WildcatReport - Takeaways: Iowa 33, Northwestern 13
Here are our takeaways from a tough day in Iowa City.
northwestern.rivals.com
Iowa entered this game with a much-maligned offensive line, a major departure from what is usually the the foundation of their methodical offense, and left with a confidence boost. The Northwestern defense was crushed at the point of attack, allowing 173 rushing yards, 393 total yards and 33 points to one of the worst offenses in the NCAA.
Quarterback Spencer Petras went almost completely untouched. The Wildcats recorded just one sack and failed to force a turnover. One of the worst starting quarterbacks in college football was 21-for-30 passing for 220 yards and a touchdown, his best performance of the season, by far. For context, he now has three touchdowns and five interceptions on the season.
Northwestern's offensive line, the pride of this team early in the season, was dominated by Iowa's defensive front. Iowa's defense sacked Sullivan seven times, one short of matching the total that the Wildcats had allowed all season before this matchup.
The running game was completely stifled. Evan Hull had 11 carries for 32 yards, and it seemed like the Hawkeyes started with a player in the backfield on every snap.
No respite ahead in the 2022 schedule
Iowa was on a three-game losing streak and was supposed to be shelter from the storm, but after this loss nothing stands between Northwestern and next week's home game against No. 2 Ohio State. - Northwestern Rivals site
Northwestern hosts Ohio State next back in Evanston.
