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TAMPA, Fla. (Dec. 31, 2025) — Mark Gronowski delivered a poised performance in his final game as Iowa’s starting quarterback, throwing for two touchdowns, rushing for another, and guiding the Hawkeyes to a 34–27 win over Vanderbilt in the ReliaQuest Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. The first-ever meeting between the programs lived up to its billing, producing explosive plays, momentum swings, and a tense finish that kept fans on the edge of their seats late into New Year’s Eve. Iowa (9‑4) established a lead early and responded every time Vanderbilt (10‑3) threatened, while the Commodores showcased an offensive attack that repeatedly tested Iowa’s defense.
Iowa sets the early tone
From the opening drive, Iowa made clear that its balanced offensive attack would dictate the game’s tempo. Gronowski mixed short, precise passes with the physical running of Kamari Moulton, moving methodically down the field before Moulton finished a 72-yard drive with a 4-yard touchdown run, giving the Hawkeyes a 7–0 lead. Vanderbilt responded with patience, leaning on quarterback Diego Pavia to navigate the field with measured passing and creative movement in the pocket. Despite sustained possession, the Commodores were limited to a 41-yard field goal from Brock Taylor, cutting Iowa’s advantage to 7–3. As the first half wound down, Gronowski demonstrated his poise, delivering a crisp 10-yard touchdown pass to Reece Vander Zee with under a minute remaining. The score gave Iowa a 14–3 halftime lead and highlighted the Hawkeyes’ ability to balance the ground game with timely, high-percentage passing when it mattered most.
Commodores mount a third-quarter surge
Vanderbilt emerged from halftime with renewed energy and determination, intent on shifting momentum. On the opening drive of the third quarter, Pavia connected with Tre Richardson for a 75-yard touchdown pass, slicing Iowa’s lead to 21–10 and sparking the Commodore sideline. The explosive play demonstrated Vanderbilt’s capability to strike quickly and threatened to unravel Iowa’s control of the game. The Hawkeyes answered decisively, with Gronowski finding DJ Vonnahme on a 21-yard scoring pass, reasserting Iowa’s offensive balance and reminding Vanderbilt that every possession would be contested. Later in the quarter, Pavia orchestrated a methodical drive, culminating in a 16-yard touchdown pass to Joseph McVay, cutting the deficit to 24–17. By the end of the third, the game had transformed into a high-stakes chess match, with both teams capable of flipping momentum in a single play.
Late-game drama in the fourth quarter
The fourth quarter offered the game’s most tense moments. Iowa struck early, with Gronowski capping a 10-play drive on a 1-yard quarterback sneak, pushing the lead to 31–17. Vanderbilt responded with urgency, as Pavia took the ball on the ground for an 11-yard rushing touchdown, narrowing the margin to 31–24 and giving the Commodores renewed hope. Iowa’s Drew Stevens then drilled a 44-yard field goal, restoring a two-score cushion at 34–24. Vanderbilt would answer one final time with a 37-yard kick from Taylor, but the Commodores’ last drive stalled in the red zone, as Iowa’s defense executed a crucial stop to secure the win. The final minutes showcased both teams’ resilience, with Iowa’s ability to make key plays under pressure proving the difference in a game that had swings of momentum throughout.
Stat leaders shine for both teams
The game featured standout performances that highlighted the strengths of both programs. For Iowa, Gronowski completed 16-of-22 passes for 212 yards, throwing two touchdowns and adding a rushing score. DJ Vonnahme caught seven passes for 146 yards, making several critical grabs on third downs, while Moulton’s power running consistently kept Iowa’s drives alive and helped control the clock. On Vanderbilt’s side, Pavia threw 25-of-38 for 347 yards, with two passing touchdowns and a rushing score, repeatedly putting pressure on the Hawkeye secondary. Richardson led the receiving corps with 127 yards and a touchdown, while McVay contributed 62 yards and a score. Brock Taylor provided two field goals to keep Vanderbilt within reach, and Armani Mighty’s work on the line and in the backfield helped sustain drives and protect Pavia in key moments. Despite Vanderbilt outgaining Iowa 398–379 in total yards, Iowa’s timely execution and ability to make plays in critical situations proved decisive.
Season takeaways
Iowa closes the season with a bowl victory that underscores its offensive balance, clutch execution, and a defense capable of bending without breaking. The Hawkeyes demonstrated that even under pressure, they could respond to momentum swings and make the plays that mattered most. Vanderbilt, despite the loss, showcased an explosive passing game, resilience, and the ability to strike quickly, finishing 10–3 and leaving a positive impression on fans. The game’s back-and-forth scoring, highlight-reel plays, and tense finish made for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve matchup and a memorable first-ever meeting between the two programs.
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