Huskers’ early onslaught crushes ‘Clones
A week after needing overtime to pull out a win, Nebraska needed less than a quarter to put its game with Iowa State out of reach. The Huskers exploded for 35 first-quarter points, including 21 in the first five minutes, to set the tone for a 77-14 rout.
After forcing the Cyclones to punt on its first series, Nebraska needed just four plays to score. Ahman Green capped the drive with an 18-yard touchdown run. The Husker fireworks continued after ISU’s next drive as freshman Bobby Newcombe returned a punt 53 yards for a touchdown to put NU ahead 14-0.
Green added two more first-quarter touchdowns on runs of 49 and 4 yards to push the NU lead to 28-0 before Iowa State got on the board. Newcombe closed the first period scoring with a 16-yard touchdown on a wingback option play.
The 35 points tied a school record for scoring in the opening quarter. NU added 28 second-quarter points to push the halftime margin to 63-7, tying a school record for most points in a first half.
Green rushed for 209 yards on 15 carries to push his season total to 1,496 yards. His 599 yards in three games against the Cyclones set a school record for most yards against a single opponent.
The win secured the Huskers’ place in the Big 12 Championship Game.
Colonel Mustard