I don't know that there are really excuses as to why Iowa can't beat the Ohio States of the world, they have far better talent, and always will. Anyone expecting Iowa to compete for final4 appearances has their head in the clouds and not living in reality.
The harsh reality is that teams in the plains are not in a position to compete with the "Haves" in college football. I'll gladly take what Iowa has done the last 20 years, 5 top 10 finishes, many more top 25 finishes and only 2 seasons without a bowl game. The only other team in the Midwest to accomplish anything near that is Wisconsin.
Nebraska has proven that teams in this region are closer to Indiana, in terms of success, than Ohio State; it's a tough pill for most to swallow.
Iowa will likely win this Friday, not because we are so awesome, we aren't, but I won't be surprised if Nebraska is just ready to get this nightmare over with. Iowa will go put up a fight vs tOSU but fall short, likely keep it close for a half but wear out in the 2nd to make it look worse than it really is. The national media will kill us, but whatever, the cards are so stacked against pretty much every team in this conference that I'm not sure why anyone is surprised to get slaughtered by tOSU. I'm guessing they have WR'S not even in the rotation that would start at every team in the west. It is what it is...but id rather be in the game than sitting at home. A chip and a chair.
Hope Nebraska gets a coach that can turn it around. It's best for everyone to have good teams in the division.