A Hero’s Welcome: Iowa and Nebraska to Square Off In Annual Hero’s Game
When Nebraska announced its move to the Big Ten Conference they drastically changed the landscape and dynamics of the conference. One of the biggest changes it brought was a renewed rivalry against Iowa. Now every year Nebraska will be pitted against Iowa in what has been coined the “Hero’s Game.” Both schools seem to be embracing the soon to be tradition. This rivalry just seems natural, Iowa and Nebraska border each other, they have similar style programs (although Nebraska’s tradition is rooted much deeper into college football than Iowa’s), similar core valves, as each state is known for their blue collar work ethic. They currently have about the same talent level and, above all else, both states are flat and have corn for acres upon acres.
Before I dive into how much the rivalry will mean to Iowa and their chances of success, I think it is important to note that both schools want this to be more than just a game. There will be a trophy given to the winner, much like the Paul Bunyan axe in the Wisconsin versus Minnesota battle, or the Golden Boot, which is rewarded to the winner of the Arkansas and LSU game, that will be unveiled for the first time at the completion of the first annual Hero’s Game. Additionally, before the opening kickoff, one citizen from Iowa and one from Nebraska will be selected to represent your every day hero. It will recognize them for their courageous acts and noble qualities. Each recipient will also have their name etched into the trophy each year. Maybe it will evolve into the recipients being the honorary captains for the coin toss, or leading their respected teams onto the field, but we will see with time. That tradition, along with the trophy, will help this tradition stand the test of time and possibly even rise to greatness in the collegiate ranks.
The game should spark interest outside of just Iowa and Nebraska fans. Big Ten fans will certainly tune in as the game will pit two of the conference’s finest. College football fanatics will take a keen interest in the game as well, as it will likely be a battle for Big Ten standings and national rankings. The game will certainly air on a major network and in primetime, which is always great for the schools involved. All fans should expect a tightly contested, well-played and entertaining game.
The first few matchups of this rivalry should be very intense and close. Both Iowa and Nebraska are similar in style as well as talent. Both teams are well coached too. This should help peak the interest of fans, giving the game added meaning and exposure. That in turn should help fire up the intensity of the game, making it even more fun for all. Iowa will be traveling to a packed Lincoln, Nebraska to take on the Cornhuskers on Friday November 25th in the Big Ten regular season finale. The Hawkeyes are hoping to start the rivalry on the right foot and come home to a hero’s welcome from their passionate and dedicated fan base.
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