Iowa clarifies QB outlook with pre-game availability report vs. Nebraska
Iowa has operated with a murky quarterback depth chart throughout the month of November. Heading into the season finale vs. Nebraska, the Hawkeyes have clarified some of the pecking order with the pre-game availability report.
As we get closer to kickoff on Black Friday, Iowa confirmed that Cade McNamara is officially out for the regular season finale vs. the Huskers. However, Brendan Sullivan, previously injured vs. UCLA, is not listed, signifying he should at least be available on Friday.
Jackson Stratton is still expected to start for a second straight week after taking over for Sullivan in the UCLA game, but it would be a boost if Sullivan can contribute at any point in the game.
Here are the full availability reports without any major surprises from Nebraska:
McNamara was originally injured vs. Northwestern with Sullivan taking over in that game at QB. Sullivan played well against the Wildcats and again in a start and blowout vs. Wisconsin but struggled before his injury against UCLA.
Stratton started in the Maryland game after replacing Sullivan vs. the Bruins and went 10-for-14 for just 76 yards against the Terrapins. However, Iowa’s ground game was dominant with 268 yards and 100+ rushing yards each from Kaleb Johnson and Kamari Moulton.
Against Nebraska, the Hawkeyes will likely need more from Stratton in order to keep the Huskers off-balance. Otherwise, it could be tough sledding for the ground game.