In one of Iowa football’s most thrilling moments of the season in the ReliaQuest Bowl, trickery lit up Tampa as the team used a perfectly timed flea flicker to torch Vanderbilt and further take control of the game. On New Year’s Eve, the Hawkeyes were not only winning but also putting on a show at Raymond James Stadium, which is where the black and gold flair originated. Vanderbilt came into the bowl matchup with a 10-2 record and a solid 6-2 SEC record, while Iowa was 8-4 overall and 6-3 in Big Ten play. It appeared to be a close contest on paper. On the field, Iowa flipped that script with inventiveness, self-assurance, and execution, particularly during one spectacular sequence.
Mark Gronowski, a recent graduate quarterback, took the snap to start the play. In order to sell the run, he drew Vanderbilt’s defense forward by passing the ball to running back Kamari Moulton. The ball was then thrown by Moulton to wide receiver Kaden Wetjen, who promptly returned it to Gronowski. Gronowski had time to set his feet and launch a strike downfield before the Commodores realized what was happening.
DJ Vonnahme, a redshirt freshman tight end, was waiting at the end of it all. Hawkeye supporters went into a frenzy as Gronowski’s 21-yard pass found its way into Vonnahme’s hands in the end zone, igniting the Iowa sideline. It was the kind of trick play that disrupts the opposing team’s momentum and confidence in addition to adding points to the scoreboard.
The touchdown increased Iowa’s lead to 21-3 at the time, a commanding advantage that demonstrated how completely the Hawkeyes were controlling the tone of the game. More significantly, it demonstrated an Iowa offense that was not afraid to experiment and, when necessary, combine physicality and creativity. Vonnahme’s score was by no means an isolated effort. The 6-foot-4, 240-pound tight end finished the game with four receptions for 98 yards and a touchdown, making him one of the most influential players on the field. The performance felt like a statement for a young player who is still figuring out his role. Additionally, it was his third touchdown reception of the 2025 campaign, indicating consistent development and growing confidence from the coaching staff.
A tight end serving as the play’s focal point seemed appropriate. Vonnahme’s rise upholds Iowa football’s long-standing tradition of producing top players at the position. The flea flicker was created to take advantage of his size, hands, and awareness, which make him an easy matchup problem, particularly in space. Meanwhile, Gronowski demonstrated why he has been such a reliable presence under center. His cool execution and willingness to sell the trick were crucial, even outside of the highlight throw. Only when every detail is convincing can a trick play be successful, and Gronowski handled it with the poise of a seasoned actor who was aware of the situation and the stakes.
In a larger sense, the touchdown represented Iowa’s attitude during the ReliaQuest Bowl. This team wasn’t satisfied with just getting a job done. It was a team that embraced the chance to compete on a postseason stage while playing freely, confidently, and cohesively. In contemporary college football, bowl games frequently have conflicting stories, but Iowa appeared completely committed to maximizing its opportunity in Tampa. The flea flicker was more than just a highlight for the spectators; it served as a reminder of how enjoyable football can be when preparation and inventiveness come together. The mood of an entire game can be altered by a single well-planned play that is performed at the ideal moment. Iowa delivered that moment with authority against a reputable SEC opponent.
The message was evident as the Hawkeyes maintained their lead. It wasn’t just the ReliaQuest Bowl that Iowa was winning. It was making a statement, celebrating who it is, and providing its audience with a play that will stick in their memories long after the confetti is gone. These kinds of moments also have an impact outside of the scoreboard because they foreshadow future developments. Young contributors who become more self-assured in stressful situations frequently maintain that momentum. This play felt exactly like the springboards that coaches talk about using during bowl practices and game reps. It combined belief, timing, and trust. The flea flicker was more than just a clever design for Iowa. It demonstrated that even on the biggest winter stages for college football, preparation, creativity, and faith can coexist. The upcoming offseason will be impacted by that lesson.
