LINCOLN, Nebraska – In a snowstorm, the No. 3 Iowa wrestling team braved the journey to Lincoln, Nebraska for a road dual against the No. 6 Nebraska team. The Hawkeyes came out victorious with a dominating 22-10 win, winning seven out of the ten matches, six of which were against ranked opponents.
Drake Ayala and Zach Glazier were standout performers for the Hawkeyes. Ayala, in a weight class without a clear favorite, solidified his position as a top contender with a decisive 7-3 victory over No. 7 Caleb Smith. Ayala displayed his aggressive side, taking multiple shots on his way to a commanding win.
Glazier secured the dual win for the Hawkeyes with another impressive performance, remaining unbeaten in the season. He defeated reigning Big Ten champion Silas Allred, controlling the match from start to finish with nearly two minutes of riding time.
Under the leadership of coach Tom Brands, Iowa has never lost to the Cornhuskers in his tenure, maintaining a perfect 15-0 record against their long-time rivals. Other wrestlers like Real Woods and Jared Franek also played crucial roles in Iowa’s victory.
The match results are as follows:
– 125 pounds: Drake Ayala (Iowa) defeated Caleb Smith (Nebraska) with a score of 7-3.
– 133 pounds: Brody Teske (Iowa) defeated Jacob Van Dee (Nebraska) with a score of 10-4.
– 141 pounds: Real Woods (Iowa) defeated Brock Hardy (Nebraska) with a score of 7-2.
– 149 pounds: Caleb Rathjen (Iowa) lost to Ridge Lovett (Nebraska) with a score of 0-6.
– 157 pounds: Jared Franek (Iowa) defeated Peyton Robb (Nebraska) with a score of 5-4.
– 165 pounds: Michael Caliendo (Iowa) defeated Antrell Taylor (Nebraska) with a score of 8-3.
– 174 pounds: Patrick Kennedy (Iowa) defeated Bubba Willson (Nebraska) with a score of 8-4.
– 184 pounds: Aiden Riggins (Iowa) lost to Lenny Pinto (Nebraska) with a major decision score of 10-4.
– 197 pounds: Zach Glazier (Iowa) defeated Silas Allred (Nebraska) with a major decision score of 12-4.
– 285 pounds: Bradley Hill (Iowa) defeated Nash Hutmacher (Nebraska) with a score of 3-1.
With this win, Iowa continues to assert its dominance as the top wrestling program in corn-growing states. The Hawkeyes showcased their strength and skill against their rivals, solidifying their position as a formidable force in the wrestling world.