Iowa did not control their own destiny when it came to the Big Ten West race coming into Thanksgiving weekend, as even a 7th straight win over border-rival Nebraska did not seal an Iowa berth to Indianapolis. The Hawkeyes had to wait and see if northern-border rival Minnesota could upset Wisconsin to give Iowa the West. PJ Fleck and company did just that in a 23-13 upset of the Badgers, giving Iowa their first trip to Indianapolis since 2015.
Waiting for Kirk Ferentz’s Hawkeyes in Lucas Oil Stadium on Saturday night, will be the #2 Michigan Wolverines, who jumped into the 2nd spot following a more-than convincing win over arch-rival Ohio State, 42-27, the first win for the Wolverines against the Buckeyes since 2011.
The Wolverines, who are making their first-ever Big Ten Championship Game appearance, are lead by a strong identity of smash-mouth football and a dominating defense, something head coach Jim Harbaugh has wanted to instill from Day 1 in Ann Arbor. Michigan’s defense has been led by the play of defensive ends David Ojabo and All-American Aidan Hutchinson, who collected 3 sacks against Ohio State on Saturday.
Michigan’s rushing attack is as dynamic as any in college football as well, as the Wolverines are led by the 1-2 punch of Hassan Haskins and Blake Corum. Haskins has rushed for over 1,200 yards and 18 touchdowns, while Corum has rushed for nearly 900 yards and 10 touchdowns. Haskins rushed for 5 touchdowns in the Wolverines win over Ohio State.
Iowa will look to another complete team effort for a chance to upset the Wolverines in the Big Ten Championship Game. Iowa defeated Nebraska 28-21 on Black Friday, while only scoring one offensive touchdown, in the drive that put the Hawkeyes ahead for good. Kirk and Brian Ferentz know that the offense will need to be the sharpest its been all season, and having a fully-healthy Spencer Petras back in the fold gives the Hawkeyes a chance to execute to that ability.
Iowa’s defense, which is in the top 10 of the country against the run, will have their biggest test with the 1-2 punch of Hassan Haskins and Blake Corum. While Iowa has faced running backs such as Breece Hall and Braelon Allen this season, the Michigan offensive line will make the challenge even greater.
Kickoff is slated for 7 PM from Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, the game will air on FOX, or you can listen to Hawkeye Radio Network’s call of the action on 92.9 FM/1570 AM KZWC.