Was this possibly the worst way for Northwestern and
quarterback Dan Persa to start a game? Maybe.
With
Northwestern driving at the Iowa eight-yard line in the first quarter, Persa
dropped back to pass and was looking for a receiver in the end zone. He alluded
a tackle, but couldn’t wiggle free from a second one and ended up throwing an
interception to Hawkeye free safety Tanner Miller — who promptly ran it down
the home sideline for a 98-yard touchdown. Miller’s touchdown ties the longest
interception return in Iowa history.
So
not only did the Hawkeyes go up 10-0 with 4:08 to play in the first quarter,
but Persa limped off the field. He did return on the Wildcats’ next series, but
continued to platoon with backup Kain Colter.
Colter
has been on the field constantly during the Wildcats’ offensive series, where
he has split time between receiver and quarterback.
