Iowa star Jack Campbell learns of grandfather's passing following Music City Bowl

The Iowa Hawkeyes‘ 21-0 shutout victory over the Kentucky Wildcats in the Music City Bowl turned from a joyous celebration to ending on a somber note. After Iowa picked up the victory, it was revealed that star linebacker Jack Campbell‘s grandfather was involved in a fatal car accident.

According to the report, William Smith, Jr. was the victim of a one-vehicle-pedestrian accident late Friday evening. Smith was transported to Vanderbilt Medical Center, where he, unfortunately, passed due to the injuries caused by the accident.

Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz released a brief statement on behalf of the Hawkeyes football program in support of Campbell and his family.

“Our hearts are with Jack and his entire family as they grieve the tragic death of their grandfather and father, William Smith, Jr. We know Mr. Smith was a strong influence on his grandson and a fightful Hawkeye football supporter. All of us – players, coaches and staff members – OK keep the Campbell family in our thoughts and prayers during this profoundly difficult time,” said Ferentz.

Campbell, a senior linebacker for the Hawkeyes, has likely played his last game for Iowa. Against the Wildcats, the Cedar Falls, IA, native finished the game with ten tackles, eight solo, and one sack. He ended the year with 115 total tackles, 51 solo, two interceptions, one forced fumble, a fumble recovery, and a sack apiece.

The Hawkeyes and Campbell were able to finish off the season on a high note on the field with their 21-0 victory and improving to 8-5 on the season. Unfortunately, the tragic news of the untimely passing of Campbell’s grandfather has cast a somber cloud over the program. Ferentz and the Hawkeyes program’s, along with the Iowa faithful and college football fans across the country, thoughts and prayers are with the Smith/Campbell family as they navigate this difficult time.