Madison Hricik brings on Minnesota football beat writer for the Minnesota Star Tribune Randy Johnson to discuss the upcoming matchup between the Iowa Hawkeyes and Minnesota Gophers at Kinnick Stadium Saturday, October 25, 2025
Minnesota’s football team set a school record with nine quarterback sacks last week in a win over Nebraska. Iowa is the Golden Gophers’ opponent Saturday afternoon and knows the importance of keeping QB Mark Gronowski from being under siege.
Iowa’s running backs have dealt with injuries since the start of the season. Now, head coach Kirk Ferentz said both Jaziun Patterson and TJ Washington Jr. could play against Minnesota, making it the first time all five running backs could be available at once.
Iowa football has won 10 of its last 11 matchups against Minnesota, and are 1-1 in trophy games this season.
Only one of the two head coaches in this game have ever been seen covered in mayonnaise.
The Hawkeyes will play UNI in 2026, but have added a second game as the season opener in 2029.
The Golden Gophers had nine sacks against Nebraska, while Iowa’s line hasn’t allowed a sack in two games. The Hawkeyes’ blend up front is becoming a catalyst for offensive success, especially in the run game.
Iowa football defensive back Xavier Nwankpa earned the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week after a career game against Penn State. It’s an honor that shows his development with the Hawkeyes.
Fleck is second behind Iowa’s Kirk Ferentz as the longest-tenured Big Ten football coach. He’s won more than he’s lost in what isn’t the easiest place to succeed.
Minnesota heads to Iowa after beating a ranked Nebraska team last week, setting up a battle to become bowl eligible on top of the classic trophy battle.
The Hawkeyes are in a seven-way tie for third place in the conference after their win of Penn State.
The Hawkeyes’ quarterback had one of his best rushing performances in his career, but instead of fully celebrating his achievement, he chose to continue praising the offensive — as he’s done all season.
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