"History doesn't repeat itself, but it often rhymes," as Mark Twain (allegedly) said. For Nebraska football, that rhyme is deafening. For the fourth time since 2018, the Cornhuskers fell to Iowa on a walk-off field goal—this time, courtesy of Drew Stevens. The 13-10 loss marked the second consecutive year Nebraska surrendered a late turnover that set up the Hawkeyes' game-winning kick.
Here’s a breakdown of yet another wild Iowa-Nebraska showdown in Four Downs:
1. Hawkeye Devil Magic Strikes Again
Iowa’s victory was a classic display of what fans call "Hawkeye Devil Magic": wins powered by defense, special teams, and a little black magic when the offense stalls. While offensive improvements under new coordinator Tim Lester have fueled most of Iowa's wins this season, Friday was different.
Nebraska dominated statistically, out-gaining Iowa 334-164, nearly doubling their time of possession (39:01 to 20:59), and converting 8 of 17 third downs. Iowa didn’t convert a single third down and managed only five first downs.
Despite leading the Big Ten in rushing, Iowa gained just 49 yards on 26 attempts. Star running back Kaleb Johnson, held to 45 yards on 17 carries, provided the game's offensive highlight: a 72-yard catch-and-run touchdown that was more about Johnson’s brilliance than the pass itself.
Even when the offense sputters, Iowa has a knack for winning ugly.
Since 2018: Record with Fewer than 200 Yards
- Iowa: 6-7 (.462)
- Rest of FBS: 18-403 (.043)
2. Defense Bent but Didn’t Break
Nebraska controlled the clock and moved the ball consistently, but Iowa’s defense held firm. The Cornhuskers scored only 10 points, with their lone touchdown coming just before halftime. Drives into Iowa territory resulted in a field goal, a missed field goal, and a late-game punt.
The defensive line delivered key plays, tallying four sacks and seven tackles for loss. Ethan Hurkett had two sacks, and Max Llewellyn’s strip-sack and recovery in the final minute sealed the game. Moments earlier, Sebastian Castro had nearly forced a turnover, but Nebraska retained possession.
Iowa’s defense came through when it mattered most, ensuring the offense didn’t need to perform heroics in overtime.
3. Jay Higgins’ Farewell Performance
Linebacker Jay Higgins, playing his final game at Kinnick Stadium, delivered a memorable performance. Despite nursing a recent hamstring injury, he racked up 12 tackles, one tackle for loss, and two quarterback hurries. Higgins has been the heart of Iowa’s defense for two seasons and showed why one last time.
4. Special Teams Make the Difference
As usual, special teams played a pivotal role. Drew Stevens’ game-winning field goal was the headline, but Iowa’s kicking game kept them in the contest, while Nebraska missed a crucial second-half attempt. These moments underscored the Hawkeyes’ ability to capitalize on opportunities and win close, low-scoring games.