The key:

The ground game.

Each team is trying to take control through its rushing attack. Iowa has had much more success so far, consistently opening up running lanes on offense. The Northwestern defense tightened slightly in the second quarter, but the unit is the epitome of bend-but-don’t-break.

The Wildcats’ offense was handed over to senior quarterback Kain Colter, who returned after missing last week’s game against Minnesota due to an ankle injury. Colter began to heat up in the second quarter, but penalties and so-so pass protection sunk his efforts.

On NU’s best drive, senior running back Mike Trumpy fumbled.

What Northwestern needs to win:

A shot in the arm.

This team looks lifeless, a recurring theme for the third straight game. The Cats look unmotivated, and a 10-point deficit on the road in Iowa is no joke.

Fortunately, they have the antidote. More doses of Colter in the second half could be what this team needs. Junior quarterback Trevor Siemian has been kept on ice so far this game, but if he can spell Colter for a drive or two, it could recreate the two-quarterback system that was so successful last season.

But right now? A fourth loss looks imminent.

— Rohan Nadkarni