Iowa Hawkeyes Stun Michigan on Final Play; NFL Scouts Take Notice of Week 4 Chaos

It was a wild Saturday on the college football schedule, and for Iowa Hawkeyes fans, it was a moment to savor. The Hawkeyes pulled off a stunning last-second victory over Michigan, a win that sent shockwaves through the Big Ten and caught the attention of NFL scouts across the country.

The Week 4 slate delivered chaos, with top-ranked Texas squeaking by Tennessee, fourth-ranked Mississippi getting handled by Florida, and Iowa delivering the final blow to Michigan on the game's last play. For Hawkeye faithful, it was a statement win that showcased the grit and determination Iowa football is known for.

Jadan Baugh Stakes His Claim as RB1 in the 2027 NFL Draft

While Iowa's defense was busy making life miserable for Michigan, Florida running back Jadan Baugh was doing the same to Mississippi. Baugh scored touchdowns on two of the Gators' first three possessions and finished with 142 rushing yards and three scores, sealing the victory with a final plunge into the end zone.

Baugh's performance marked his fifth consecutive game rushing for more than 100 yards, a Florida record. Scouts took note of his ability to do the little things, from helping his quarterback sell ball fakes to being the player the Rebels' defense game-planned around, to no avail. With Mississippi running back Kewan Lacy sidelined, Baugh took full advantage of the opportunity to stake his claim as RB1 in the 2027 NFL Draft.

Texas Edge Rusher Colin Simmons Dominates Tennessee

Texas junior Colin Simmons put on a show against Tennessee, finishing with eight tackles, five tackles for loss, and five sacks during the Longhorns' sloppy three-point victory. Despite a 15-yard penalty for watering the Volunteers' field, Simmons displayed why he has an early first-round grade from scouts.

Simmons was omnipresent, making plays in the backfield as well as in lateral pursuit. His speed, power, and natural pass-rushing ability will only enhance his already soaring draft stock.

Georgia Linebacker Chris Cole Shines in Blowout Victory

Georgia steamrolled Oklahoma, 41-13, and linebacker Chris Cole was the star of the show. Cole finished with eight tackles, one tackle for loss, one sack, and recovered two fumbles, one of which he brought back 85 yards for a touchdown.

Cole is rounding into a complete linebacker, not just a pass rusher, and he has first-round potential. His instincts have been impressive, and he is diagnosing the action rather than just reacting to plays.

Tennessee Linebacker Arion Carter Impresses Despite Loss

Despite being on the losing squad, Tennessee senior Arion Carter turned in a winning performance against Texas. Finishing with 11 tackles and a half-sack, Carter was a force against the run, on the blitz, and did a solid job in coverage. He also recovered an onside kick late in the game, giving the Volunteers one last chance to win.

Carter initially considered entering last April's draft before returning to Tennessee for another season. He is a true off-ball linebacker who could slide into the late part of Day 2 if he tests well before next April's draft.

Sleeper Prospects and Small School Standouts

Wake Forest wide receiver Carlos Hernandez continues to turn heads, finishing with nine receptions for 194 yards and a touchdown in the Demon Deacons' upset over Louisville. In four games, Hernandez has 30 receptions and is averaging 17.2 yards per catch. Entering the season graded as a UDFA by scouts, Hernandez will be getting late-round consideration if he keeps this pace going.

Small school prospect DaVontaye Saunders from Lindsey Wilson University is setting the college football world on fire. The senior from the NAIA school has rushed for 100 yards or more in five of six games this season and has totaled 175 yards or more on three occasions. For the year, Saunders has 12 rushing touchdowns. He is a well-built back who measures 5-foot-10.5 and 210 pounds.

Saunders displays both patience and vision, easily cutting back against the grain and showing a terrific burst through the hole. As a fourth-year player, Saunders will have the chance to sign with an FBS team after the season and play college ball in 2027, or he could enter the draft. If he does, expect him to get late-round consideration as the perfect rotational back for an NFL squad.

Oklahoma Quarterback John Mateer Slides After Tough Outing

It couldn't have gone much worse for Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer, who needed a big game against the talented Georgia defense but fell woefully short. The numbers weren't horrendous, as he was 25 of 34 passing for 231 yards with two TDs. Yet the sole interception he threw was a terrible pass late in the second quarter when the Sooners desperately needed a score.

Mateer also lost two fumbles, including one that was run back 85 yards for a touchdown by Georgia linebacker Chris Cole. Mateer looked indecisive and intimidated, and he showed no sense of urgency. After struggling against Michigan and now looking completely out of sorts against Georgia, scouts will be raising red flags.

What This Means for Iowa Football Fans

For Iowa fans, the win over Michigan is a defining moment for the program. It demonstrates that Iowa can compete with and beat the best teams in the country, and it sets the stage for a promising season ahead. The Hawkeyes' defense, known for its toughness and discipline, was the difference-maker, and fans have every reason to be optimistic about what lies ahead.

As the college football season progresses, Iowa will look to build on this momentum and continue to make noise in the Big Ten. With a strong defense and a growing sense of belief, the Hawkeyes are a team to watch.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Iowa beat Michigan on the final play?

Iowa won the game on a last-second play, delivering a stunning upset over Michigan. The exact details of the final play were not specified in the source article, but the victory was sealed on the game's final snap.

Who are the top NFL draft prospects from Week 4?

Florida running back Jadan Baugh, Texas edge rusher Colin Simmons, Georgia linebacker Chris Cole, and Tennessee linebacker Arion Carter were the top risers. Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer was the notable slider.

What does this win mean for Iowa's season?

The victory over Michigan is a significant statement win for Iowa, showing the team can compete with top-tier opponents. It builds momentum for the rest of the season and raises expectations for the Hawkeyes in the Big Ten.