Iowa Football: 3 bold predictions against Penn State

2. Iowa’s running game will excel

So far, many have been thoroughly pleased with the success of Iowa’s rushing attack. While they have not had a player rush for over 100 yards in a game yet, that is mainly contributed to the fact the Hawkeyes rotate through three running backs. All three backs, Ivory Kelly-Martin, Toren Young and Mekhi Sargent have shown flashes of brilliance all season long. In Penn State’s seven games this season, six of their opponents have gotten above the 100 rushing yard mark as a team.

Another reason Iowa has been successful on the ground is their offensive line. Last year, inconsistencies plagued the Hawkeyes offensive line. This season, they have been one of the most consistent offensive line’s in the country, as they have paved the way for Iowa to rush for over 100 yards in every game. The leader of the offensive line has been Keegan Render and Kirk Ferentz spoke very highly of him in his weekly press conference on Tuesday:

"“We ask our center to do an awful lot up there … He’s done a good job with that. Keegan does a good job inside. He’s our most experienced guy, our most confident, he’s the hub of that group up front.”"

Once again, Saturday’s weather will also help Iowa’s rushing attack as the conditions will likely force Iowa to lean on the run a little more than usual. It’s likely that Iowa finishes with more than 200 yards on the ground for the second straight week.