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Iowa Football: 3 Takeaways from Hawkeyes’ win over Boston College

By Quinn Douglas

NEW YORK, NY - DECEMBER 27: Head coach Kirk Ferentz of the Iowa Hawkeyes holds up the George M. Steinbrenner III Trophy after defeating the Boston College Eagles in the New Era Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium on December 27, 2017 in the Bronx borough of New York City. The Iowa Hawkeyes won 27-20. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - DECEMBER 27: Head coach Kirk Ferentz of the Iowa Hawkeyes holds up the George M. Steinbrenner III Trophy after defeating the Boston College Eagles in the New Era Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium on December 27, 2017 in the Bronx borough of New York City. The Iowa Hawkeyes won 27-20. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images)
(Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images) /

2. Akrum Wadley was sensational

In his final game as a Hawkeye, Akrum Wadley did not disappoint. Following an all-around slow first half, Wadley and the running game really got going in the second half. It appeared the Hawks began running more gap-oriented running plays to counter the aggressiveness of Boston College’s front seven.

Wadley finished with 88 yards on 22 carries and a touchdown, which moved him into sole possession of second place in the Hawkeyes all-time touchdown list with 35. He ends his career one shy of the legendary Tavian Banks. Wadley also contributed in the passing game as he made two catches for 24 yards.

One place the Wadley contributed where others thought he wouldn’t was the kick return game. He hadn’t fielded kick returns for Iowa since late September but was thrust back into that role due to an injury holding out Ihmir Smith-Marsette. Wadley showcased his explosiveness, returning five kicks for 171 yards, including a 72 yard return following Boston College’s first touchdown.

It was an easy choice when it came to the game’s MVP, as it did indeed go to Wadley. It was definitely a special moment. He won the award in front of many friends and family as he grew up in nearby New Jersey. It was a fitting end to a very exciting career.

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