despite losing several seniors to graduation, the hawkeyes compiled a 9–3 regular season record in 2003. they defeated florida 37–17 in the outback bowl on january 1, 2004, for their first january win since 1959. this earned the hawkeyes a #8 national ranking in both the ap poll and coaches poll at the end of the season. offensive tackle robert gallery was that season's outland trophy winner; after the season, the oakland raiders chose him with the second overall pick in the 2004 nfl draft.