Walk-On Weisman Propels Iowa Past UNI in Iowa City

The Iowa Hawkeyes retained at least some state bragging rights with a win over Northern Iowa on Saturday in Iowa City behind the efforts of an unlikely hero.

Iowa defeated the Panthers 27-16 a week after losing to the Iowa State Cyclones, also at Kinnick Stadium. With the win, Iowa improves its record to 2-1, while UNI falls to 1-2, although both losses come against FBS teams.

The game wasn't quite as dramatic as the nail biter in 2009 when the Hawkeyes narrowly avoided a major upset by blocking two field goals in a row in the closing seconds to hang for a 17-16 win.

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After Damon Bullock and Greg Garmon went out with injuries - a seemingly endless stream of injuries or departures at the running back position - Mark Weisman, a 235-pound powerhouse back up, picked up the slack.

The walk-on ran the ball 24 times for 113 yards and three touchdowns.

The Panthers started the game strong, marching down the field for a touchdown on the first drive of the game. Panthers quarterback Sawyer Kollmorgen passed for 245 yards passing and an interception.

Iowa quarterback James Vandenberg threw for a workman like 228 yards on 18 for 28 passing.

Next up, Iowa stays home to play Central Michigan next Saturday, while the Panthers travel to Youngstown State in Ohio.