They would later be referred to as the "Tree Planters", "Nebraskans", "The Rattlesnake Boys", "Red Stockings", and "Antelopes", but "Bugeaters" became the university's official nickname in 1892.

[4][5] Although Nebraska was supported by temporary head coach Theron Lyman, the Old Gold Knights' lack of experience and substandard equipment made NU heavy underdogs against the Hawkeyes.

Despite losing a physical game to Iowa just one week prior, visiting Nebraska opened the first half with 22 unanswered points.

NU halfbacks George Flippin, the first African American to play football for Nebraska, and James Johnston each scored three touchdowns.

NU added ten points in the second half en route to a 32–0 victory and the unofficial Nebraska state championship for the second consecutive year.