Iowa overcame a slow start as the 25th ranked Hawkeyes beat Illinois State 40-0. Quarterback Cade McNamara led the Hawkeyes to 34 second half points and finished 21 of 31 for 251 yards and three touchdowns.

McNamara missed most of last season with an ACL injury.

McNamara spent most of the past two years injured.

The Hawkeyes got a lift from freshman receiver Reece Vander Zee. The former Central lyon/George-Little Rock star had two touchdown receptions and finished with five catches in his collegiate debut. Vander Zee emerged during the second half of preseason camp.

Vander Zee waas asked if he was nervous at the start of the game.

Vander Zee says growing up in northwest Iowa prepared him for this moment.

With Kirk Ferentz suspended for the opener Seth Wallace served as acting coach.

Wallace says it was a good opener despite the slow start.

Wallace says Vander Zee’s play was a big lift for the Hawkeyes.