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A.J. Epenesa, Ihmir Smith-Marsette named Holiday Bowl MVPs
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Two Iowa players were named MVPs of the Holiday Bowl following a 49-24 victory over USC on Friday night.
Defensive end A.J. Epenesa was named the Defensive MVP while wide receiver Ihmir Smith-Marsette took home the Offensive MVP honors. Both players received the honors following the victory over USC during the trophy presentation.
Congrats, @ajepenesa24 and @_ihmirr_! 👏👏
Hear from the offensive and defensive MVPs after @HawkeyeFootball's Holiday Bowl win. pic.twitter.com/ElbS7GcD58
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) December 28, 2019
Epenesa picked up 2.5 sacks and forced a fumble in the victory, and was able to consistently get pressure on the quarterback. When the Hawkeyes needed a big defensive stop, Epenesa seemed to make that play.
Ihmir Smith-Marsette was the spark that ignited the Hawkeye offense in the first half. He scored a touchdown as a rusher, a receiver and kickoff return man, helping lead Iowa to a 28-17 halftime advantage. He ended the day with over 200 all-purpose yards.
With the win, Iowa finished the season with a 10-3 record.
Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB