Iowa Football: 3 bold predictions vs. Northwestern in Week 10

Despite its solid 6-2 record, it’s been a roller-coaster season for Iowa football. Picked by many to be near the top of the Big Ten West, the Hawkeyes currently sit in a tie for first place, with Minnesota holding the tiebreaker after defeating Iowa for the first time since 2014.

Once again, the Hawkeyes have been held back by a putrid offense that ranks dead last in the FBS. It certainly hasn’t helped that starting quarterback Cade McNamara and tight ends Luke Lachey and Erick All have suffered season-ending injuries, but there were still issues even with those three in the lineup.

Backup quarterback Deacon Hill has been inconsistent, to say the least, only completing a measly 37 percent of his passes, but has been able to keep his job (for now) under center. The only positive from this squad has been the defense, which has allowed only 14.5 points per game.

Oh, and not to mention, controversial offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz was effectively fired by interim athletic director Beth Goetz on Monday afternoon, though he will remain with the team through the end of the season. It will be interesting to see how this Iowa team can battle adversity and make a run to the conference championship game.

This week, the Hawkeyes travel to historic Wrigley Field to take on the Northwestern Wildcats, who come in with a surprising record of 4-4 under interim head coach David Braun.

When these two teams meet, anything can happen, so it’s time to get bold for this matchup in Chicago.