In preparation for their season finale in the ReliaQuest Bowl, the Iowa Hawkeyes are traveling south to Tampa. According to sources, Iowa (8-4 overall, 6-3 in Big Ten play) will play Vanderbilt (10-2, 6-2 in the SEC) on December 31 at Raymond James Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. Central Time. This is the first time these two programs have ever met; it’s a new matchup for both. This will be Iowa’s first return to Raymond James Stadium since 2019 and their sixth trip to this bowl since 2004 (when it was known under different names). The Hawkeyes have qualified for the bowl 24 times in the previous 25 seasons under longtime head coach Kirk Ferentz, making them 18-18-1 overall. The
The bowl invitation is the culmination of an incredible 2025 season for Vanderbilt and head coach Clark Lea. For the first time in their history, the Commodores finished just outside the College Football Playoff field with ten victories. Even though they didn’t make it to the playoffs, this bowl game allows them to show off their accomplishments to the committee. If Vanderbilt defeats Iowa, they will play consecutive bowl games. They also bring momentum, confidence, and a desire to finish strong.
Vanderbilt won’t have an easy time of it, though. Iowa is still accustomed to making it to the postseason and is very good under duress. Ferentz’s program has long been known for its defense and general consistency. In the meantime, the game sets up a classic Big Ten vs. SEC matchup, giving Vanderbilt the opportunity to demonstrate why they deserved more attention this season and Iowa the opportunity to show that they can compete with a ranked SEC opponent.
The game promises to deliver more than just a final stat line as supporters of both schools start marking calendars and circling stadium departure times. It will serve as a benchmark, the culmination of seasons full of victories, close calls, and the grind of conference play. It might be a moment of redemption or redemption-denial for Iowa. For Vanderbilt, it was a flash of redemption, reward, or vindication. To put it briefly, anticipate a competitive, physical battle. Anticipate pride, perseverance, and perhaps a few surprises. The ReliaQuest Bowl now takes place on New Year’s Eve, which only heightens the excitement. Additionally, it might be the ideal way for many Hawks or Commodores supporters to enjoy 2025.
