Knipe simply started younger players, including Clyde Williams, who was a freshman at the time.

[1] With Williams at quarterback, Iowa finished the year 2–0–1, ending the season with a 6–5 victory over rival Nebraska.

In Williams' sophomore season in 1899, Iowa faced heavily favored Chicago, coached by Amos Alonzo Stagg.

Under Williams, the Hawkeyes did not yield another point all year, winning their last seven games by a combined score of 194–0.

Less than 24 hours after the season ended, the University of Iowa accepted an invitation for membership in the Western Conference.

[4] Caspar Whitney in Collier's Magazine named Clyde Williams as the top quarterback in the West in 1899.

Chicago had won the Western Conference the previous year and handed Iowa its only blemish on the season in 1899.

After a scoreless first half, the Hawks scored two quick touchdowns early in the second period and Iowa won, 17–0.

The Hawkeyes led 28–0 before Michigan managed a field goal to prevent the shutout, the first points scored on Iowa in 1900.

The Hawkeyes won their first three games of 1901 before preparing to play fellow defending Western Conference champion, Minnesota.

It was replaced when Iowa State moved to their current facility, Jack Trice Stadium.