The Iowa Hawkeyes have been the shock to the NCAA season. After getting blown out by the Tennessee Volunteers in last year's bowl, the team was not predicted to do much this season. However, here they are in the final game of the regulard season sitting at No.3 in the College Football Playoff rankings with an 11-0 record. However, one loss and they will drop out of contention as the Nebraska Cornhuskers aim to be the team that does it.
Since joining the Big Ten, Nebraska has been Iowa's biggest rival. They hope to make that true with a win in Lincoln in what would help end the season on a high note. Iowa will ride the success of their offense which has not been overly flashy, but has been effective week in and week out. The rushing trio of Jordan Canzeri, LeShun Daniels and Akrum Wadley are the best rushing attack in the nation averaging 208 yards per game. However, they will be facing a defense that ranks No.10 in the nation against the run. Nebraska has only been giving up 110 yards per game.
Nebraska wants to make the Iowa offense one-dimenstional put pressure on quarterback CJ Beathard. He has helped lead Iowa in some fast starts as the team has scored on their opening possession in three straight games. The big matchup to watch is how the qaurterback plays against defense ends Jack Gangwish and Greg McMullen who have been mightmares against opposing quarterbacks. They must play their best game in this week as Beathard has the ability to keep extending plays and points on the board.For Nebraska, a win would get them into a bowl game.
After upsets to Michigan State and Rutgers, the Cornhuskers are aiming to add one more upset win to their books this season. They would be the major spoilers to the College Football Playoffs and ruin the Cinderella story that Iowa has been this season. It is going to be a difficult task for Nebraska who has not looked good at times this season. A win takes the pressure of head coach Mike Riley and helps save Nebraska's season.Quarterback Tommy Armstrong understands that the team cannot afford a mistake. Running back Imani Cross will be a big x-factor for the NEbraska offense, He put up career games against both Michigan State and Rutgers and will need to have another against Iowa. Wide receiver Jordan Westerkamp is also looking to make a big difference for the team after recording just two catches for 13 against Iowa last year.
The Hawkeyes understand one loss and they are out completely. Michigan State, Notre Dame or Oklahoma State could all replace them in the final rankings. A one-loss Iowa team does not get into the playoffs so the team cannot afford to let up as they face a Nebraska team capable of getting the upset.