Herky the Hawk was in Happy Valley trying to cheer on his team. He might have second thoughts after taking some friendly fire from Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley.

Early in the game, Stanley and the Hawkeyes were knocking on the door, trying to reach the end zone. On one particular play, the Iowa receivers were covered and Stanley had to throw the ball away. It was a pretty standard play.

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But poor Herky the Hawk wasn’t paying close attention and suffered the consequence. The ball bounced off the turf and caught the Iowa mascot right in the groin area.

Based on his reaction, it looks like it was pretty painful. Keep an eye on the top left corner of your screen.

Obviously it wasn’t intentional, but it just goes to show that everyone has to pay attention on Saturday afternoon. Even the mascots.

If not, you may be the next Herky the Hawk.