We've now entered the top 5 in our countdown of the greatest Iowa Hawkeye football players since 1990. Checking in at number 5 on our list is former Hawkeye running back, Nick Bell aka the 6'5", 250 pound monster from Las Vegas, Nevada.
While Bell arrvied on campus in the 80s, he made his biggest impact during the 1990 Rose Bowl season. Despite splitting time with Tony Stewart, Bell rushed for over 1000 yards, was named first team All-Big Ten, a Doak Walker finalist and Co-Big Ten Offensive player of the year. For good measure, Bell added over 300 yards receiving and 12 touchdowns.
In Iowa's biggest win of the season (at #4 Illinois, 54-28), Bell ran for 168 yards and two touchdowns. During the Rose Bowl loss against Washington Bell had over 130 yards of total offense including a 66 yard catch during a frantic comeback that saw the Hawks pull within a score of the Huskies.
Bell would go on to be a second round pick of the Oakland Raiders however injuries never allowed his pro career to get on track. Bell will forever be a Hawkeye fan favorite for his running style and contributions during the last Rose Bowl season for Iowa.
Why is Nick Bells picture black and white. It was 1985, not 1935.
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