#12 Iowa vs. Michigan Preview

October 10th 8:00 ET ABC

Line: Iowa -8

The Hawkeyes had trouble dealing with success last week as they narrowly defeated Arkansas State in Iowa City. Iowa escaped with a 24-21 victory. This week they get back into conference play as they battle a Michigan squad who lost their first game of the season at Michigan State.

Iowa will face a beleaguered Wolverine defense who gave up 417 net yards to Michigan State and 467 net yards to Indiana. Head Coach Kirk Ferentz likes to play it close to the vest which could result in a very tight ball game. Freshmen RB Adam Robinson should have a field day and QB Ricky Stanzi will make some big plays.

On defense, the Hawkeyes have been very good. They are giving up only 13 PPG. However, in Michigan they face a horse of a different color. Freshmen QB Tate Forcier has the “it” factor. He simply makes plays. It’s rarely pretty or done in a fundamental fashion but in the clutch he is hard to beat. Michigan plays better in a scramble/no huddle type of situation. If they come out in a spread formation with a fast paced offense; they will give the Hawkeyes problems.

Prediction: Iowa is better on the offensive and defensive line and that should be the difference in the ball game; not to mention, 70,000 plus screaming fans in Kinnick Stadium. However, the magic of Tate Forcier will keep the game close. Iowa 27 Michigan 21

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