Kirk Ferentz reacts emotionally following Iowa's 13–10 victory over Nebraska.
Iowa defeated Nebraska 13–10 on Friday in Lincoln to reclaim the Heroes Trophy, albeit Kirk Ferentz had to work hard for it.
Iowa now has 10 wins on the year, marking the third time in the previous five years that the Hawkeyes have achieved double digits. Additionally, it ended the rival Cornhuskers' losing streak at seven games in a row. Ferentz was filled with emotion when the game went to overtime, considering everything the Hawkeyes had been through this season.
Ferentz stated, "Just really excited for our guys," pausing briefly to prevent himself from crying. They've shown incredible tenacity. To locate this victory... A defensive lineman receives a pick, (Ethan) Hurkett receives a pick, and then an unsung hero emerges to boot a field goal. It kind of serves as this team's representative.
With 5:07 remaining in the game, Nebraska made a 44-yard field goal. On the subsequent drive, Iowa picked up their first first down of the second half, but punted the ball back to the Huskers without taking any more action. With 55 seconds remaining, Nebraska returned possession of the ball to Iowa after a five-play, 24-yard drive.
With three plays remaining and 31 seconds remaining, Nebraska set up shop five yards short of midfield after Deacon Hill was picked off. On first down, NU quarterback Chuba Purdy ran for three points, but on the next play, defensive lineman Ethan Hurkett picked him off over the middle.
With fifteen seconds remaining, Iowa won. Hurkett's first interception of the season occurred.
Leshon Williams moved Iowa to the Nebraska 15 after gaining 22 yards on the drive's opening play. On the next play, Hill put the ball in the middle of the field, and Marshall Meeder made his first field goal as a Hawkeye.
He split the uprights from 38 yards out. "Winning is difficult," Ferentz remarked. It illustrates the type of children we have. These individuals are indeed They care about each other, they believe in themselves, and they are enjoyable to work with. Thus, it's quite unique.