Badger of Honor
Fansided

Wisconsin Football drops in latest Big Ten power rankings

By Tanner Nestle

MADISON, WI - SEPTEMBER 15: Squally Canada #22 of the BYU Cougars dives into the end zone for a two-yard touchdown in the third quarter of the game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium on September 15, 2018 in Madison, Wisconsin. BYU won 24-21. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
MADISON, WI - SEPTEMBER 15: Squally Canada #22 of the BYU Cougars dives into the end zone for a two-yard touchdown in the third quarter of the game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium on September 15, 2018 in Madison, Wisconsin. BYU won 24-21. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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IOWA CITY, IOWA- SEPTEMBER 15: Wide receiver Brandon Smith #12 of the Iowa Hawkeyes runs up the field during the first half against defensive back Isaiah Nimmers #26 of the Northern Iowa Panthers on September 15, 2018 at Kinnick Stadium, in Iowa City, Iowa. (Photo by Matthew Holst/Getty Images) /

Iowa took care of business against FCS opponent Northern Iowa. The Hawkeyes took a 38-0 lead into the fourth quarter before surrendering two late touchdowns. The game was never in doubt and it’s exactly what Iowa was looking for heading into its matchup against Big Ten West rival Wisconsin.

Iowa hadn’t put together a complete performance like this until now. It’s 3-0 but hasn’t shown any offensive firepower. Nate Stanley played his best game of the year and might finally have the confidence he needs to put together the season he was expected to have heading into the year. Stanley completed 23 of 28 passes for 309 yards, two touchdowns, and an interception.

light. Must Read. Three key matchups for Wisconsin vs. Iowa

One of Stanley’s favorite targets is without a doubt Noah Fant, who is widely regarded as one of the best tight ends in the country. Fant caught five passes for 99 yards and a score against Northern Iowa.

The rest of the conference has a ways to go before it can earn a spot in this ranking so Iowa may still be safe in this spot even with a loss this weekend. A win would obviously help the Hawkeyes out a ton both in the polls and in these rankings.

It’s unfortunate for them that BYU stole some of that thunder last weekend. Beating Wisconsin would still be impressive, but now it’s just slightly less so in the eyes of voters, fans, and the public in general if Iowa pulls the upset.