That reached a breaking point in the first half. Cade McNamara started the game 7-of-13 for 73 yards and one interception, which was returned for a touchdown. After that, Iowa went with Brendan Sullivan at quarterback, which sparked the Hawkeyes’ offense.

When looking merely at the statistics, Sullivan’s influence appears meager at best. But no one can deny the impact he had on the game.

Iowa Hawkeyes football's decision to turn to Brendan Sullivan vs Northwestern was rewarded with the team's third 40-point game of the season.