On Saturday night, the No. 2 Michigan Wolverines will look to secure their spot in the College Football Playoff when they take on No. 13 Iowa in the Big Ten Championship Game, which will take place in Indianapolis.
When Michigan has the ball
When the Wolverines have the football, they are going to want to do what they have done so well in 2021 and that is RUN THE FOOTBALL!
The Hawkeyes are a very solid defensive team and they do an excellent job of shutting down the opposing team’s rushing attacks. that being said, Ohio State also had a solid rushing defense and we all know that worked out.
If Iowa is going to keep this game close, they are going to have to force a couple of timely turnovers, which they are very good at.
When Iowa has the ball
Offensively speaking, Iowa is very limited offensively and it is tough to see them putting drives together against Michigan’s defense.
The Hawkeye’s offensive tackles may be the weakest point on their team and if the Wolverines can force Iowa into third-and-long situations, you can bet Aidan Hutchingson and David Ojabo will be licking their chops
Intangibles
For Iowa to stay in this game, they are going to have to dominate on special teams.
If Charlie Jones, who was named the Big Ten Rodgers-Dwight Return Specialist of the Year on Tuesday can break a couple, the Hawkeyes will be dangerous.
Final Score Prediction
Michigan has the better offense, they match up very well defensively, and they have the better kicking/punting game.
For Iowa to have a chance in this one, they will have to force turnovers and score on defense/special teams.
Jim Harbaugh knows this and he will have Michigan ready.
Michigan 27 (-11)
Iowa 10