Petras, a third-year starter, had struggled mightily in the first half, completing just 2 of 11 passes for 16 yards with an interception. He was sacked three times and was unable to generate any consistent offense.
Padilla, a redshirt sophomore, entered the game with the Hawkeyes trailing 7-0. He immediately provided a spark, completing his first four passes and leading Iowa on a 7-play, 75-yard touchdown drive to tie the game. Padilla finished the game 18 of 25 for 202 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions.
The Hawkeyes' defense also played a key role in the victory, holding Nevada to just 152 total yards and forcing four turnovers, including two interceptions by Riley Moss. The Wolf Pack were unable to sustain drives and could not put any points on the board after Padilla took over.
Ferentz said after the game that the decision to bench Petras was made because he felt the team needed a spark. "We just weren't moving the ball," Ferentz said. "I thought Alex gave us a chance to do that."
The victory was Iowa's first of the season and provides a much-needed confidence boost after a disappointing 2021 campaign. With Padilla at quarterback, the Hawkeyes have shown signs of improvement and will be looking to continue their winning ways in their upcoming game against Iowa State on September 10th.