Iowa State at Iowa (Saturday – 7:30pm ET)
Iowa has lost consecutive games in this rivalry, but I expect a completely different scene on Saturday night.
With the departure of Matt Campbell to Penn State, Iowa State doesn’t return a single starter from the 2025 team. The Cyclones are built primarily off transfer talent from non-Power schools, and even the FCS level. I have Iowa State ranked as one of the worst five teams in the Power 4, and I expect a long night against this Iowa defense.
While Northern Illinois is one of the worst FBS teams in the country, Iowa still completely embarrassed it in Week 1. UNI was unable to gain any yards on the ground and got shutout in a 40-0 loss. UNI didn’t gain a first down until late in the game. Meanwhile, Iowa posted over 500 yards of offense, and got a typical special teams touchdown.
Off consecutive losses in the rivalry, I expect the Hawkeyes to be out for blood on Saturday night at home. Virtually none of these players for Iowa State have been a part of this rivalry. They are about to learn what its all about. Iowa’s going to look to squeeze the life out of the Cyclones, and should be able to do so successfully.
We’re dealing with a big spread here, but this has blowout potential written all over it. The Hawkeyes have the best WR room they’ve had in years, and will be able to move the ball through the air. Combine that with a lethal running game, and Iowa will find its points in this game. Given the recent history of this matchup, Kirk Ferentz has all the motivation he needs to make this a lopsided score.
Pick Six Previews made the number on this game Iowa -21, showing plenty of value on the Hawkeyes. I’m calling for a one sided game that’s dominated by the Hawkeyes on Saturday night in primetime at Kinnick Stadium.
CFB Pick: Iowa -13.5 (-120) – 2-units
