Ex-Iowa quarterback Joe Labas throws for 342 yards in Central Michigan debut

IOWA CITY — Ex-Iowa quarterback Joe Labas made quite the impression in his first in-game opportunity since the 2022 Music City Bowl.

Labas, making his Central Michigan debut, completed 18-of-24 passes for 342 yards and three touchdowns in the Chippewas’ 66-10 win over Central Connecticut State on Thursday. He did not have any interceptions.

Of course, the competition was a far cry from the Big Ten. FCS-level Central Connecticut State finished the last three seasons with losing records. Only 10 FCS teams allowed more passing yards per attempt last year than the Blue Devils.

Labas transferred from Iowa following the 2023 season. He did not see any game action in 2023 despite Cade McNamara’s season-ending injury and Deacon Hill’s struggles at the position. Iowa’s completion rate of 48.9 percent was second-worst among 130 FBS teams.

His lone start as a Hawkeye came in the 2022 Music City Bowl, where he went 14-of-24 for 139 yards and one touchdown.

Comments: john.steppe@thegazette.com

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