LINCOLN, Neb. – While Nebraska, the No. 1 ranked football team in the country, pummeled Iowa State by a score of 73-14, ISU tailback Troy Davis earned praise from Cornhusker players and coaches.

Davis, who touched the ball only four times in the first quarter, finished the game with 28 carries for 121 yards.

“I think he’s a very fine back. He’s very good at finding creases, he’s very durable and strong. He’s very quick,” said NU head football coach Tom Osborne.

Husker defensive coordinator Charlie McBride was even more impressed with Davis’ performance against the Huskers’ rushing defense, which is second best in the nation.

“He’s one of those guys that has that special something. He’s definitely for real. I don’t think he’s one of those guys that will hurt you with speed, but for getting yards, he’s really something,” McBride said.

Nebraska sophomore defensive lineman Jason Peter, who lines up next to his brother, senior Christian Peter, was assigned the task of stopping Davis up the middle.

“He’s definitely a good back. He’s so small, sometimes you lose him behind the lineman. Just when you think you know you’re going to have him, he busts it and runs around the corner for 20 or 30 yards,” the younger Peter said.

Cyclone freshman quarterback Todd Bandhauer had a rough day but showed his potential against the Big Red defense.

He went 9-19 for 116 yards with a touchdown pass to Ed Williams in his second game as a starter.

“He’s got a great arm. He’s going to be a pain in the neck for years to come,” McBride said.

Saturday’s game also marked the return of former starting Husker tailback Lawrence Phillips, who had been suspended for assault charges filed against him by his ex-girlfriend. Phillips ran the ball 12 times for 68 yards and one touchdown.

“Coach Osborne gave me another chance to come out here and play, and my teammates are supporting me. I thank him for that. I’ve been working on anger problems and going to counseling,” Phillips said.

Phillips was greeted by cheers from the crowd on his entry to the game and for his touchdown.

“I tried to put the crowd out of my head. I wanted to score a touchdown on my first carry, but that didn’t happen,” he said.

Nebraska freshman Ahman Green, who is now the Huskers’ No. 1 tailback, had as many carries as Phillips, but accumulated 176 yards and three touchdowns.

Phillips’ comments left speculation as to whether he will return for his senior year, or possibly turn pro.

“Ahman deserves the No. 1 position. He’ll definitely be up for the Heisman next year. I look forward to watching him,” Phillips said.