3 keys, prediction for Iowa football against Nebraska

Iowa has faced teams with a mix of offensive styles in the Big Ten. Nebraska's formula for success is not quite as clear. The Huskers relied on running back Anthony Grant in their 38-17 win against North Dakota, but in Nebraska’s 14-13 win over Rutgers, Grant averaged only 2.5 yards per carry and quarterback Casey Thompson was doing more of the heavy lifting.

Nebraska has scored 17 points in its last two games. The Huskers did not have any passing plays of 20-plus yards or 15- plus rushing plays in their 15/14 loss to Wisconsin. They had one such play in the 34-3 loss against Michigan. Limiting big plays has been a trademark of Phil Parker's defenses. forcing turnovers is also important. Iowa is 6-1 when winning the turnover margin and 1- 3 when tying or losing the margin.

Iowa's offensive line has experienced some ups and downs this season. Nebraska's edge rushers have the potential to cause issues for the Hawkeyes' young offensive lines. Caleb Tannor will be playing in his 56th game as a Husker, which will tie the program record. Ochaun Mathis has only made one start at Nebraska, but he was a second-team all-Big 12 honoree in the last two seasons.

Iowa ranks 126th out of 131 FBS teams and 65th of 65 Power Five teams in third down offense. Iowa has outscored opponents 57-16 when it needs to go 7.0 yards or farther on third downs.

The stakes are high for the Hawkeyes in Friday's Heroes Trophy game. A win would give Iowa its second consecutive Big Ten West title and a trip to the conference championship game, while a loss would push Iowa to 7-5.

Iowa has the talent for a double-digit win, but Nebraska has played these games closer than expected in recent history.