This season, like so many for Hawkeye fans, has been up and down. Up in the sense that Iowa is ahead of schedule in terms of pre-season expectations from national pundits and Vegas oddsmakers. Down in the sense that the Hawkeyes’ offense has largely stalled out, especially against ranked opponents, leading to three losses against Big Ten teams and dreams of a return to Indianapolis crushed.
It’s become a familiar feeling in Iowa City, excitement dampened by the cloud of missed opportunities hanging overhead. This season it was losses at #19 Michigan and #13 Wisconsin, as well as at home to #10 Penn State.