The Scorecard #2

College: All good things must come to an end and so it was that Iowa lost to Penn State 13-3 yesterday at Happy Valley. At a certain point, it was probably inevitable, though it's been surprising that it hasn't happened a lot sooner than it did- but despite an anemic, confused offense, Penn State's defense was as good as advertised and kept Vandenburg, Coker and the rest of Iowa's offense from getting into anything resembling a rhythm.

But here's the kicker: Iowa's defense, despite giving up 400 yards in offense to Penn State, actually looked good for the first time this season. We held Penn State to 2 field goals and a touchdown and given the fact that the offense couldn't move the ball at all, our defense was on the field a lot. I'd cautiously consider this a good step forward for our defense. Offensively, however, we ran into problems. They started with no-huddle, dropped out of no-huddle- brought it back sporadically here and there throughout the game and go nothing to show for it. The lack of success running the ball was also notable.

So deep breath everybody, all is not lost. Offensively, we've still got work to do. We can rock no-huddle if Vandenburg gets into a good groove, but I'm starting to think we need to throw different run plays at people to see if we can loosen up the run game a little more as well. Defensively, although we lost, we kept Penn State out of the end zone twice and held them to the fewest points this season. I'd consider that a big step forward. We got pressure on their QBs better, kept them contained better and tackled better. Plus traditionally, Iowa always struggles coming off a bye week.

Bonus College: Iowa State has turned into a pumpkin, losing to Texas and now to Baylor. Brutal games remain ahead for the Cyclones.

Nebraska looked like it was headed for a shocking 0-2 start against a lackluster Ohio State, but came alive and beat the Buckeyes at home for their first Big Ten win. Well done, Huskers.

Florida State lost to Wake Forest, which seems slightly ridiculous to me. Houston remains undefeated as does Boise State and I'm becoming increasingly excited about the season ending Bedlam between Oklahoma and Oklahoma State. The Sooners put up 55 against Texas yesterday but the Cowboys? They put up 70. Granted they were playing Kansas, but still- that is shaping up to an awesome game.

Bonus Rugby: I've kept half an eye on the ongoing Rugby World Cup and now we're down to the final four. Wales is taking on France in one semi final and it's the clash of the titans as the All Black of New Zealand take on the Wallabies of Australia in the other semi. I haven't seen the Welsh or France in action yet, but New Zealand looks like the team to beat to me and my limited rugby knowledge.

Pro: The Vikings managed to win today! 'Nuff said.