I will argue to my dying breath, that since I was introduced to Iowa and Iowa football in 1989, that on the whole, Iowa football has punched above it's weight class in every possible way for 34 years (TV viewing, $$, performance/success, Div 1 relevance). I also know that they did the same in preceding years under Hayden. Probably the only way they've not punched above their weight class is in recruiting. I would say they are generally fighting for guys in their own weight class there, and sometimes score an upset. So when they continually punch above their weight class, I'm even more appreciative.
FFS...I'm from STL, I could have gone to Mizzou. Or KU. Or Illinois. Or Lindenwood. I did alright in high school and probably could have even gotten in to Washington University. I'll take my 34 years with the Hawkeyes over any of that that any day. Also, Iowa....the state. It really is great. And I'm glad I spent time there. I'm glad I moved there as soon as I could after college. Met my wife there. Had two children born there. Wish I could have stayed, but moved back to attend the family business.
Fun fact: I believe the last time Nile Kinnick appeared (not as a player) at an Iowa football game, the Hawkeyes were playing Washington University.
