Iowa makes quarterback change in hope of spark in Big Ten Championship

Trailing 21-3 midway through the third quarter of the Big Ten Championship, Iowa made a quarterback change. Alex Padilla has entered the game in place of starter Spencer Petras.

Padilla previously started three games this year for the Hawkeyes, but was benched against Nebraska this past week. He is 45-of-97 for 498 yards, two touchdowns and an interception on the season.

Petras began the year as the starting quarterback. At the time he exited the game, he was a mere 9-of-22 passing for 137 yards.

Ultimately, the quarterback change did not help Iowa, as they still failed to score a touchdown following the switch. Padilla fared no better than Petras, finishing the game 10-of-15 passing for 38 yards and an interception in a 42-3 loss.

Michigan scored both of its first half touchdowns in the first quarter, and both came on massive plays. First, running back Blake Corum broke free for a 67-yard scamper into the end zone. Not even a minute later, the Wolverines ran a little trickery that led to running back Donovan Edwards throwing a 75-yard touchdown to Roman Wilson.

With the victory Michigan claimed its first Big Ten championship since the 2004 season and the 43rd in program history. It also clinched its spot in the College Football Playoff, where it will have a chance to compete for its 12th national title in program history.

The final version of the College Football Playoff rankings is set to be revealed at noon ET on Sunday and can be viewed on ESPN. The Wolverines are set to make their first appearance in the Playoff since its inception in 2014.

For Jim Harbaugh, this year has been his most impressive since taking over his alma mater in 2015. Despite entering the year on the hot seat, he reached several milestones and has a chance to keep the good times going later this month.