Iowa QB Deacon Hill has nothing but love for Wisconsin Football

Former Wisconsin backup Deacon Hill is now Iowa QB and looks ahead to a sentimental game against his old team.

Oct 7, 2023; Iowa City, Iowa, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Deacon Hill (10) warms up before the game against the Purdue Boilermakers at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports / © Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

The former Wisconsin quarterback will return home on Saturday afternoon

In a twist of fate, Saturday's game between the Wisconsin Badgers and the Iowa Hawkeyes will feature a familiar face on the opposite side – former Wisconsin backup quarterback Deacon Hill. Hill, who originally committed to Wisconsin in the class of 2021, has since made the move to Iowa, and he has been thrust into the starting role due to an injury to starter, Cade McNamara. As the game approaches, Hill recently reflected on his time at Wisconsin and the fresh start he's found with Iowa.

On his departure from Wisconsin after Paul Chryst was fired

Hill entered the transfer portal in mid-October following the firing of head coach Paul Chryst. He eventually committed to Iowa, where he was called into action as the starting quarterback due to an injury McNamara. Hill insists that his decision to move on from Wisconsin had nothing to do with the football program

“Had nothing to do with the program," Hill said. "I loved that program to death, and it was a big part of my life for a long time. It just felt like you know, I was kind of outgrowing the place, both in life and in football. I just needed a fresh start somewhere else. So yeah, that was it. There's no animosity towards Wisconsin football at all. I love those guys. I love that town. I love that program.”

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Deacon Hill Still Loves Wisconsin

During his two seasons with the Badgers, Hill, who is a former 3-star recruit, only took one snap. Despite his lack of playing time, and eventual decision to transfer, he has nothing but love for Wisconsin.

"There’s no animosity towards Wisconsin football at all," Hill said. "I love those guys. I love that town. I love that program."

Iowa quarterback Deacon Hill (10) throws the ball during the Hawkeyes' final spring NCAA football practice, Saturday, April 22, 2023, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. 230422 Iowa Spring Fb 106 Jpg :: © Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen / USA TODAY NETWORK

Two Starts, Two Wins

Despite mixed statistics, Hill has managed to secure two wins as Iowa's starter, including victories over Michigan State and Purdue. With the outcome of Saturday's game potentially determining control of the Big Ten West, this matchup could be a defining moment in Hill's young career.

So far this season, Hill has completed just 37.5% of his passes for 274 yards and two touchdowns to go along with three interceptions.

A Pivotal Game and a Fresh Start

As Deacon Hill takes the field against his former team, it's clear that his career trajectory has taken an unexpected turn. The outcome of the Wisconsin vs. Iowa game could further define his journey, making it a must-watch for football fans and a testament to the ever-changing landscape of college sports.

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