ESPN’s early Cheez-It Citrus Bowl prediction pits Hawkeyes, Volunteers in one-score game

The Iowa Hawkeyes are no strangers to playing close, one-score games. They played in six games this season that were decided by one score or less and came out with a 5-1 record.

Their upcoming bowl game, the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl against the Tennessee Volunteers shows early signs that this may be no different. ESPN believes that the Hawkeyes could be in for another nail-biter that is decided by just a touchdown.

ESPN’s Adam Rittenberg has the Hawkeyes falling by seven points as they are unable to find enough firepower to match a Tennessee offense that has immense talent at their skill positions.

Brian Ferentz’s final game as Iowa offensive coordinator will come against an opponent that will require some scoring from the Hawkeyes. Tennessee isn’t nearly as potent as the 2022 team, but still averages 31.5 points per game. Both teams lack signature wins on their profiles, and Tennessee’s performance against opponents with defenses like Iowa’s isn’t overly encouraging. But the Vols generally take care of the ball and will move it enough with quarterback Joe Milton III, running back Jaylen Wright and others. Iowa puts up a spirited effort, but the warts on offense are just too big to overcome.

Prediction: Tennessee 23, Iowa 16 – Adam Rittenberg, ESPN

This game is going to be strength against strength when they line up. Tennessee averages 31.5 points per game offensively, while Iowa surrenders just 13.23 points per game.

Tennessee is last in the nation in time of possession with just 24 minutes per game. On one hand, that can help Iowa’s defense if they get stops by staying rested on quick possessions and forcing punts. On the other, it could be a long day if the defense can’t find its footing and the offense continues to sputter.

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