Iowa Hawkeyes (2-1) vs. Minnesota Golden Gophers (2-1)
September 21, 2024 7:30 pm EDT
The Line: Minnesota Golden Gophers +2; Over/Under: 37.5
(Get latest betting odds)
In this article, we will formulate a Minnesota vs Iowa prediction for this College Football Week 4 game on Saturday, September 21st, at Huntington Bank Stadium. Let’s take a look at an Iowa Hawkeyes vs Minnesota Golden Gophers pick.
Minnesota Is More Balanced
For years Minnesota has been a run-first team and even though that still might be the case, they are a lot more balanced. Minnesota comes into this game with a 2-1 record overall, with the only loss coming against North Carolina in the first game. Since that point, the Gophers’ defense has stepped up, and they haven’t given up any runs. In the last game against Nevada, Minnesota scored 27 points while the defense gave up zero points.
Max Brosmer might be the most talented quarterback Minnesota has had in the PJ Fleck Era, and he completed 16 of his 29 passes for 191 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Darius Taylor is one of the most talented running backs in the Big Ten, and he finished with 11 carries for 124 yards and a touchdown. Wide receiver Daniel Jackson finished with four catches for 61 yards. In this game, the Gophers need to take good care of the ball and try to put pressure on the Iowa defense.
Can Iowa’s Offense Score Enough?
Iowa comes into this game with a 2-1 record overall, and they would have a 3-0 record if they didn’t blow the game against Iowa State. In the last game against Troy, the defense wasn’t actually as good, but the offense was impressive, scoring 38 points. Kaleb Johnson was running wild on the ground, finishing with 25 carries for 173 yards and two touchdowns. Cade McNamara completed 19 of his 23 passes for 176 yards and zero touchdowns.
McNamara might not be the most dynamic quarterback, but if he can complete 19 of his 23 passes in this game, Iowa is going to have a great chance to come out on top. In this game, the defense is going to need to create a turnover or two. If they can create a couple of turnovers, they should be in good shape to pick up a victory.
Iowa vs Minnesota Prediction
Give me the Gophers as the underdogs. I really like the way Brosmer has played, and the Gophers have Darius Taylor, who will have another strong game, even against a good defense. The Gophers defense has done a good job of creating turnovers, and it’s going to be the same here. Minnesota is going to get out to a fast start and the defense will make the stops late. Back Minnesota to win this game as underdogs. If they become favorites by game-time, take them as the favorites, laying the points.
