The Cy-Hawk rivalry game is officially here and this is a big one for the Hawkeyes. Of course every time these two team face off, it is big, but the Hawkeyes have a chance to take down a ranked opponent in this one. After a big win over Kansas State in Week 0 and a dominant win over South Dakota last week, the Cyclones are now ranked No. 16.
Iowa struggled a bit in the first half against Albany last week, but in the second half, quarterback Mark Gronowski was able to pull it together to build a lead. Gronowski did experience some cramps that took him out late in that game, so that is something to pay attention to today.
Here are the final odds for this matchup and Dear Old Gold's final prediction for the game.
Final odds for Iowa vs. Iowa State
Odds provided by FanDuel Sportsbook
Spread
- Iowa State: -3.5 (-108)
- Iowa: +3.5 (112)
Moneyline
- Iowa State: -170
- Iowa: +140
Total
- O/U 42.5 (-110/-110)
Iowa vs. Iowa State final prediction
Iowa lost a real close one to Iowa State last season in a game that was controlled by the defenses. This season, it could very well be the same, as both offenses went through some changes this offseason. The Cyclones still have Rocco Becht leading the way, while Iowa now has Gronowski. However, the biggest change for Iowa is not having Kaleb Johnson.
Johnson really broke out against Iowa State last season and basically led the entire offense, so his absence certainly will be felt in this matchup. Iowa needs to get the run game going against Iowa State so it can open up more in the passing game for Gronowski. If the run game gets going well enough, it could give Iowa the edge.
Of course, Iowa's defense is going to come out hot under Phil Parker, but the offense will really need to help in this game and put some points up early to allow the defense to close it out. If Iowa can do that, they have a serious chance to pull off this upset in Ames, a very tough place to win.