Nebraska Cornhuskers destroy Northern Iowa Panthers

No emotional disappointment for the Nebraska football team.

After dominating Colorado last week, the Cornhuskers defeated the Northern Iowa Panthers on even terms. The 34-3 victory improves the Big Red to 3-0 and is perfect for non-conference play.

The Huskers opened the game with an eight-play drive that was capped by a touchdown catch by Carter Nelson, Ainsworth’s first score as a true freshman for the Huskers.

UNI responded with a 16-play, 10:04 drive that ended in a field goal, after which the Panthers continued to be good at running down the clock, but not as good at scoring points.

Nebraska scored two more touchdowns before halftime – through the air to Isaiah Neyor and on the ground by Jacory Barney Jr. – and a field goal by Tristan Alvano. After the break

The Huskers totaled 423 yards, while the Panthers totaled 301 yards.

Dylan Raiola played just over three quarters at quarterback. He finished the game completing 17 of 23 passes for 247 yards, two touchdowns and an interception. The turnover is the first of his career at NU and came on his 80th career pass.

Defensively, the Blackshirts forced only one three-and-out, but forced the Panthers to punt four times and made 0 of 2 fourth down attempts. Malcolm Hartzog intercepted a ball in the third quarter.

Nebraska stays at home next week to host Illinois. Friday’s game starts at 7 p.m. CDT and will be broadcast on FOX. This will be the 400th consecutive Memorial Stadium sellout.

MORE: Nebraska football leads 21-3 at halftime against Northern Iowa