Quarterback efficiency ratings are based on the belief that 100 is average.

Seneca Wallace’s third and fourth-down pass rating is 210.66, and he’s oblivious to the reason why he’s so productive in that situation.

“I don’t know,” Wallace said.

“It’s something that we need and it’s real crucial. Especially in the Iowa game, it was real important.”

Holding on to a slim lead in the fourth quarter, the Cyclones faced third down and 11 deep in their own end.

Wallace rolled to his left and into the end zone, squared his shoulders and fired across his body as he was pressured by a Hawkeye defender.

The 29-yard pass was right on the money to receiver Jack Whitver.

First down.

Whitver had cut off his route after his defender stayed back to prevent the long ball.

“It’s almost like he knew I was going to do it, because as soon as I did it, it seemed like the ball was there,” Whitver said.

“I didn’t realize how good a pass it was until I watched it on tape, but that was one of the most unbelievable throws I’ve seen.”

Three plays later, Wallace found Whitver again to convert on another third-and-long situation.

This season Wallace has thrown 34 passes on third and fourth down and 21 of those have turned into first downs, many leading to touchdowns later in the game.

Whitver has proven to be Wallace’s favorite third-down target.

Wallace has gone to the junior seven times this season and has gotten a first down each time.

Lane Danielsen and Jamaul Montgomery have also turned in five catches apiece in third- and fourth-down situations – and all were converted.

ISU head coach Dan McCarney knows he’s got a gem as his signal-caller.

“There’s great God-given ability, I think we know that,” McCarney said.

“He’s a special guy, and I hope I can find more guys like that in my years of coaching, but it’s going to be hard.”