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Prediction: Iowa 20, Minnesota 17
This one stays close the entire way. These teams are similar and always play each other closely. Four of the last five games have been decided by five points or less and I believe that this one follows that trend.
Let’s look at Minnesota’s offense. They are only averaging 3.8 yards on the ground and have 390 rushing yards through three games. Iowa’s defense is allowing 2.1 yards per carry and only 169 total rushing yards through three games.
Iowa will look to force Max Brosmer, the FCS transfer to beat them. He is completing 68.8% of his passes but only averaging 209 yards per game. Against North Carolina, their one Power Five game, he threw for just 165 yards. Iowa will dare him to beat them.
As for defense, the Gophers are stout. They allow just 2.6 yards per carry and 74.3 rushing yards per game. They are ballhawks, too, with seven interceptions. Iowa has to protect the ball here. Cade McNamara must make smart decisions.
Minnesota dares Iowa to beat them through the air as they load the box. Running back Kaleb Johnson gets slowed down but still has a couple of chunk plays to provide just enough life. McNamara finds the endzone through the air while the defense wins the turnover battle. Drew Stevens hits two field goals that prove to be the difference.
Iowa wins a tight, stressful Big Ten opener on the road in a win that is a massive confidence boost.
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