Iowa needed a big win on Saturday, and that’s exactly what it got.

The Hawkeyes entered the day 0-2 after close losses to Purdue and Northwestern, but finally broke through against Michigan State in 49-7 victory.

“We needed success. I don’t mean in a success-or-else mode,” Ferentz told reporters after the game. “But we just needed to experience some success.”

It certainly felt like Iowa was taking its pent-up frustrations out on the Spartans.

Running back Tyler Goodson was the star, rushing the ball 14 times for 113 yards and two touchdowns. Quarterback Spencer Petras managed the game well and avoided throwing an interception after tossing three to Northwestern last week.

However, it was the defense that allowed Iowa to separate itself from the Spartans. The Hawkeye defense picked off Michigan State quarterback Rocky Lombardi three times, including a pick six. Iowa also returned a punt for a touchdown.

Iowa will try to get back to a .500 record next week at Minnesota.