Iowa quarterback Deacon Hill (10) passes the ball while under pressure from Nebraska's Luke Reimer (4) - AP Photo/Rebecca S. Gratz
The 2023 Iowa Hawkeyes have done it once again. They are ending their season with a 10-2 record. Of course, they still have the Big Ten Championship Game to play in, but it is still a big victory for the Hawkeyes. The two losses of the season come against Penn State and Minnesota. Here is a look at their final game, and what is next for the Hawkeyes.
Iowa Hawkeyes Defeat Nebraska Cornhuskers
Iowa’s final game comes with a final score of 13-10. It was a close one, but just as they have been doing, they push until the end. A close game to end the season is fitting. This damaged team continues to find ways to win.
In the game, quarterback Deacon Hill completed 11 passes out of 28 attempts for 94 yards, according to ESPN. He also threw one interception. Hill did not enter the season as the starter, and while he may not be the best quarterback in football, he has been holding his own. He also rushed the ball five times for ten yards but for one touchdown. This was the only touchdown of the game, which demonstrates how Hill gives it his all each game still.
They player who must be highlighted is running back, Leshon Williams. The run game for the Hawkeyes is a big reason the offense is able to put up points each week. This week, Williams rushed the ball 16 times for 111 yards. As a whole, the Iowa Hawkeyes rushed the ball for 163 total yards.
As known, the Iowa defense is a strong unit. The way that they are able to limit their opponents is what continues to keep them in games. Their worst game of the season was against the Penn State Nittany Lions. If it were not for the defense, it is unlikely that the Hawkeyes would have ten wins right now.
Against Nebraska, the defense had two sacks and six tackles for loss, according to ESPN. They also had two fumble recoveries and one interception. Defensive turnovers are a huge key to success, especially with a weak offense. The Hawkeyes kept Nebraska to just 75 rushing yards.
What’s Next for Iowa?
The regular season for the Hawkeyes may be over, but this team will be playing again. Next up is the Big Ten Championship Game held at Lucas Oil Stadium. The Hawkeyes will be playing the winner of the Ohio State vs. Michigan game. The Championship Game will be held on December 2nd. Iowa will not be the favorites in the game but expect them to put up a fight as long as they can.
