The Great First Down Famine of 2023: How Iowa Tried (and Failed) to Move the Chains Against Michigan
Ah, the 2023 Big Ten Championship game. A frosty night in Indianapolis, two Big Ten powerhouses ready to throw down. Michigan, Wolverines champing at the bit, looking for that elusive National Championship berth. Iowa, the Hawkeyes, with their steely defense ready to put a stop to the maize and blue juggernaut.
But then... something unexpected happened. Michigan's defense, usually a sieve like a grandma's favorite colander, turned into a brick wall. Iowa's offense, well, let's just say they were about as productive as a one-legged man in a kicking competition.
Enter the First Down Famine of 2023.
Iowa's offense became a sad trombone emoji come to life. They moved the ball about as well as a broken shopping cart in molasses. Every drive sputtered out faster than a birthday candle in a hurricane.
Note: Skipping ahead? Don’t miss the middle sections.
The Numbers Don't Lie (and They're Brutal)
Here's the stat that will make Iowa fans shed a single tear (or maybe a whole lot, depending on how much holiday punch they had): Iowa only managed a measly 12 first downs.
TWELVE.
QuickTip: Let each idea sink in before moving on.
That's less than most toddlers can count on their fingers and toes. That's fewer first downs than the average person takes on a walk from their couch to the fridge for a post-game snack.
Michigan's Defense Deserves a Raise (and Maybe a Trophy)
Meanwhile, Michigan's defense was out there playing patty-cake with air while Iowa's offense, well, just stood there awkwardly. It was a masterclass in defensive dominance. You have to give it to them, they earned their shutout.
QuickTip: Read actively, not passively.
 |
But Wait, There's More!
This lack of first downs wasn't just bad, it was historically bad! Iowa became only the second team in Big Ten Championship history to be shut out completely. Ouch.
So, the moral of the story? Respect the defense, folks. They can turn even the mightiest offense into a whimpering kitten.
QuickTip: Read a little, pause, then continue.
 |
| How Many First Downs Did Iowa Have Against Michigan |
FAQ: How to Not Have a First Down Famine Like Iowa (Because Seriously, Who Wants That?)
1. How to Avoid a First Down Famine: Practice, Practice, Practice! An offense that clicks isn't built overnight. Get out there, run some drills, and build that chemistry.
2. How to Avoid a First Down Famine: Run the Ball (Sometimes) Passing is fun, but a balanced attack is key. Keep the defense honest and don't be afraid to mix things up.
3. How to Avoid a First Down Famine: Protect Your Quarterback A sacked quarterback is a turnover waiting to happen. Invest in your offensive line and keep your QB upright.
4. How to Avoid a First Down Famine: Don't Get Cute Fourth-and-long trick plays might look cool on YouTube, but they rarely work. Stick to the basics and move the chains one step at a time.
5. How to Avoid a First Down Famine: Don't Play Against Michigan's 2023 Defense Seriously, those guys were scary good. Maybe pick a different team next time.
 |
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
