The Iowa Hawkeyes are preparing for the TransPerfect Music City Bowl against the Missouri Tigers on December 30, 2024. The team has received significant injury updates that will impact their lineup.
Quarterback Situation:
Brendan Sullivan, who missed the final two regular-season games due to a sprained ankle, is set to start in the bowl game. Head coach Kirk Ferentz confirmed Sullivan’s full recovery, stating, “He feels fully confident. The injury is history now.” During Sullivan’s absence, walk-on Jackson Stratton led the team to victories over Maryland and Nebraska. Earlier in the season, Cade McNamara was the starting quarterback but has since entered the transfer portal. This season, Sullivan has accumulated 344 passing yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions, along with 144 rushing yards and four touchdowns. citeturn0news9
Running Back Update:
Star junior running back Kaleb Johnson has declared for the 2025 NFL Draft and will not participate in the bowl game. Johnson’s absence is significant, as he accounted for a substantial portion of Iowa’s offense. In his stead, the Hawkeyes will rely on Kamari Moulton and Jaz Patterson to lead the ground attack. citeturn0news8
Offensive Line and Receiver Status:
Positive news comes with the expected returns of redshirt junior offensive lineman Gennings Dunker and freshman wide receiver Reece Vander Zee. Dunker missed the final two regular-season games due to an undisclosed injury but is on track to play against Missouri. Vander Zee, who has been sidelined since October 26 with an injury, has shown encouraging progress and is anticipated to be available for the bowl game. Their returns should bolster Iowa’s offensive capabilities. citeturn0search2
Defensive Concerns:
Defensively, the Hawkeyes will be without key players. Cornerback Jermari Harris has opted out of the bowl game, which could impact the secondary’s performance against Missouri’s offense. Additionally, linebacker Jay Higgins and Nick Jackson are expected to play pivotal roles in leading the defense. citeturn0search3
As the Hawkeyes prepare for the Music City Bowl, these injury updates present both challenges and opportunities. The return of Sullivan, Dunker, and Vander Zee adds strength to the offense, while the absence of key players like Johnson and Harris will require others to step up. The matchup against Missouri is set for December 30, 2024, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee.
