It’s do-or-die for the Huskers as Iowa comes to town for a Black Friday showdown. The Hawkeyes arrive fresh off winning the division, while the Huskers endured another agonizing one-score loss against Wisconsin. The over-under started at another historic low, consistent with Iowa’s trend this year. Despite a three-game losing streak, there’s reason for optimism among Nebraska fans. Chubba Purdy’s recent emergence presents a potential quarterback option for the 2024 season. While extra practice in December would benefit Purdy, the Huskers must first navigate past Iowa.
In his inaugural start, Chubba Purdy delivered the best performance by a Husker quarterback this season. It marked the most accurate passing display and the second-highest combined passing and rushing yards of any quarterback this season. Purdy showcased good zip in his passes and displayed promising chemistry with the young receiving corps. I propose Nebraska moves away from the quick screen to Billy Kemp IV, which has yielded a mere 2 yards across three completions. While the quick passing game aids the offensive line, implementing quick slants to reliable targets like Kemp or the speedy Jaylen Lloyd could be more effective.
Iowa’s passing situation doesn’t outshine Nebraska’s. Deacon Hill, taking over for an injured Cade McNamara, initially struggled and sits at the third-worst completion percentage in the Big Ten at 49.7%. However, he has improved recently, reaching the 60% range in the last three games. Not a threat on the ground with -100 yards rushing on the year, Hill is a similar passer to the Husker QBs.
Despite a change at quarterback, the Huskers maintain one of the nation’s most QB-run-dependent offenses. Nebraska quarterbacks have amassed 804 rushing yards, ranking 8th in the country. Emmett Johnson and Anthony Grant share time, providing explosive potential, albeit not as prominently displayed as anticipated. Overall, the Huskers lead the Big Ten in rushing (186.1 YPG).
Iowa relies on a traditional offense, with its running backs serving as top rushers. Leading rusher Leshon Williams ranks 9th in attempts and tied for 8th in yards in the conference. While Iowa’s top three rushers avoid negative plays, they struggle to break off significant runs.
This Iowa game holds immense stakes, arguably unmatched since Bo Pelini’s final game. The potential for extra practice through a bowl game becomes critical, especially if Purdy takes on the QB1 role next season. For better or worse, Nebraska has assumed a similar identity to Iowa this season. Since 2011, teams vying for bowl eligibility in the final week hold an 84-70 record, but only a 3-20 record against opponents with at least 9 wins. Can the Huskers find a way to pull off the upset against a team with an impressive record?