College Football News calling for offensive firepower in Iowa vs. Utah State
Signs are pointing to the Iowa Hawkeyes’ new quarterback Cade McNamara suiting up and playing in his first game in Kinnick. The quarterback suffered a quad injury a few weeks back in practice but all reports from Iowa sound like McNamara is healing and has been practicing with the team. He has been medically cleared and now awaits the game-time decision on Saturday.
Obviously, Iowa fans and supporters want to see McNamara out there and what he can bring to the offense. Should he not be able to go, Deacon Hill will step into his place and should be able to handle the duties. Whoever suits up at quarterback could be in for a strong day against a Utah State defense that was suspect last year and will have a hard time matching up against Iowa’s size and strength.
Prior to kickoff, College Football News outlined what this game looks like from each side, how each team could win, and their final prediction.
Why Utah State can win
But this year’s bunch is healthy, the transfer portal is helping in a huge way with a boatload of options coming in to fortify all positions – there’s a solid two-deep and a good rotation – and Iowa’s offense might not get out to the roaring start it’s hoping for. – Fiutak, CFN
Utah State’s chance in this game lies within Iowa needing some time to gel and have the new offense figure things out. This defense did allow 405 points in 2022 so a drastic improvement would need to be made to even slow down the Hawkeyes.
Why Iowa can win
Utah State’s defense really will be better, but the offense is replacing too many key players and won’t move the ball efficiently or consistently. Iowa was second in the nation in total defense and scoring D, but it’s missing a few players. Everything will still be more than fine – the secondary will be amazing and nothing on the ground is happening against the loaded front four. – Fiutak, CFN
It is hard to argue with CFN on this analysis. Iowa’s defense has incredible depth along the front and a secondary that could wind up being the best in the nation. They don’t have to get creative and can rely on Phil Parker’s fundamentals to shut down the Aggies.
Who will win
Utah State is a restaurant quality bowl team – the defense won’t let the game get out of hand – but after watching the offense sputter and cough so much over the last few years, this will feel like Christmas for Iowa fans. – Fiutak, CFN
CFN is calling for a comfortable Hawkeyes win and some offensive firepower behind the arm of Cade McNamara. If Iowa could get multiple touchdowns, some sustained drives, and even convert a few third downs, this offense will feel like it is rolling.
Final prediction
CFN has the Hawkeyes winning this one with a rather comfortable final score of 34-10. Not too different from our predictions as the Hawkeyes Wire staff took Iowa in wins coming by scores of 27-7, 34-10, and 20-7.
[lawrence-auto-related count=5 category=17]
Contact/Follow us @HawkeyesWire on Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Iowa news, notes, and opinions.
Follow Riley on Twitter: @rileydonald7
