Fans of defense are going to like Michigan vs. Iowa. Two of the best defensive teams will meet on Saturday in Ann Arbor in a top-25 matchup.
Both teams are 3-0. Michigan and Iowa each defeated a Power-4 opponent in the lead up to Big Ten play. Michigan defeated 11th-ranked Oklahoma, 17-10. Iowa knocked off Iowa State 16-13.
Iowa fans are talking up their offense and quarterback Hank Brown. It's something that Iowa fans always seem to do. The QB did have a stellar game against Northern Iowa, completing 12-of-12 passes, but he averaged less than seven yards per pass attempt in each of the first two games.
Iowa's offensive line is one of the best in the Big Ten. The Hawkeyes rushed for over 400 yards last season, so the run defense will be critical for the Wolverines. Michigan's offense also needs to establish a run game, and most importantly, Bryce Underwood needs to take care of the ball.
Franky, the entire team does, because the ball has been put on the ground by Michigan football players way too much. Not just Underwood.
Michigan announced on Friday that it will wear the all-blue uniforms. The Wolverines are 13-2 wearing those uniforms at home. This game reminds me of the 2019 affair, a game that Michigan won 10-3.
It feels like it could be that sort of game. The under seems like a smart bet, so let's take a final look at the odds, plus our last prediction before kickoff.
Michigan vs. Iowa last-minute odds
The Wolverines are a 5.5-point favorite. The over/under is 38.5 and the moneyline is -210 for Michigan and +172 for Iowa.
Michigan vs. Iowa weather
The forecast looks solid. It should 70 degrees and sunny for the 3:30 PM EST kickoff on CBS. The wind is expected to reach just six miles per hour.
Michigan vs. Iowa predictions
Points will be a premium. It's hard to see either pass offense finding much success. Michigan will probably try to limit Underwood's pass attempts, but it will have to run the ball to make it happen.
If Iowa's wide receivers can beat Michigan's cornerbacks in man coverage, the Hawkeyes will win the game. U-M fans will take that bet, and as long as the Wolverines can avoid giving the game away with turnovers, the Michigan defense/running game will do just enough to win.
Michigan 16, Iowa 10.
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