The Iowa Hawkeyes face a tough challenge this Saturday as they travel to Columbus to take on the Ohio State Buckeyes. Ohio State, currently ranked No. 3 in the nation, is a 19.5-point favorite and has shown no signs of slowing down this season. The Buckeyes have been prolific on offense, averaging 43.5 points per game, while their defense has been equally formidable, allowing just 13.5 points per contest. Iowa, meanwhile, is coming off a solid 31-14 victory over Minnesota but remains inconsistent, particularly on the offensive side. The Hawkeyes’ offense, led by running back Kaleb Johnson, has been one-dimensional, averaging just 209 passing yards per game. Ohio State’s stout front seven will look to stymie Iowa’s ground game and force quarterback Deacon Hill into uncomfortable situations.

Ohio State’s quarterback Will Howard has been efficient, throwing for 1,150 yards and 12 touchdowns. The Buckeyes also have a powerful running game led by TreVeyon Henderson, who has 415 rushing yards and 7 touchdowns. Iowa’s defense, while ranked 22nd nationally, has struggled with missed assignments in the secondary, allowing big plays through the air. This matchup could favor Ohio State, which has multiple playmakers, including wide receivers Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka. Ultimately, Iowa will need to slow down the game and control time of possession to have any chance of an upset. Ohio State’s balanced offense will likely put pressure on Iowa early, and the Hawkeyes will have to avoid falling into a quick deficit. Expect Ohio State to exploit mismatches in Iowa’s secondary and pull away in the second half.