Black Heart Gold Pants - 2020 Iowa Football vs. Nebraska Game CenterSwelling with Iowa Hawkeye pride since 2007https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47511/bhgp-fave.png2020-12-01T09:01:00-06:00http://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/rss/stream/213534122020-12-01T09:01:00-06:002020-12-01T09:01:00-06:00Iowa Football Position Grades: Nebraska
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<figcaption>Golston’s sack saves the day | Brian Ray</figcaption>
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<p>Ugly game, mediocre grades, but a win</p> <p id="FSbKOK">The Hawkeyes won. It didn’t feel great, but we won. Now that we have that out of the way, let’s take a look at how each position graded. It was an ugly game. Poor quarterback play, not much of a running game against a porous defense, wide receiver drops, chunks of yards given up to Cornhuskers at key moments. It was a frustrating game. Thankfully, the good guys scored more points than Frost’s squad. I never thought that any team could surpass my extreme dislike (I’m far too kind to use the word hatred) for the Cyclones and Gophers, and along comes Scott Frost and Nebraska and SAVES THE DAY!</p>
<h2 id="pOSGlf"><strong>Offense</strong></h2>
<h3 id="S4JNw9"><strong>QB: D+</strong></h3>
<p id="8P16T6">I thought that our running game was going to be spectacular. Then, because of this, I thought Big Spence was going to connect on a bomb. I apologize for this terrible take. I’ve never felt so scared when an Iowa quarterback drops back to pass. I guess the good news is that when we do complete a pass, it feels like the equivalent of winning the lottery. Petras was 18-30 for 193 yards, 1 INT, and 1 TD. Petras did have multiple balls dropped. A few of these I’m putting 50% on the QB. I equate it to the bored little league outfielder. As the pitcher is working slowly and can’t find the strike zone, the outfielders are almost certain the ball will never come out to them anyway. Maybe this isn’t fair of me, but our QB play is terrible. We are undefeated now if we are getting average play from this position. I will forever blame Brian Ferentz for having Petras throw it 544 times vs. <a href="https://www.insidenu.com">Northwestern</a>. </p>
<h3 id="2hO9j5"><strong>RB: C+</strong></h3>
<p id="wPLPnj">Tyler Goodson ended the day with 111 yards (3.7) on the ground and two receptions for 21 yards. Goodson got stronger as the day went on. Mekhi Sargent only carried the ball 5 times. He needed more carries, and not to the detriment of Goodson’s carries. </p>
<h3 id="idxHfF"><strong>WR/TE: C+</strong></h3>
<p id="WqRac1">Iowa’s tight ends Sam LaPorta and Shaun Beyer totaled 7 catches for 70 yards. Beyer’s one-handed snare will go on the end-of-year highlight reel. </p>
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<figcaption>Shaun Beyer hauls in a crazy catch for TEU!</figcaption>
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<p id="W0zw4I">The wide receivers didn’t account for much on the day. Tyrone Tracy did get on the board in what I’ve been told is called a touchdown thrown to a member of the offense. There were multiple drops. I thought Nico Ragaini should have grabbed a nice ball from Petras. It would have been a nice catch, but Ragaini “missed” the ball, catching the back half of the football. How different would we feel about Petras’ game if Ragaini hauls this in? Without the TE’s here, Iowa’s much-hype WR’s would be in the D range.</p>
<h3 id="6ZvQyj"><strong>OL: C</strong></h3>
<p id="itCwid">Iowa’s offensive line has been playing some dominating football lately. Not so much on Friday. While only allowing one sack, Iowa’s front five struggled in the running game. The Hawks averaged less than three yards a rush against a pretty bad Nebraska defense. </p>
<h2 id="gBojyM"><strong>Defense</strong></h2>
<h3 id="77C68h"><strong>DL: B+</strong></h3>
<p id="4R2GkT">Our defensive line didn’t play as well as they have as of late, but Iowa’s D-line made plays late when it counted. Daviyon Nixon (8 tackles, 1 sack, 3 TFL) and Chauncy Golston (4 tackles, 1 sack, 1 FF) cleaned up in crunch time. Zach VanValkenburg had a beautiful in-air fumble recovery to seal the deal. Iowa gave up more yards to a below average Nebby team than expected. The end of the game helped bump this grade up. </p>
<h3 id="4wwQ2n"><strong>LB: B-</strong></h3>
<p id="IkaIbl">The Hawks gave up 143 rushing yards to the Cornhuskers and 195 yards through the air. Not ideal considering Nebby’s QB’s aren’t very good. Nick Niemann continued to be all over the place with 12 tackles. Jack Campbell continues to show he has a bright present and future as he had 2 TFL, one of which was spectacular. </p>
<h3 id="a2C2VW"><strong>DB/Cash: C+/B-</strong></h3>
<p id="zLbu5Q">Iowa’s secondary was solid in coverage and in run support. Matt Hankins tallied 9 tackles to lead the way. Dane Belton had a Bob Sanders-esque hit that was textbook and completely legal. He hit Nebby dude so hard I was expecting a flag. I wonder how many flags Hitman Bob Sanders would get if he played in this day and age of football. </p>
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<img alt="Purdue v Iowa" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/P6Tz0yZ1pEUpoNCcGv9o2h1V1pY=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/22128565/1182934036.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Matthew Holst/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>I’m Bob Sanders and I approve of Dane Belton</figcaption>
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<h2 id="3uJPcS"><strong>Special Teams: A-</strong></h2>
<p id="jV1cuU">Punting is winning! Tory Taylor had another nice day. He punted for an average of 40.5 yards. One of the biggest plays was the muffed punt by Nebraska. Keith Duncan made 4 field goals, missing only from 51 yards out when it hit the crossbar. How much does Duncan love kicking Nebby’s butt!? Charlie Fearless Jones had two punt returns for 39 yards. </p>
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https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/2020/12/1/21725376/iowa-hawkeye-football-position-grades-nebraska-cornhuskers-spencer-petras-shaun-beyer-bhgpBartt Pierce2020-12-01T06:49:12-06:002020-12-01T06:49:12-06:00The Rewatch: Nebraska
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<figcaption>Photo by Matthew Holst/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Daviyon Nixon plays big brother and tosses Nebraska to the side</p> <hr class="p-entry-hr" id="ho41d7">
<p id="jHoZBW"><em><strong>“I mean what are we talking about? It’s football.”</strong></em><strong> - Kirk Ferentz (post game)</strong></p>
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<p id="uNJvyN">It wasn’t until after Iowa earned their 6th consecutive victory over Nebraska that the fireworks truly started. Nebraska head coach Scott Frost complained to the media that someone on Iowa’s sideline was clapping, and it was leading to the snap issues they were having during the first half. Kirk Ferentz wasn’t having it an dropped an eye roll that would make teenage girls jealous.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">going in the Kirk Ferentz reaction folder <a href="https://t.co/6rJSUdqNHm">pic.twitter.com/6rJSUdqNHm</a></p>— Heavens! (@HeavensFX) <a href="https://twitter.com/HeavensFX/status/1333028746039881731?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2020</a>
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<h3 id="KYNTkT"><strong>Tale of the turnovers</strong></h3>
<p id="iqHdY5">It was another game between the border rivals that came down to the final possession. While Iowa has looked much better than Nebraska during much of the season, Nebraska was able to avoid the issue that has plagued them most this season, turnovers, until the 4th quarter.</p>
<p id="3q7eoT">With a 3 point lead early in the 4th quarter, Iowa is forced to punt from their own end of the field. The future All-American Tory Taylor once again shows what a weapon he is as he bombs a swinging kick that drifts on the returner. For the second time this season, the punt returner cannot handle the kick and special teams superstar Terry Roberts recovers the fumble. </p>
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<p id="y94bxO">When slowing the video way down, you can see Taylor kicks the ball with the tip of the ball down creating a less predictable flight (as opposed to a spiral that carries more like a pass).</p>
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<p id="BRAcvf">The second 4th quarter turnover was the one that locked up the victory. Nebraska had just completed a big gain to push into Iowa territory with just over a minute to go needing a touchdown to win. As Martinez scans to his left, Chauncey Golston makes a big time play tossing the right guard to the side and finishing off Martinez. Golston can put this one not only on a highlight film, but in the textbooks as well. He perfectly closes on Martinez by putting his head on his throwing shoulder, left arm to the passing arm, and right arm around the quarterback’s waist. It is everything you want to see on a sack.</p>
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<p id="CeJZiu">The ball floats in the air and is caught by the ever alert Zach VanValkenburg. Because the ball does not carom forward, it is ruled a fumble and recovery. Through six games, VanValkenburg now has an amazing four fumble recoveries. With this being officially ruled a fumble, it ended Iowa’s consecutive games with an interception streak.</p>
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<h3 id="P4u37W"><strong>Move them back</strong></h3>
<p id="34lVOT">Through 6 games, the number that continues to jump off the page is the number of tackles for loss that are being generated by the Hawkeye defense. </p>
<p id="R3i1OE">When running a jet sweep, an offensive coordinator would not normally be concerned about the defensive tackle ruining the play on the outside. As we know, Daviyon Nixon is not a normal player. Iowa’s defensive line runs a twist with both defensive ends looping to the inside behind the defensive tackles. Nixon takes an outside release and shoots the gap between the offensive guard and tackle. That is just the first step, as he uses his impressive agility to beat the receiver to his spot and then toss him down like a big brother toying with his younger sibling. </p>
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<p id="UIpivc">Nixon wasn’t done there as he consistently punished the right side of Nebraska’s offensive line. It keeps happening, but each time I’m equally impressed as he beats a lineman and then finishes the tackle with a lineman still holding on to him for dear life. </p>
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<p id="L2ESFQ">That right guard is hoping no one else watches this film.</p>
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<h3 id="O858sI"><strong>Campbell’s Impact</strong></h3>
<p id="km3A5M">Iowa has found a trio of linebackers who are playing at a really high level at this point in the season. We were quick to find out how much of an impact not having Seth Benson and Jack Campbell was in the opening game against Purdue. Nick Niemann, the veteran of the group, has settled into his role at WILL by racking up 29 tackles in his past two games.</p>
<p id="ge6gT1">Campbell is the one from that group who continues to open my eyes during the rewatch. I’m pretty sure I’ve mentioned it nearly each week he has played, but his ability to cover ground is especially exceptional given his 6’5” 243 pound frame. </p>
<p id="lUswqc">He starts as in interior linebacker on the opposite side of the field to where the zone read play is headed. Once he sees the play, his instincts take over as he shoots the seam and finishes off the tackle for loss. The speed at which he closes from the opposite side of the field is truly a rare ability. It is comical watching the right tackle try to make a block on him but he isn’t able to get within six feet of Campbell.</p>
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<p id="GGNddH"><em>Side note: I would not recommend trying to read a guy like Nixon with Campbell attacking the other option. It will not end well for the offense.</em></p>
<p id="ZvLJZJ"><em>Nebraska has a well time screen pass, and everything is looking like a big play as the ball is released. The issue is that Campbell is just too quick and the right guard, yes him again, whiffs on his block. Instead of a big play for the Huskers, it is a two yard loss to set up 2nd and 22.</em></p>
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<h3 id="mVBO0K"><strong>Play off the run</strong></h3>
<p id="CoXhLP">It is no secret that Iowa wants to dominate the ground game. Sophomore Tyler Goodson showed the full trust of the coaches as he recorded a career high 30 carries. Nebraska’s run defense was shredded the week before against Illinois, but performed much better against Iowa. During his post game, Kirk Ferentz mentioned that Nebraska did a few new things up front and mixed up gap coverages. It took until a few halftime adjustments before Iowa was able to mount any movement on the ground.</p>
<p id="1nwXBp">A team who is struggling to stop the run needs to get more guys involved and help prevent a cutback as the defense flows to the ball. Iowa took advantage of boundary corner leaving the receiver once he sees Spencer Petras open up for the handoff. Instead, Petras whips around to hit Brandon Smith who is coming back for a screen. Alaric Jackson peels off the line to be the lead blocker as Smith picks up 12 yards.</p>
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<h4 id="hnISca"><em>Iowa came back to this play in the 4th quarter but the pass was a little low and dropped by Smith as he tried to catch it and get up field.</em></h4>
<p id="i9zz3h"><em>One of my favorite plays that Iowa is running this year is the skinny post off of play action. From shotgun, the fake to Sargent brings the play side linebacker forward two yards. That is just enough to create a passing lane to Ihmir Smith-Marsette who does an excellent job hanging on to the pass as the safety takes his legs out and flips him over.</em></p>
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<p id="r81U5a">One of Iowa’s most effective run concept this year has been misdirection off of a quarterback reverse pivot. Near the goal line, Iowa uses this concept, but with play action to hit Tyrone Tracy Jr for a touchdown. The reverse pivot take a little extra time, and creates a lot of traffic in the middle of the field. After Tracy fakes his crash block, he crosses the field for an open touchdown. This is the same concept Tracy scored on last year against <a href="https://www.onthebanks.com">Rutgers</a>.</p>
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<h3 id="u71QhN"><strong>Nonlinear Route</strong></h3>
<p id="GeYLdw">One of my favorite play calls of the game was on 3rd and 8 in the 3rd quarter. Iowa has meshing routes on both sides of the field. To the boundary, Brandon Smith sets a rub for Tyler Goodson running a wheel route out of the backfield, which was well covered by Nebraska. To the field side, Sam LaPorta’s route forces the safety, who is covering Nico Ragaini in the slot, to wait and go behind him. Ragaini runs a whip route and is wide open as he breaks to the sideline. It is a pass well short of the sticks but an easy first down. I’d really like to see more of these types of routes to get guys like Ragaini, Tracy, or Smith-Marsette. It creates a lot of pressure on the defense to not overplay the shallow cross and would allow those guys a chance to make plays in the open field.</p>
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<h3 id="XqNniL"><strong>Cumulative effect of the run game</strong></h3>
<p id="KnXkcy">As mentioned earlier, the run game was a real struggle in the first half. Nebraska did an excellent job limiting Iowa’s ability to consistently pick up 4 to 5 yards and kept Iowa’s offense from being able to dictate down and distance. </p>
<p id="RqkWWd">In the 3rd quarter, Iowa was not able to break big runs, but began to stay on schedule with 4 to 6 yard carries. It wasn't anything that would traditionally be put on a highlight reel, but it was an important step for this offense to maintain their commitment to running the ball. Goodson carried the ball 19 times for 87 yards, 4.6 ypc, in the second half.</p>
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<p id="IQwT2J">The effect of those carries is not a touchdown run, but an important first down carry where Goodson breaks the first tackle and then, along with the help of a few lineman, move a pile of Nebraska defenders an additional 5 yards downfield. This allows Iowa to keep draining the clock and also pushes them into field goal range.</p>
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<p id="CKWFZq">All of these runs helped to open up play action for one of the most important plays of the game. Following a short loss on first down, Iowa needs to find a way to keep moving the chains and eating more clock. With the success of the run game, a simple play action waggle goes for a big gain and first down.</p>
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<h3 id="9miJbm"><strong>Jones show</strong></h3>
<p id="KdnxNW">Charlie Jones has brought a spark to Iowa’s special teams with his fearless punt returning. After two big punt returns, Nebraska started kicking short or to the sidelines. In return, Nebraska only averaged 37 yards per punt and just 29 net yards. Those numbers helped flip the field in Iowa’s advantage numerous times. </p>
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<p id="2i7GXe">Keith Duncan was the Big Ten Special Teams Player of the Week with his 4 made field goals, but I feel a case could be made for both Taylor and Jones for what they do to help Iowa in the field position battle.</p>
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<p id="cQi55i">Traditionally a victory over Nebraska leads the Hawkeyes into a long break prior to a bowl game. This year, they will not be able to enjoy the win for quite as much time, but we as fans sure can soak this one in for as long as we want. I’ll be clapping for a while.</p>
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https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/2020/12/1/21754673/iowa-hawkeye-football-the-rewatch-nebraska-cornhuskers-spencer-petras-bhgptnels202020-11-30T09:01:00-06:002020-11-30T09:01:00-06:00Iowa Football Stats to Watch Recap: Nebby
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<img alt="COLLEGE FOOTBALL: NOV 17 Iowa at Illinois" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/PMqlkUVk0ejYmpcGdkiGIl0Ggx4=/0x2:3000x2002/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67999801/1063545238.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>This clap thing will never get old | Photo by Michael Allio/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>It was pretty ugly, but became oh so sweet</p> <h3 id="OFbR6N"><strong>Clap, clap, clap your hands</strong></h3>
<p id="O4yMyA">My apologies if thre arr numrous typpos en thees artikle. Wheel of Fortune is on in the other room and I’m having a hard time concentrating and typing with all of the ....... clapping. Scott Frost and his Nebby boys are just the gifts that keep on giving. Iowa played a pretty bad game, and the mustachioed boys started thinking they weren’t terrible, and it looked a little tenuous. But then Nebby decided to Nebby and the universe is back to the way it should be. </p>
<p id="cz7emi">The stat to watch focused on running the football and stopping the run. Old school stuff. Let’s take a look at how this unfolded. </p>
<h3 id="IzzPOn"><strong>Iowa’s rushing attack</strong></h3>
<p id="RZRpIy">Coming into the game, Nebraska was allowing over 223 yards on the ground. Iowa netted 129 yards running the football. Tyler Goodson had 111 (3.7). Mekhi Sargent only toted the ball 5 times. He needs more than that. I’m not saying that Goodson should have received less than the 30 carries he got, either. The running game didn’t look very sharp on the day. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Nebraska v Iowa" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/VCp30iRjkYczilU-eCxAq7hmGkU=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/22126958/1229820982.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Matthew Holst/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Jack Campbell is playing some football</figcaption>
</figure>
<h3 id="NQi6ph"><strong>Hawkeyes’ run defense</strong></h3>
<p id="Pm1ySP">Prior to Friday’s game, Iowa was allowing just over 100 yards on the ground. Nebraska ended up with 143 yards rushing on the day. Adrian Martinez and Luke McCaffrey netted 70 yards on the ground. Nebraska averaged 3.8 yards per carry to Iowa’s 2.9. Iowa’s defense didn’t look as dominant as it had the past few games, but when push came to shove the defense stepped up. </p>
<h3 id="Kn6eI0"><strong>Frustrating, but a win is a win</strong></h3>
<p id="6ob8sL">Iowa was building on establishing a powerful run game as an identity. This took a step back. Right now Spencer Petras is struggling. This will make establishing the run both more difficult and more important to continue to win. </p>
https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/2020/11/30/21723978/iowa-hawkeye-football-stats-to-watch-recap-nebraska-cornhuskers-clap-kirk-ferentz-bhgpBartt Pierce2020-11-27T13:39:19-06:002020-11-27T13:39:19-06:00IOWA FOOTBALL VS NEBRASKA SECOND HALF GAME THREAD
<figure>
<img alt="NCAA Football: Nebraska at Iowa" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/H_dxFar6U--_8QGWFC4-bisD1KY=/0x0:4298x2865/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67990853/usa_today_15239491.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Not what we expected in the first half | Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Welp...</p> <p id="9qjKp9">The first half didn’t exactly go as planned in Iowa City as the Iowa defense has given up nearly 100 yards on the ground while the Hawkeyes haven’t even gotten 50 on the ground themselves. We saw Spencer start off about as well as we’ve seen all season before the wheels seemed to fall off with a brutally bad interception. When it was all said and done, we’re tied at 13. Can Iowa figure things out in the second half or will the streak of wins over Nebraska stop here?</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/KC7yTrzzMQoPLKkozlZdsQB106w=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/22125667/C13E10F3_668E_4059_9029_4F4C26754F3F.jpeg">
<cite>Image via ESPN</cite>
</figure>
<p id="o2uEhJ">Don’t forget to get subscribed to the pod so you can listen in to the instant reaction on the After Party immediately following today’s game.</p>
<p id="hAptry"><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1276773014"><strong>Apple Podcasts</strong></a><br><a href="https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vVk1QMjgyODk1OTg3Nw%3D%3D"><strong>Google Podcasts</strong></a><br><a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/7r9nzBc93ubuwXIkl1fI32"><strong>Spotify</strong></a><br><a href="http://www.stitcher.com/podcast//vox/black-heart-gold-pants-for-iowa-hawkeyes-fans"><strong>Stitcher</strong></a><br><a href="http://feeds.megaphone.fm/VMP2828959877"><strong>RSS Feed</strong></a></p>
<div id="vW68Qr"><iframe frameborder="0" src="https://playlist.megaphone.fm?p=VMP2828959877" width="100%" height="482"></iframe></div>
<p id="hBOBst">Go Hawks!</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="NCAA FOOTBALL: OCT 11 Indiana at Iowa" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/aEUfqgIyjNDuaQbGpx-3isA2T68=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/22003845/579016196.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Keith Gillett/Icon Sportswire/Corbis/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>I!</figcaption>
</figure>
https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/2020/11/27/21722152/iowa-football-vs-nebraska-second-half-game-threadJPinIC2020-11-27T11:31:00-06:002020-11-27T11:31:00-06:00IOWA FOOTBALL VS NEBRASKA FIRST HALF GAME THREAD
<figure>
<img alt="NCAA Football: Iowa at Nebraska" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/SQpI5VriNT3VYez8IMnHU0SulRI=/0x100:3982x2755/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67990311/usa_today_13727554.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Can we just avoid another close game, please? | Bruce Thorson-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Six in row has a nice ring to it!</p> <p id="9qjKp9">The <a href="https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/">Hawkeyes</a> are riding a heater. They’ve won three straight in blowout fashion after taking down Penn State 41-21 last week. The <a href="https://www.cornnation.com">Nebraska Cornhuskers</a>, on the other hand, have lost three of four games this season after a loss at Illinois last week. The Hawkeyes are also riding a 5-game winning streak against Nebraska. Can they make it six in a row over their rivals to the west? We’re about to find out!</p>
<p id="wYI76l">Here’s a quick reminder on the details:</p>
<p id="o2uEhJ"><strong>Who: </strong>Nebraska Cornhuskers (1-3) at <a href="https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/">Iowa Hawkeyes (3-2)</a> <br><strong>When:</strong> 12:00 pm CT<br><strong>Where: </strong>Kinnick Stadium - Iowa City, IA<br><strong>Forecast:</strong> Sunny, temps in the mid-40s with winds 10-15mph<br><strong>TV:</strong> FOX<br><strong>Video Streaming:</strong> <a href="http://foxsportsgo.com/">FoxSportsGo.com</a> <br><strong>Radio: </strong>Hawkeye Radio Network (<a href="https://affiliateresources.learfieldimgcollege.com/iowa-hawkeyes/">click to find your local station</a>)<br><strong>Audio Streaming: </strong><a href="https://tunein.com/radio/Iowa-Football-s231143/">TuneIn Radio</a><br><strong>Betting Line: </strong>Iowa -13.5, O/U 53.5</p>
<p id="eCY4s6">Usual rules apply. Report the spam bots and play nice. Don’t forget to get subscribed to the pod so you can listen in to the instant reaction on the After Party immediately following today’s game.</p>
<p id="hAptry"><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1276773014"><strong>Apple Podcasts</strong></a><br><a href="https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vVk1QMjgyODk1OTg3Nw%3D%3D"><strong>Google Podcasts</strong></a><br><a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/7r9nzBc93ubuwXIkl1fI32"><strong>Spotify</strong></a><br><a href="http://www.stitcher.com/podcast//vox/black-heart-gold-pants-for-iowa-hawkeyes-fans"><strong>Stitcher</strong></a><br><a href="http://feeds.megaphone.fm/VMP2828959877"><strong>RSS Feed</strong></a></p>
<div id="vW68Qr"><iframe frameborder="0" src="https://playlist.megaphone.fm?p=VMP2828959877" width="100%" height="482"></iframe></div>
<p id="hBOBst">Go Hawks!</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="NCAA FOOTBALL: OCT 11 Indiana at Iowa" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/aEUfqgIyjNDuaQbGpx-3isA2T68=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/22003845/579016196.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Keith Gillett/Icon Sportswire/Corbis/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>I!</figcaption>
</figure>
https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/2020/11/27/21720516/iowa-hawkey-football-vs-nebraska-cornhuskers-first-half-game-thread-bhgpJPinIC2020-11-27T07:01:00-06:002020-11-27T07:01:00-06:00Iowa Football vs Nebraska: How to Watch, Listen + Updated Betting Line, Weather and More
<figure>
<img alt="NCAA Football: Indiana at Nebraska" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/qE1X6HjhBvxF5ldjRdC1QMx8fow=/0x0:5472x3648/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67989235/usa_today_13573271.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Scott Frost has never beaten Iowa. | Bruce Thorson-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Since we got ‘That’s Football’ in 2014, the Hawkeyes haven’t lost to the Huskers.</p> <p id="UhBKI4">It’s Black Friday and while this year is certainly not normal, we all no doubt stuffed our faces yesterday. Now we get to stuff our eyeballs with loads of football, including a showdown between the <a href="https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com">Iowa Hawkeyes</a> and <a href="https://www.cornnation.com">Nebraska Cornhuskers</a>.</p>
<p id="0SCOUU">The two programs come into today’s matchup heading in opposite directions. Iowa has won three straight in blowout fashion and have won the last five meetings with the Huskers. Nebraska, on the other hand, have played just four games this season, losing three. That includes a disappointing loss a week ago to Illinois.</p>
<p id="kTk6Do">As we start the countdown to kickoff, here’s everything you need to know about today’s matchup.</p>
<p id="o2uEhJ"><strong>Who: </strong>Nebraska Cornhuskers (1-3) at <a href="https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/">Iowa Hawkeyes (3-2)</a> <br><strong>When:</strong> 12:00 pm CT<br><strong>Where: </strong>Kinnick Stadium - Iowa City, IA<br><strong>Forecast:</strong> Sunny, temps in the mid-40s with winds 10-15mph<br><strong>TV:</strong> FOX<br><strong>Video Streaming:</strong> <a href="http://FoxSportsGo.com">FoxSportsGo.com</a> <br><strong>Radio: </strong>Hawkeye Radio Network (<a href="https://affiliateresources.learfieldimgcollege.com/iowa-hawkeyes/">click to find your local station</a>)<br><strong>Audio Streaming: </strong><a href="https://tunein.com/radio/Iowa-Football-s231143/">TuneIn Radio</a><br><strong>Betting Line: </strong>Iowa -13.5, O/U 53.5</p>
<h2 id="cdXOML">Game Prep</h2>
<p id="hQbyJE">As you count down to kickoff, be sure to check out all of our coverage from throughout the week. You can easily access everything Penn State related in the <a href="https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/2020/11/22/21589371/2020-iowa-hawkeye-football-vs-nebraska-cornhuskers-game-center-bhgp"><strong>Nebraska at Iowa Game Center</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p>
<p id="ocecWt">Below are a few key items from throughout the week:</p>
<p id="7OxTBe"><strong>Preseason Opponent Preview: </strong><a href="https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/2020/8/13/21365144/hawkeye-football-opponent-preview-nebraska-cornhuskers-iowa-scott-frost-kirk-ferentz-big-ten-12">Hawkeye Football Opponent Preview: Nebraska</a><br><strong>Opponent Season Preview:</strong> <a href="https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/2020/11/24/21590547/iowa-hawkeye-football-in-their-own-words-nebraska-cornhuskers-scott-frost-adrian-martinez-bhgp">In Their Own Words: Nebraska</a><br><strong>Opponent Q&A:</strong> <a href="https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/2020/11/26/21720446/iowa-hawkeye-football-five-questions-on-nebraska-cornhuskers-luke-mccaffrey-adrian-martinez-bhgp">Five Questions on Nebraska</a><br><strong>Matchup to Watch: </strong><a href="https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/2020/11/26/21721260/matchup-to-watch-iowa-hawkeyes-football-defensive-tackles-vs-nebraska-cornhuskers-interior-line-bhgp">Daviyon Nixon vs. Nebraska’s Interior OL</a> <br><strong>Stats to Watch:</strong> <a href="https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/2020/11/26/21707913/iowa-hawkeye-football-stats-watch-nebraska-cornhuskers-keith-duncan-tyler-goodson-mekhi-sargent-bhgp">Iowa Football Stat to Watch: Nebraska</a><br><strong>Game Preview: </strong><a href="https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/2020/11/26/21721200/iowa-hawkeye-football-opponent-preview-nebraska-cornhuskers-luke-mccaffrey-adrian-martinez-bhgp">Iowa Football Opponent Preview: Nebraska</a><br><strong>Staff Predictions:</strong> <a href="https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/2020/11/26/21719203/the-pants-predicts-nebraska-cornhuskers-at-iowa-hawkeyes-football-bhgp">The Pants Predicts: Iowa vs Nebraska</a></p>
<p id="jkhga2">Don’t forget to subscribe to the Black Heart Gold Pants podcast feed. You can catch a fresh episode of The Pants Party and the All Eyes Podcast every week with game recaps, previews and everything in between. And be sure to check in immediately following each game as we give our instant reaction and quick recap of every Iowa game this season on the After Party. Subscribe below!</p>
<p id="hAptry"><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1276773014"><strong>Apple Podcasts</strong></a><br><a href="https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vVk1QMjgyODk1OTg3Nw%3D%3D"><strong>Google Podcasts</strong></a><br><a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/7r9nzBc93ubuwXIkl1fI32"><strong>Spotify</strong></a><br><a href="http://www.stitcher.com/podcast//vox/black-heart-gold-pants-for-iowa-hawkeyes-fans"><strong>Stitcher</strong></a><br><a href="http://feeds.megaphone.fm/VMP2828959877"><strong>RSS Feed</strong></a></p>
<div id="vW68Qr"><iframe frameborder="0" src="https://playlist.megaphone.fm?p=VMP2828959877" width="100%" height="482"></iframe></div>
<p id="hBOBst">Go Hawks!</p>
<p id="J62A96"></p>
https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/2020/11/27/21719711/iowa-hawkeye-football-vs-nebraska-how-to-watch-listen-updated-betting-line-weather-and-moreJPinIC2020-11-26T14:01:00-06:002020-11-26T14:01:00-06:00The Pants Predicts: Nebraska at Iowa
<figure>
<img alt="NCAA Football: Iowa at Nebraska" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/WS9-vIqpyQA2H0N2G6x7UOVKG08=/0x0:5472x3648/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67987658/usa_today_13727555.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Can Iowa bring home the Heroes Trophy for a sixth straight year? | Bruce Thorson-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>This is going to give us all heartburn, isn’t it?</p> <p id="mLpMmE">Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at The Pants to all of you, wherever you may be and however you may be celebrating this year. </p>
<p id="UWn63e">Hawkeye fans everywhere are hoping to have more to celebrate tomorrow as Iowa plays host to the <a href="https://www.cornnation.com">Nebraska Cornhuskers</a> in search of their sixth straight win over the Big Red. The Hawkeyes opened as 12-point favorites in this one, but that moved up to 13.5 later in the week as pessimism following Nebraska’s loss to Illinois seems to have set in.</p>
<p id="XOlCMH">At BHGP, we’re largely feeling optimistic about this one with only two staffer taking Nebraska straight up. Those two picks do skew the totals a bit, however, as we’re predicting an average score of Iowa 30, Nebraska 26. That puts us officially on the Huskers to cover the spread and frankly given the last two meetings between these two teams, that makes some sense. Our average prediction also has us on the over of 53.5, which is a bit surprising given how good Iowa’s defense has looked.</p>
<p id="J7xtAZ">Here’s a look at our individual predictions for Friday’s matchup.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="BegZaT">
<h3 id="A2xM8b"><strong>JPinIC</strong></h3>
<p id="wIcihG">Look, I’m starting to buy in to this Iowa team a little bit. Is there something still to be desired from Spencer Petras? Absolutely. Could we have some better playcalling from time to time? You bet. But I’m in on this running game and this defense. The Hawkeyes have been pounding the ball on the ground and Nebraska has shown little ability to stop that to-date. On the flip side, Iowa’s defense has been creating turnovers and proven stingy in the RedZone. That sounds like a recipe for success.</p>
<p id="Niw8vJ">Which is why I’m on Nebraska. I’ve been an Iowa fan long enough to know that just when you start expecting success the rug is about to be pulled out from under you. The last two games in this series have come down to field goals and I think this one does too. It feels like a game where Petras has a bad interception, we have another fumble inside the 10 and the defense gives up one big play to WanDale Robinson (because they only allow the other team’s best weapon to do anything, apparently) and next thing you know it’s trouble.</p>
<p id="CCdwLx"><strong>Nebraska 27, Iowa 24</strong></p>
<h3 id="ysXj0X"><strong>Mattcabel</strong></h3>
<p id="HrHfOs">Nebraska sucks. </p>
<p id="3oL7B9">That’s it, that’s the prediction. </p>
<p id="AFMRDy"><strong>Iowa 42, Nebraska 10 </strong></p>
<h3 id="pPxKJ0"><strong>tnels20</strong></h3>
<p id="D30mvy">Every year this is the game I find myself worrying about the most. Usually, it is the final regular season game and a win or loss lingers for a long time following the trophy game. This year, I feel the best I’ve maybe ever felt going into it, and that is what makes me even more worried. Iowa has dominated the point of attack all year, and Nebraska has been pushed around all year.</p>
<p id="G2gjRC">My expectation is Iowa to run the ball effectively and force Nebraska to bring safeties and linebackers to help. Nico Ragaini and Tyrone Tracy are the benefactors of this with a few big plays making yards after the catch. Nebraska will have a few trick plays up their sleeves (they are soft and will wear sleeves), but will also turn the ball over multiple times. </p>
<p id="RhfoH4"><strong>Iowa 31, Nebraska 23</strong></p>
<h3 id="I1C0tz"><strong>Ben</strong></h3>
<p id="HQ4bdo">Which player is Scott Frost going to throw under the bus this week? I hope it’s not Iowa’s former No. 5 (and would be No. 6) wide receiver! </p>
<p id="TUUDDa"><strong>Iowa 44, Nebraska 11</strong></p>
<h3 id="NKlpJO"><strong>Bartt Pierce</strong></h3>
<p id="h8nUyR">I am the epitome of a superstitious, broken record. I won’t go game by game any more. I predicted Iowa would win the first two and we lost. I have since picked against our boys... and you know the deal. Nebraska is the most-storied football program in the history of anything. Sorry to <a href="https://www.bruinsnation.com">UCLA</a> basketball, Iowa wrestling, the Harlem Globetrotters, some lacrosse team out east and you get the picture. Luke McCaffrey and Adrian Martinez will both run and pass for 600 yards. Phil Parker will decide he has become disinterested with the whole football thing. I’ve heard he has been seen at The Home Depot quite a bit lately looking into peel and stick flooring. Good call, Coach. It’s a cost-effective way of updating a place. </p>
<p id="6Jeao2">Brian Ferentz is going to try to set the single game passing record of 83 tosses a game. I think this is solid reasoning. I’m predicting right now that Nebby wins this one going away. </p>
<p id="SCidIA">Cornholers, set your VCR’s, get on your Starter jackets, and step foot in that time machine. We’re gonna party like it’s 1997. Go Hawks! Matt Campbell has publicly stated he wants nothing to do with this dumpster fire.</p>
<p id="2jl5pu"><strong>Nebraska 55, Hawks 2</strong></p>
<h3 id="w96jqi"><strong>BoilerHawk</strong></h3>
<p id="a2Vtof">If there is anyone enjoy Nebraska’s downfall more than me, I would like to meet them. I cannot get enough of the disarray Lincoln finds itself in, week after week, year after year.</p>
<p id="JVPoeX">This means, of course, I’m horrified about the possibilities for tomorrow’s showdown. Nebraska has absolutely nothing to lose and, <em>/extreme Bill Simmons voice, </em>believe it’s a kitchen sink game in that regard.</p>
<p id="WDhpLt">We’re going to see Adrian Martinez and Luke McCaffrey in the backfield. Double passes, triple passes, maybe even a quadruple pass. Will Iowa be ready? I think so. The defensive line is playing with its hair on fire and Nebraska’s QBs are shaky enough in the pass game, I expect at least one interception.</p>
<p id="3DFzkz">The question will be if Iowa can play extremely clean & consistent on offense and convert touchdowns instead of field goals. I think they will, but expect it to be a close one.</p>
<p id="oDRLTF"><strong>Iowa 35, Nebraska 31</strong></p>
<p id="p02wDN"><strong>Rob Donaldson</strong></p>
<p id="e5lKQm">From my perspective, this game has all the makings of another blowout win for the Hawks. I truly do believe that Iowa’s ground game will explode this Friday, especially because of how dominant Iowa’s offensive line has looked along with Monte Pottebaum and Shaun Beyer.</p>
<p id="AojmUo">Regardless of which quarterback Nebraska trots out there, the likelihood of that position committing a turnover or multiple in this game will be high when you factor in how good Iowa’s defensive front has looked in every game this season. </p>
<p id="2JOtDg">It’s really hard to find any sort of edge in this game for Nebraska and I don’t think this one is somewhat close. </p>
<p id="rsvjDS"><strong>Iowa 43, Nebraska 17</strong></p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="PucnqF">
<p id="RQu46N">So that’s what we’re predicting, what day you Hawkeye fans?</p>
https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/2020/11/26/21719203/the-pants-predicts-nebraska-cornhuskers-at-iowa-hawkeyes-football-bhgpJPinICBenjaminRossBoilerHawkmattcabeltnels20Bartt PierceRobDonaldson2020-11-26T12:33:00-06:002020-11-26T12:33:00-06:00Iowa Football: Five Questions on Nebraska
<figure>
<img alt="NCAA Football: Illinois at Nebraska" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/wuyO909MdcqOR1QWDqFMzcTvlQE=/0x0:3611x2407/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67987408/usa_today_15221241.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Who will lead Nebraska’s offense on Friday? | Bruce Thorson-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>We’ve got five questions to find out if Iowa can make it six in a row.</p> <p id="ezOy7p">Happy Thanksgiving Hawkeye fans. Hope you’re able to enjoy some semblance of normalcy in this abnormal world. As we prepare for the Black Friday showdown between the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Nebraska Cornhuskers, we’re looking for more insight on what this Nebraska team brings to the table. </p>
<p id="X8E8hA">We noted earlier in the week that things have changed a bit since preseason expectations were released, so we went back to the well to get an updated look at the Cornhuskers from Andy Ketterson at Corn Nation.</p>
<p id="PZSlxM">Here’s a look at our conversation.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="mkBnIE">
<p id="lab3iF"><strong>BHGP: Things have not exactly gone according to plan in Lincoln this year between the Wisconsin game being cancelled and the 1-3 start, capped by the loss last week. What has gone wrong for the Cornhuskers and what do you see as the main cause for the disappointing start?</strong></p>
<p id="AUnp6v">CN: To be honest, at 1-2 I was thinking, this is about what I expected (including having a game cancelled because of Covid, haha but not really haha). I thought the Ohio St. game was more competitive than the score indicated, we outgained Northwestern by a bunch and, while I didn’t like the way we backed into it (more on that coming, I’m sure), hanging on against Penn St was a solid job by the defense aggressively not breaking on the last two stands.</p>
<p id="bxtZ6t">But Illinois, MAH GAWD, as Jim Ross would say.</p>
<p id="VcYHFa">It’s so hard to pick just one thing, but the fact practice was said to be less than full effort, putting it mildly, was disturbing. We can talk about individual breakdown areas on both sides of the ball, but, right now, it still appears to be attitude, state of mind and execution. People can put it on the coaches, but if you’re 18-22 years old and playing D1 football and can’t self-motivate, you’ve got issues. Coaches should just be focusing on execution. If a player at that level can’t take the effort on himself, that’s big red warning light.</p>
<p id="MKyM7h">On the coaching side, the biggest thing I will put on Frost is his ultra-conservative play-calling when he gets a lead. At Oregon as the OC and at UCF, he put the gas on the floor and went for the kill. Perhaps the pressure to win where it means the most to him is making him hesitant, but he needs to get that swagger and mojo back and sooner rather than later.</p>
<p id="oy1iaW"><strong>BHGP: We’ve seen a fair amount of both Adrian Martinez and Luke McCaffrey this year, who should Hawkeye fans expect to see more of on Friday and what do each bring to the table?</strong></p>
<p id="sEY1lE">CN: It’s anybody’s guess who lines up in the shotgun first and we won’t know until the offense trots out, but I’m going to say it’ll be Adrian at QB with Luke being slotted in all over. Luke’s inaccurate deeper throws allow a defense to jam 8-9 guys in the box. Adrian’s deep balls haven’t been great, but McCaffrey’s deep throws were simply awful. He badly missed, and in a couple cases flat out ignored, wide open guys deep downfield.</p>
<p id="DFOKd8"><strong>BHGP: Despite limited scoring output in the three losses this season, Nebraska did put up 30 points on Penn State and has found success running the ball, averaging nearly 200 yards per game. The vast majority of that has come from the QB spot with no RB over 100 yards on the season. How can the Iowa defense slow down Nebraska’s QBs on the ground?</strong></p>
<p id="D8eSI8">CN: No one’s going to completely shut it down, they are simply too quick and elusive. However, and I said this last week in the Penn St. Q&A, a defense will give itself a better chance of containing by breaking down on the rush, moving laterally and just trying to contain them and make them extend outside, or better yet for Iowa, throw the ball. Do that instead of bull-rushing, making a beeline deep into the backfield and going for the kill-shot. They’re both very quick as well as fast and make people look sill who just pin their ears back and try to run them over.</p>
<p id="ZVZFEr"><strong>BHGP: The Nebraska defense has certainly seen better days, giving up more than 34 points and nearly 450 yards per game. How have opponents found the most success attacking the Huskers and do you think Nebraska will be able to force Iowa to throw the ball with an inexperienced QB?</strong></p>
<p id="jv1kCG">CN: Well watching Illinois have their way with the Blackshirts had to have Iowa licking their chops, especially with two backs averaging over 5 YPC. I put Penn St. pushing the Husker D-line around on the offense’s inability to stay on the field for more that 50 seconds at a time the entire second half, but there was no such excuse in the Illinois game. Even if the defense who showed up in the first three games with a lot more hunger, I would think the Hawkeyes will be have an enjoyable day on the ground and not have to put it on Petras.</p>
<p id="ryMd7v">Our defensive backfield has been grabbing some TO’s though, so I strongly encourage Iowa to feel free to work on their passing game as often as they like.</p>
<p id="COR45y"><strong>BHGP: Alright, prediction time. This one opened with Iowa -12 and an over/under at 51.5. How do you see this one shaking out and can Iowa possibly cover that number in a series that has been decided by a field goal the last two meetings?</strong></p>
<p id="s07vYl">CN: I’m betting that line would have been very different two weeks ago but the Illini game just had everyone in Red country throwing up in their mouths. That score made it look a lot worse than it was. The air really went out of the balloon when the D finally got a 3-and-out to start the second half and that Illinois punter who moved like Forrest Gump in leg braces lurched, stumbled and power farted his way to a first down on the fake punt.</p>
<p id="0bHrDM">Jesus. A pro golfer in an Izod and a visor would have looked more comfortable busting downfield.</p>
<p id="MSTEUE">I reminded myself of that so as not to talk myself into a homer pick. Huskers offense moves better under Adrian and a better effort is there after hopefully having a VERY uncomfortable week of practice, but it’s not enough. </p>
<p id="dw3LTQ">Iowa 37 Nebraska 24.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="GqZdwE">
<p id="vPIMF1">So there you have it, the Hawkeyes are slated to win the Heroes Trophy yet again. Here’s hoping Andy knows exactly what he’s talking about and Iowa improves to 4-2 on the season.</p>
<p id="QblwWR">A huge thanks to Andy Ketterson of Corn Nation for taking the time to dive in on Nebraska football for us. Be sure to give him a follow <a href="http://Twitter.com/AndyKett20">@AndyKett20</a> on Twitter. You can also follow Corn Nation <a href="http://Twitter.com/CornNation">@CornNation</a> on the twitters for in game analysis and potential schadenfreude should things go as Andy described.</p>
<p id="7LbmHY">Go Hawks! </p>
https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/2020/11/26/21720446/iowa-hawkeye-football-five-questions-on-nebraska-cornhuskers-luke-mccaffrey-adrian-martinez-bhgpJPinIC