In this episode of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura recap Iowa’s big Saturday night win over UMass at Kinnick Stadium, a historic evening that secured Coach Kirk Ferentz’s 206th victory and cemented his legacy as the winningest coach in Big Ten history. From offensive rhythm and defensive dominance, the Hawkeyes put together a statement performance heading into their upcoming Friday Night Lights matchup with Rutgers.The VandeBergs are joined in-studio by Zach Twedt, Iowa linebacker and Story City native, for a conversation that goes far beyond the field. Zach opens up about his small-town roots, growing up on a fourth-generation family farm, and how that work ethic has shaped both his football career and his life. He also shares stories about balancing farming and sports, his passion for serving veterans, and the faith and values that keep him grounded.The interview offers a raw and inspiring look at what it means to wear the black and gold while staying true to where you came from. Whether it’s leadership on the field, discipline built through farming, or the humility to stop and help a stranger change a tire, Zach embodies the spirit of Iowa athletics and community.Matt and Laura conclude the podcast by previewing the upcoming Rutgers game. Go Hawks!🎧 New episodes every Monday—subscribe and join the conversation!
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Zach Lutmer | Heartbreak in Ames & UMass Preview
In this episode of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura recap Iowa’s tough loss to Iowa State. While the result didn’t go the Hawkeyes’ way, they highlight moments of growth from the offense, including the emerging connection with wide receiver Jacob Gill and quarterback Mark Gronowski finding more comfort in the pocket. They also touch on the lessons to take from a close battle against a top-tier opponent and the importance of staying patient as the team gels in a new system.The conversation then shifts to an exclusive interview with standout linebacker Zach Lutmer, who turned in one of the most impressive performances of the game. Lutmer shares his perspective on competing in a high-stakes rivalry, what fuels his relentless play, and how he and his teammates are responding to early adversity. His insights reveal both the intensity of being on the field and the resilience that defines Iowa football.Looking ahead, Matt and Laura preview Iowa’s upcoming matchup against UMass at Kinnick Stadium. They break down the keys to bouncing back, the adjustments needed on both sides of the ball, and why this game represents an important opportunity to build confidence and momentum. With home-field advantage and Hawkeye pride on full display, the stage is set for an exciting return to Iowa City.
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Addison Ostrenga | Iowa State Cy-Hawk Preview
In this episode of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura recap Iowa’s season-opening win over Albany, diving into the key plays, standout performers, and what the game revealed about the Hawkeyes on both sides of the ball.They’re also joined by Addison Ostrenga, Iowa’s rising star at tight end, who opens up about his journey from a multi-sport athlete in Wisconsin to becoming a key piece of Iowa’s legendary tight end tradition. Addison shares stories from growing up in a competitive family, his unique recruiting path, and the lessons he’s learned about resilience, mindset, and leadership along the way.Looking ahead, Matt and Laura preview one of the biggest showdowns of the year—the Iowa vs. Iowa State rivalry game. From offensive adjustments to defensive matchups, they break down what the Hawkeyes will need to do to keep the Cy-Hawk trophy in Iowa City.This episode blends heartfelt conversation, on-field analysis, and behind-the-scenes insight into the program, making it a must-listen for every Hawkeye fan.🎧 New episodes every Monday—subscribe and join the conversation!#GoHawks #TalkinHawks #Hawkeyes #IowaFootball #AddisonOstrenga #CyHawk
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Tevaun Smith | Previewing Albany & Celebrating the 2015 Team
In this Season 3 opener of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura return with a fresh look at the 2025 Iowa football season—starting with a preview of the Hawks’ matchup against Albany and a special conversation with former wide receiver Tevaun Smith.Tevaun reflects on the unforgettable 2015 undefeated season as the Hawkeyes celebrate its ten-year anniversary, while also sharing his journey through the NFL, CFL, and life after football. From overcoming injuries to building new business ventures, his story is one of resilience, growth, and Hawkeye pride.Matt and Laura also dive into preseason insights, new faces on the roster, and the quiet confidence surrounding this year’s squad. Whether you’re reliving memories of 2015 or looking ahead to what’s possible in 2025, this episode sets the tone for an exciting new season of Hawkeye football.
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Mark Gronowski | Talkin' Hawks 2025 Off Season Ep. 6
In this episode of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura sit down with new Iowa quarterback Mark Gronowski, whose journey from Naperville, Illinois to the Big Ten spotlight is full of resilience, drive, and quiet confidence.Mark shares how growing up in a sports-loving family shaped his competitive mindset—especially with a sister who played college softball and a brother who’s a Special Olympics gold medalist. From playing three sports year-round to being under-recruited out of high school, he opens up about the chip on his shoulder that fueled his standout career at South Dakota State and ultimately led him to transfer to Iowa.The conversation explores Mark’s leadership style, the lessons learned from his father (a former college quarterback at Drake), and the gratitude he carries for the often-overlooked offensive line. He also reflects on navigating COVID-era football, developing through multi-sport experiences, and why being underestimated might have been the best thing for him.Whether you’re curious about Iowa’s quarterback future or inspired by stories of perseverance, this episode is a compelling look into one of the Hawkeyes’ most anticipated additions.
If you’re a Hawkeye football fan, you’ll love Talkin’ Hawks with the Vandebergs, a podcast hosted by Matt and Laura Vandeberg, two Hawkeye fanatics who have a lot of experience and knowledge about the game. They will give you a weekly update on the previous game, the upcoming matchup, and their predictions. They will also chat with Hawkeye football players and other Iowa athletes, and share their enthusiasm and insights on everything Hawkeye football. Listen every Monday morning and be part of the conversation. Let’s go Hawks!
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