The Iowa football team didn’t prepare enough for Christian McCaffrey, apparently.

By Danny Payne
[email protected]

PASADENA, Calif. — Whatever the hell Iowa did to prepare for Christian McCaffrey didn’t work.

The Heisman Trophy runner-up from Stanford has absolutely gashed the fifth-ranked Hawkeyes, totaling 248 all-purpose yards. The No. 6 Cardinal has set the Rose Bowl record for most first-half points, and Iowa has had no answer for the Stanford offense. I could keep it there, and it would sum up the game, but there’s more to it. Read on.

• This game is over, and if Iowa were to come back to win, it will be the biggest night-and-day story in the history of sports. Seriously.
• Give Stanford’s defense lots of credit, too. The Cardinal have dialed up the pressure since the get-go, and Iowa’s offensive line is sideways. Outside of a few decent-ish runs, the Hawkeye offense hasn’t been able to do anything all afternoon.
• Stanford’s blocking has been A-plus. Some have called Stanford the best offensive line in the nation. It’s certainly the best offensive line the Hawkeyes have played, and although I haven’t seen every team in the country, I can’t disagree with that notion. Holes on holes on holes.
• That trick play the Cardinal ran to score their fifth touchdown was beautiful; I’ve never seen a fake fumble go for a touchdown before this, but it happened, and it was really cool.
• Tom Arnold was on the video board trying to pump up the Hawkeye faithful with the Hawks down 35-0, so that’s something.
• Stanford’s front seven, on both sides of the ball, is a steamroller.
• If you’re wondering why C.J. Beathard isn’t throwing the ball downfield, it’s because he’s not getting any time, and Iowa’s pass-catchers haven’t had much separation.
• Iowa has six penalties for 45 yards, Stanford has four for 25.
• Stats: