With just a few days until Iowa’s postseason bowl game against No. 14 Vanderbilt, the Hawkeyes are settling into the preparation routine that has characterized their program for many years. The challenge is obvious, the opponent is ranked, and the stakes are high. Diego Pavia, the star quarterback for Vanderbilt, is the starting point and frequently the end of the team’s explosive offense.
This season, Pavia has been one of the most talked-about college football players. A talented dual-threat quarterback, he trailed Indiana signal-caller Fernando Mendoza in the Heisman Trophy voting. Vanderbilt is a challenging out because of his ability to extend plays, hurt defenses with his legs, and make throws under duress. Although Pavia has been in the news lately for non-football-related reasons, Iowa is unfazed. The No. 23 Hawkeyes are focused on the task at hand, which is getting ready for a formidable opponent on a major stage.
Thanks to Iowa’s starting quarterback, Mark Gronowski, that preparation took on a more intimate and transparent tone this week. With Gronowski’s microphone up, the show gave viewers a behind-the-scenes look at Christmas Eve practice and a unique window into the Hawkeyes’ daily energy in the locker room. It was obvious that practice would be competitive and boisterous from the outset. Setting the tone right away, Gronowski joked that there would be “mad trash talk all day.” He even made fun of defensive back Zach Lutmer at one point by referring to him as “Wal-Mart Cooper DeJean,” a lighthearted nod that made people laugh and demonstrated how carefree the mood can be even with a bowl game approaching.
Beneath the banter and jokes, however, was a keen focus. Gronowski was throwing the ball all over the field, making accurate passes, and dropping what players like to refer to as “dimes” into small openings. His movement spoke for itself, even though he didn’t openly discuss whether he was fully recovered from the injury he sustained during the Indiana game. He operated the offense with control and hit receivers with ease, looking smooth, assured, and at ease in the pocket.
Gronowski’s presence was possibly more impressive than the actual throws. His leadership was evident in small but significant moments, such as congratulating the offensive line on winning the coveted Joe Moore Award, sharing special celebrations with teammates, and maintaining constant communication between reps. These are the specifics that are crucial to a program but don’t always appear on the stat sheet.
The balance between intensity and enjoyment was another aspect of the practice footage that Iowa supporters have grown to value. It was evident that the Hawkeyes were putting in a lot of effort, honing details, and getting ready for Vanderbilt’s potent offense. They were laughing, grinning, and savoring the moment at the same time. Kirk Ferentz’s teams have always been known for this combination: they take their work seriously but never lose sight of the purpose of the game. Also deserving of praise is Iowa Football’s social media team, which never stops coming up with innovative ways to engage supporters. Particularly during the holiday season, it felt more genuine and intimate to watch practice through Gronowski’s eyes.
The most notable thing is how rapidly Gronowski has emerged as a key member of the team. He has embraced his leadership role and completely blended in with his teammates in less than a year with the program. It takes time for that kind of connection to develop. Shared reps, trust, and situations like this—joking around for a moment before locking in for the next play—are what build it. There’s a feeling that this team is aware of the stakes as Iowa gets ready for Vanderbilt and Diego Pavia’s challenge. Yes, they are enjoying themselves, but they are also purposefully getting ready. Gronowski sees this bowl game as another chance to compete, lead, and make an impact.
He will undoubtedly be missed as the season draws to a close. Not only was he tough and strong, but he also brought energy, leadership, and personality to Iowa Football, all of which were evident in one particularly memorable practice on Christmas Eve.
