Hawkeyes Fall to Nebraska, Ending Big Ten Title Hopes
Iowa's Playoff Hopes Dashed in 24-17 Loss
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The Iowa Hawkeyes' hopes of reaching the Big Ten Championship Game came to an abrupt end on Saturday with a disappointing 24-17 loss to the Nebraska Cornhuskers. Despite entering the game as favorites, the Hawkeyes struggled to find their footing throughout the contest and ultimately paid the price.
Iowa's offense, which had been a strength for much of the season, was held in check by the Nebraska defense. Quarterback Spencer Petras completed just 15 of 27 passes for 145 yards and two interceptions, while the running game was limited to 106 yards on 32 carries. Running back Tyler Goodson led the way for the Hawkeyes with 78 yards on 18 attempts.
The defense also struggled, allowing Nebraska to convert seven of 13 third-down attempts and five of six fourth-down attempts. The Cornhuskers also controlled the time of possession, holding the ball for nearly 36 minutes of the game.
Nebraska took an early lead on a touchdown pass from quarterback Adrian Martinez to receiver Omar Manning, and the Cornhuskers never trailed again. Iowa briefly tied the game in the second quarter on a touchdown run by Goodson, but Nebraska answered right back with a touchdown pass from Martinez to receiver Samori Toure.
The Hawkeyes had a chance to tie the game in the fourth quarter, but kicker Drew Stevens missed a 53-yard field goal attempt. Nebraska then iced the game with a touchdown run by running back Rahmir Johnson.
The loss drops Iowa to 9-3 on the season and 6-3 in the Big Ten. The Hawkeyes will now finish the season with a road game against Minnesota next Saturday.
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