The UCLA Bruins host the Iowa Hawkeyes on Friday night, putting the two programs on a collision course with Big Ten implications at the Rose Bowl.
On paper, UCLA and Iowa present an interesting matchup, particularly in the run game. Iowa boasts the 10th-ranked rushing offense in the country, tallying 222.3 yards per game behind tailback Kaleb Johnson, while the Bruins’ stout 11th-ranked run defense allows only 100.4 yards per game.
So, who will have the advantage on Friday night?
In many ways, the Bruins.
Iowa’s offense is built around the run, embracing their hard-nosed, old-school playstyle. When Iowa takes the lead, they can impose their will, run the ball, control the clock, and pile on the points.
That said, Iowa’s reliance on the run is also its greatest weakness. If the Hawkeyes fall behind, their inability to throw the ball makes them incredibly predictable and easy to defend. Averaging only 133.8 yards per game through the air, Iowa’s dismal passing offense ranks 129th in the country, with quarterback Cade McNamara completing only 60% of his passes.
If UCLA’s offense can jump out to an early lead, the Bruins can pressure McNamara and the Hawkeyes to throw the ball and take away their best attribute, potentially lifting them to a win.