I was there with 5 family members. Every Hawkeye fan I talked to before the game was worried about hanging with us. We discussed our teams, our strong defenses, and our questionable offenses. We agreed that a lot of it came down to whose QB had a good day. Every Hawkeye fan I talked to afterward said that despite the mistakes it still looked like we had it and just let it get away. To a person, they were respectful of our school, team, and reputation.
Even with everything we did wrong, we were one play from winning. We had every opportunity but couldn't catch a pass when it mattered most. You can't expect to leave 14 points on the field and win what we expected to be a close game from the time the teams were announced. Our defense can't prevent our offense from fumbling, after all.
Still had a great time in Tampa. Love that part of Florida and stayed in Redington Beach with friends who live 2 blocks from the Gulf -- beautiful. Saw a postcard-worthy sunset on the water. Ate and drank copiously. Busch Gardens was a great time, really enjoyed the Famous Maroon Band there and at the game. Proud to be Bulldog. Wore maroon & white every day, including today driving back.
Meanwhile, the Golden Egg is still at home. Clanga.