No. 2 – Jordan Canzeri vs. Nebraska
I picked Jo at number two here for a couple of reasons. The biggest reason was because of how big the game was for the 2015 Iowa Hawkeyes. Traveling to your hated rival, Nebraska, with a perfect regular season on the line, knowing you’re going to be getting their best shot. Second reason; he had two gigantic runs that gave Iowa some big time momentum during the game. Last reason; his numbers. He carried the ball 17 times for 140 yards and two touchdowns.
The Hawkeyes took a 14-10 lead into the locker room and needed to stay on top to stay in the hunt for the college football playoff. The Cornhuskers came out and punted right away. A good return from Desmond King and a penalty gave Iowa the ball at the Nebraska 33 yard line.
The Hawkeyes ran two plays, both Canzeri runs, and Jordan took it in from 29 yards out to give Iowa a 21-10 lead and the momentum. Nebraska immediately answered with an 11 play, 70+ yard drive of their own that was capped by an Imani Cross touchdown run. Momentum back to the Huskers.
Well, after the kick-off, Iowa ran one play, which was the same exact play they had ran to cap their previous touchdown drive, stretch left to Canzeri. Wouldn’t you know, it worked again. Canzeri took it 68 yards to the house to give Iowa a 28-17 lead. After that, the defense held strong and Iowa would go on to win 28-20.
Canzeri had a few injuries during his senior season, but was able to muster 183 rushing attempts, 984 yards, and 12 touchdowns. He also caught 20 passes for 208 yards and a score. Iowa fans will always remember this Jordan Canzeri run as it capped off Iowa’s undefeated regular season.
Next: Number One