Hawkeyes Face Familiar Pain as Gronowski Goes Down, Brown Nearly Writes Legacy

“Oh no — not again.” That was the feeling across Hawkeye Nation Saturday after yet another starting quarterback went down with a leg injury.

In the fourth quarter, Mark Gronowski had to be helped off the field following a third-down run and did not return.

That left backup Hank Brown to step in for the final two series. The Auburn transfer finished 5-of-13 for 48 yards and nearly engineered what could have been a career-defining moment.

The only things standing in his way: a tipped pass that was intercepted and a missed field goal, giving Indiana the chance to score late and steal the win. Without those two plays, the story in Iowa City might be about Hank Brown’s legacy, not another devastating injury setback.

Instead, Iowa heads into the bye week with questions. Will Gronowski be healthy enough to return October 11th at Wisconsin, or will Brown get the nod under center?

Teammates voiced full confidence in Brown’s ability to handle the moment.

“Belief. We had full belief in him, especially in the huddle seeing the way he operates in practice,” center Logan Jones said. “That’s a big-time moment for him to step in there. Thought he handled it with poise and did a nice job.”

Brown admitted the outcome stung, but he’s choosing to view it as part of his growth.

“Disappointed. I definitely left some stuff out there, but it’s an opportunity to learn and grow from it. I try to stay grounded in my faith and who I am in Christ. That’s what helps keep me sane and not nervous out there.”

Brown also credited Gronowski for his encouragement during the transition.

“He was just encouraging me. Letting me know to command the huddle. Do what I need to do to get it done.”

For now, the Hawkeyes are left with more uncertainty at quarterback — and fans with a lingering sense of déjà vu.

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