I don’t typically look into strength of schedule too much, but both Iowa and Northwestern look pretty even statistically on paper as both have struggling offenses and have been led by their defenses and both are coming off byes. This will be Northwestern’s third game in a row facing an opponent off a bye and they lost their last 2, but at least they will be off a bye themselves which should help here. A close look at Iowa’s defense ranked 26th in yards/play allowed reveals they have faced an average 74.5 ranked offense form a yds/play perspective without a single opponent in the top 50. To put that in perspective Northwestern’s defense has faced 4 in the top 50 and an average of 43rd. Looking at the stats I’d say Northwestern’s unit is more equipped to have a better defensive game.

Offensively Iowa has faced an average 80th ranked defense form a yards/play perspective and again not a single opponent in the top 50. Northwestern’s average opponent defense ranked 43rd and they have faced 4 in the top 30 so it’s no wonder their offense has struggled. Northwestern’s defense has held every single team under their season average in rushing yards per carry with exception of Wisconsin who they ironically beat. Iowa is average already ranking 89th in rushing the ball and should have issues moving the ball. I’m expecting a low scoring game here and I’ll take the under dog that’s not getting credit. You could argue that 4 or 5 of Northwestern’s opponents are better than the top 2 teams that Iowa faced which is Pitt and Maryland. Pat Fitzgerald has also had a lot of success against Iowa 5-3 all time and 3-2 on the road.


Kentucky nearly upset Miss State at home, and they have clearly shown they are team on the rise. Mark Stoops knows how to coach and recruit and they had a top 20 recruiting class this past year already showing dividends. They get back Boom Williams which should help the offense find more balance. Patrick Towles however is showing he’s going to be able to play at the next level and is living up to his 4 star ranking coming out of high school.

Missouri’s offense is just terrible right now, they rank 113th passing the ball as they lost a ton of weapons from last year and Matty Mauk just looks lost. That should allow Kentucky to gear up to stop the run. These teams have 3 common opponents in SEC play and Kentucky is better in +/- yardage in all three. This spread is still hinging on the brand of Missouri football (from last year) and the fact that Kentucky hasn’t been good in a very long time, but that’s starting to change. Missouri has not played well at home and I don’t see that changing here.

Where to find Freddy?