IOWA CITY, Iowa — In a commanding performance on Saturday, Kaleb Johnson rushed for 109 yards and scored three touchdowns, while backup quarterback Brendan Sullivan contributed with a rushing touchdown, leading Iowa to a 40-14 victory over Northwestern.

The victory improved the Hawkeyes’ record to 5-3 overall and 3-2 in the Big Ten, as they dominated the third quarter with a burst of 28 points, thanks to the efforts of Johnson and Sullivan.

Johnston, who currently ranks second in the nation for rushing yards and rushing yards per game, showcased his skills with a notable 26-yard touchdown run late in the first half, allowing Iowa to take a 12-7 lead at halftime. He later added a 41-yard touchdown run in the third quarter, followed by a 25-yard touchdown run, extending Iowa’s lead to 33-7.

The game marked Johnson’s sixth rushing game of over 100 yards this season, bringing his total to 16 rushing touchdowns for the year.

Sullivan made his entrance into the game with 9:25 left in the second quarter, taking over for starter Cade McNamara. He completed 79 passing yards and rushed for 41 yards, including a 6-yard touchdown run that initiated a scoring spree for Iowa in the third quarter.

In addition, Kaden Wetjen electrified the crowd with an 85-yard punt return touchdown during the third quarter, contributing to Iowa’s overwhelming offensive display.

Northwestern struggled throughout the game, managing only 163 yards of offense. They came into the contest ranked 129th in total offense and 119th in scoring offense nationally. The Wildcats experienced a tough day, starting their drives at an average position on their own 21-yard line and failing to cross midfield until late in the fourth quarter.

Despite their inefficiencies, Northwestern did score a few points, including an 85-yard interception return touchdown by Theran Johnson in the second quarter and a 72-yard punt return for a touchdown by Drew Wagner in the fourth quarter.

From a broader perspective, Sullivan’s entry into the game reignited the Hawkeyes’ offense, which had struggled in the previous week’s loss to Michigan State. His dynamic running was complemented by a 40-yard pass to tight end Johnny Pascuzzi, during which Sullivan demonstrated hustle by providing a crucial block downfield. The Iowa defense also exhibited a significant turnaround, delivering one of their best performances of the season.

Looking ahead, Northwestern will travel to Purdue for their next matchup, while Iowa will prepare to host Wisconsin next Saturday.