Hawkeye Ironmen Upend Indiana: Iowa Time Machine October 7, 1939

Iowa Time Machine ⏰: On October 7, 1939, Nile Kinnick threw three touchdown passes to Erv Prasse as the Hawkeye Ironmen came from behind to beat Indiana. One of the most memorable early-season victories in program history, Iowa stunned observers with an offensive outburst that cemented Kinnick’s place in the national conversation and set a school record that would echo through decades of football lore.

The matchup, played in Bloomington, featured two future legends of Hawkeye history: Nile Kinnick and his favorite target, end Erwin Prasse. Kinnick, known for his intelligence, mobility, and pinpoint passing accuracy, connected with Erwin Prasse for three touchdown passes during the game. At a time when the forward pass was still evolving as a strategic tool in college football, such a performance was eye-catching. The trio of scores not only propelled Iowa to victory but also set a new milestone for touchdown passes in a single game, underscoring how formidable the Kinnick-Prasse pairing had become.

Coming into the 1939 season, Iowa had endured difficult years under coach Irl Tubbs, yet the arrival of coach Eddie Anderson promised a fresh direction. This game proved the team’s resilience and ability to execute under pressure. Falling behind early, the Hawkeyes relied on grit, determination, and the leadership of Kinnick to rally late, showcasing qualities that would characterize the squad famously dubbed the "Ironmen" for their ability to play nearly entire games without substitutions.

The Indiana victory provided an early glimpse of how this underdog team could harness leadership, endurance, and innovation to overcome adversity. Today, fans and historians alike look back on the Kinnick-to-Prasse connection in Bloomington as one of the sparks that ignited that remarkable season, a moment when resilience met destiny on the gridiron. #IowaOTD #IowaHistoryDaily #IowaHistoryCalendar