Tensions were running high between Iowa and Minnesota prior to the 1935 game, due partly to unnecessary rough play by the Golden Gophers the previous year. Iowa governor Clyde Herring said, “If the officials stand for any rough tactics like Minnesota used last year, I’m sure the crowd won’t.” To calm the fans down, the governors of both states decided to award a prize pig to the winning team. Floyd of Rosedale is now forever immortalized in bronze, but at the beginning, he was a real pig. The autumn tradition continues to this day, and hoisting the pig is always a highlight for players and fans alike.
The Homecoming Council and University of Iowa Alumni Association have been planning some great events for this year’s centennial celebration. We hope you can join us in Iowa City this fall, but if you’re unable to make it, we’ll be covering the week’s events right here on our blog. Check out the links below for more information on all the activities!
