarlet Knights Live Score and Stats
2. Two Scarlet Knights Change Positions in Training Camp
3. Football vs Iowa on 9/19/2025 - Box Score - Rutgers Athletics
4. National College Football Report: Week 3 | On the Banks
5. Iowa at Rutgers | HIGHLIGHTS | Big Ten Football | 09/19/25 - YouTube
6. 2022 March Madness, Notre Dame Men's Basketball: Rutgers ...
7. How does missed opportunity vs. Iowa impact season outlook for ...
8. Keli Zinn believes Rutgers athletics can make gains in the NIL space
9. Rutgers University Athletics - Official Athletics Website
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