Iowa Hawkeyes betting odds line spread pick predictions best bets

Iowa State at Iowa odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Iowa State at Iowa odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The No. 3 Iowa State Cyclones (7-1) and the Iowa Hawkeyes (7-2) meet Thursday at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. ET (FS1). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s college basketball odds around the Iowa State vs. Iowa odds, and make our expert college basketball picks and predictions.

The Cyclones have won 4 in a row, while covering the past 3 outings. That includes a 100-58 win over the Jackson State Tigers as a 35.5-point favorite on Sunday. It topped the Marquette Golden Eagles prior to that in a marquee matchup on Dec. 4, winning 81-70 as a 5.5-point favorite as the Under (153) cashed. The Over is 4-1 in the past 5 games.

For the Hawkeyes, they suffered an 85-83 loss at the Michigan Wolverines last time out Saturday, but Iowa covered as a 9.5-point underdog as the Over (159) cashed. Iowa has won 2 of 3 games, while going 4-2 against the spread (ATS) in the past 6 games, with the Over hitting in each of the past 3 outings.

– Rankings: USA TODAY Sports Men’s Basketball Coaches Poll

Stream select live college basketball games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Iowa State at Iowa odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of college basketball odds. Lines last updated at 10:36 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Iowa State -250 (bet $250 to win $100) | Iowa +200 (bet $100 to win $200)
Against the spread: Iowa State -5.5 (-115) | Iowa +5.5 (-105)
Over/Under: 160.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

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Iowa State at Iowa picks and predictions

Prediction

Iowa State 87, Iowa 77

Moneyline

Iowa State (-250) will cost you 2 1/2 times your potential return, and that’s way too much risk in a rivalry game. The home side has won 4 in a row, with the last road team to win outright coming in Iowa’s 84-68 win in Ames on Dec. 12, 2019.

PASS. Bet the spread and/or total instead.

Against the spread

Despite the home winning streak in the series, back IOWA STATE -5.5 (-115) on the road.

The Cyclones are a top-5 team, and they’ve been battle tested this season with wins over the Colorado Buffaloes, Dayton Flyers and Marquette, and a narrow 2-point loss to fellow top-5 team the Auburn Tigers in a neutral-floor battle.

Iowa +5.5 (-105) is just 2-4 ATS in 6 games at Carver-Hawkeye this season, and it isn’t up to the task against a top-5 team, at least not yet.

Over/Under

OVER 160.5 (-105) is the play in this Hawkeye State battle.

The Over has hit in 3 in a row for Iowa, going for 80 or more points in each of the outings. The Hawkeyes have allowed 77 or more points in each of the games, too.

For I-State, the Over has hit in 4 of the past 5 outings, going for 81 or more points in each of its 8 games to date.

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Nebraska at Iowa odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Nebraska at Iowa odds and lines, with college football expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Nebraska Cornhuskers (6-5, 3-5 Big Ten) meet the Iowa Hawkeyes (7-4, 5-3) at Kinnick Stadium Friday. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET (NBC). Below, we look at Nebraska vs. Iowa odds from BetMGM Sportsbook’s college football odds and make our expert college football picks and predictions.

Nebraska snapped a 4-game losing streak with a dominant 44-25 win over Wisconsin, covering as a 1-point home favorite. The Over 40 hit with ease.

QB Dylan Raiola delivered an efficient performance, completing 28-of-38 passes for 293 yards and a TD, while RB Emmett Johnson powered the ground game with 113 rushing yards and RB Dante Dowdell scored 3 TDs.

Iowa secured its third win in 4 games by defeating Maryland 29-13 and covering as 4.5-point road favorites. The Over 41 hit as the Hawkeyes dominated on the ground.

RB Kaleb Johnson led with 35 carries for 164 yards and a TD and RB Kamari Moulton added 114 yards and a score on 12 carries. Iowa’s defense shined, intercepting Maryland QB MJ Morris twice to seal the victory.

– Rankings: US LBM Coaches Poll, conducted by the American Football Coaches Association and USA TODAY Sports

Stream select live college football games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Nebraska at Iowa odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of college football odds. Lines last updated at 12:05 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Nebraska +135 (bet $100 to win $135) | Iowa -160 (bet $160 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Nebraska +3.5 (-115) | Iowa -3.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 40.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

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Nebraska at Iowa picks and predictions

Prediction

Iowa 28, Nebraska 21

Moneyline

PASS.

I feel like the trendy pick is to take Nebraska (+135) on the moneyline but I’m going to other way. This will be a Friday night letdown for the Cornhuskers. I’m gonna take my bet to the spread with the Hawkeyes.

Against the spread

BET IOWA -3.5 (-105).

The Cornhuskers have covered just once in their last 3 games, while Iowa has covered in 3 of their last 4. Nebraska is coming off an emotional win over Wisconsin to secure its first bowl bid since 2016, but their inconsistency remains an issue, with 5 losses this season and struggles at QB.

Iowa boasts one of the nation’s best rushing attacks and a defense ranked 26th against the run. The Hawkeyes have forced over 20 turnovers, which could spell trouble for Nebraska’s freshman quarterback. Iowa has also dominated this series, winning 8 of the last 9 meetings and covering in 7 of the last 10.

With a night game in Iowa City and the Hawkeyes’ steady play on both sides of the ball, Iowa is the safer pick against Nebraska’s up-and-down performances.

Over/Under

BET OVER 40.5 (-105).

Despite both teams boasting strong defenses, this matchup could hit the Over. Nebraska has gone Over in 2 of its last 3 games, while Iowa has hit the Over in 5 of its last 6 contests. Additionally, the over is 6-0 in Iowa’s home games and 3-1 in Nebraska games with totals of 42 or lower. Both offenses are capable of breaking off explosive plays, making the low total in this game an intriguing opportunity.

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Iowa at UCLA odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Iowa at UCLA odds and lines, with college football expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Iowa Hawkeyes (6-3, 4-2 Big Ten) take on the UCLA Bruins (3-5, 2-4) at the Rose Bowl Friday. Kickoff is set for 9 p.m. ET (FOX). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s college football odds around the Iowa vs. UCLA odds, and make our expert college football picks and predictions.

The Hawkeyes eradicated the Wisconsin Badgers 42-10 as 2.5-point favorites last week for their second straight win. RB Kaleb Johnson rushed 24 times for 135 yards and 3 TDs. QB Brendan Sullivan threw the ball just 10 times with 7 completions for 93 yards. Iowa, which blew out Northwestern 40-14 the week before, is on a 4-0 Over run.

The Bruins are also on a 2-game win streak. They upset Nebraska 27-20 as 7.5-point road underdogs last Saturday and won at Rutgers 35-32 as 4-point dogs Oct. 19 before a bye. Against the Huskers, QB Ethan Garbers was 17-for-25 for 219 yards with 2 TDs. He also led the Bruins in rushing with 56 yards on 6 carries — lead RB T.J. Harden had 46 yards on 11 carries.

– Rankings: US LBM Coaches Poll, conducted by the American Football Coaches Association and USA TODAY Sports

Stream select live college football games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Iowa at UCLA odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of college football odds. Lines last updated at 1:59 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Iowa -250 (bet $250 to win $100) | UCLA +190 (bet $100 to win $190)
Against the spread (ATS): Iowa -6.5 (-115) | UCLA +6.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 44.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Iowa at UCLA picks and predictions

Prediction

Iowa 31, UCLA 27

Moneyline

UCLA (+190) is 0-3 at home this season. Meanwhile, Iowa (-250) is 1-2 away from the Hawkeye State. This feels like a trap game. Iowa’s last road trip ended in a 32-20 defeat at Michigan State as a 6.5-point favorite Oct. 19. I’m not confident at all in the Hawkeyes, and even more so at -250.

PASS.

Against the spread

I like UCLA in this pocket. The Bruins return home after pulling off back-to-back upsets on the road. They’ll use that momentum to pluck the Hawkeyes and stay within a touchdown.

TAKE UCLA +6.5 (-105).

Over/Under

Iowa is 8-1 O/U, largely in part to its propensity to go north of 30. In fact, the Hawkeyes have gone for more than 30 points 6 times this season. Ironically enough, that was in all 6 of their wins. Meanwhile, the Bruins are 3-5 O/U, but they’ve gone Over in 2 straight.

TAKE OVER 44.5 (-110).

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Washington at Iowa odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Washington at Iowa odds and lines, with college football expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Iowa Hawkeyes (3-2, 1-1 Big Ten) welcome the Washington Huskies (4-2, 2-1) to Kinnick Stadium Saturday. Kickoff is set for noon ET (FOX). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s college football odds around the Washington vs. Iowa odds, and make our expert college football picks and predictions.

The Huskies opened their season with back-to-back wins, but have traded off winning and losing in the last 4 weeks. They are coming off a 27-17 home win over the No. 21 Michigan Wolverines Oct. 5. Washington covered as a 1.5-point favorite and is 3-3 against the spread (ATS) on the season. It is led by QB Will Rogers, who has thrown 12 TDs and just 1 INT on the season.

The Hawkeyes looked strong coming off their 31-14 Week 4 road win over the Minnesota Golden Gophers, closing as 3-point favorites. However, they were walloped by the No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes 35-7 in Week 6. Iowa is 2-3 ATS on the season and 4-1 O/U. It has scored at least 31 points in 3 of 5 games. The Hawkeyes are led by former Michigan QB Cade McNamara and RB Kaleb Johnson, the latter of which has 10 rushing TDs on the season.

– Rankings: US LBM Coaches Poll, conducted by the American Football Coaches Association and USA TODAY Sports

Stream select live college football games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Washington at Iowa odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of college football odds. Lines last updated Friday at 1:15 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Washington +120 (bet $100 to win $120) | Iowa -145 (bet $145 to win $100)
Against the spread: Washington +2.5 (+100) | Iowa -2.5 (-120)
Over/Under (O/U): 42.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Washington at Iowa picks and predictions

Prediction

Iowa 21, Washington 20

Moneyline

PASS.

Washington (+120) is worthy of a look on the moneyline, as is Iowa (-145). The better play here is the Huskies with a few points though, so the suggestion would ultimately be to pass on a moneyline wager.

Against the spread

BET WASHINGTON +2.5 (+100).

How do the Hawkeyes attack you? They win on the ground. Iowa’s McNamara has thrown for 686 yards in 5 games. The offense for Iowa is made or broken by Johnson, who has 771 rushing yards. The Huskies rank 45th in the league in opponents’ rushing yards per attempt (3.9). Iowa is just 1-2 ATS at home and 0-1 ATS as a single-digit home favorite.

The Huskies have had a field-goal spread or tighter twice and are 1-1 ATS in those games. Washington has scored at least 24 points in 4 of its 6 games and has the better quarterback on the field. Take WASHINGTON +2.5 (+100).

Over/Under

BET UNDER 42.5 (-110).

The Hawkeyes might be 4-1 O/U, but the Huskies are 1-5 O/U. Washington has allowed single-digit points to its opponents in 3 of 6 games, allowing more than 17 just twice this season. At the same time, the Huskies have topped 24 in just 3 of those 6. They are 1-2 O/U in conference games.

Iowa is 1-1 O/U in conference games and has scored 20 or fewer points in 2 of its last 4 games, allowing 21 or fewer in 4 of 5, with the only team scoring north of that being Ohio State. Couple it all together, and back UNDER 42.5 (-110).

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Iowa at Ohio State odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Iowa at Ohio State odds and lines, with college football expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Iowa Hawkeyes (3-1, 1-0 Big Ten) visit the 3rd-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes (4-0, 1-0) Saturday in a Big Ten conference matchup at Ohio Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET (CBS/Paramount+). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s college football odds around the Iowa vs. Ohio State odds, and make our expert college football picks and predictions.

The Hawkeyes went to Minnesota and picked up a 31-14 win as 3-point favorites Sept. 21, and they took home the Floyd of Rosedale Trophy for winning against their rivals. They had a bye last Saturday.

Iowa has scored 31 or more points in 3 of 4 games to date, while going 2-2 against the spread (ATS). The Over is 4-0 in 4 games for Iowa, a team which hit the Under in 10 of 12 regular-season games, as well as the Big Ten Championship Game and the Citrus Bowl.

Ohio State earned a 38-7 win at Michigan State in the conference opener Sept. 28 in East Lansing, covering as a 23.5-point favorite. The Under (48.5) cashed, halting a 3-0 run to the Over in the 1st 3 outings.

Buckeyes QB Will Howard has completed 68.6% of his pass attempts for 1,039 yards, 8 TDs and 2 INTs, while true freshman WR Jeremiah Smith leads the team with 19 grabs, 364 yards and 5 TDs. On the ground, portal add RB Quinshon Judkins leads the way with 390 yards, 8.3 yards per attempt and 5 TDs, while RB TreVeyon Henderson has 273 rushing yards, 8.8 yards per attempt and 4 TDs.

These teams have met 6 times since Sept. 30, 2006, with the Buckeyes winning 5 of the meetings. That includes a 54-10 win Oct. 22, 2022, in the most recent meeting in Columbus, cashing as 29.5-point favorites as the Over (50) cashed. The total has gone high in 3 straight meetings and 5 of the past 6 in the series.

– Rankings: US LBM Coaches Poll, conducted by the American Football Coaches Association and USA TODAY Sports

Stream select live college football games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Iowa at Ohio State odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of college football odds. Lines last updated at 5:40 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Iowa +800 (bet $100 to win $800) | Ohio State -1400 (bet $1,400 to win $100)
Against the spread: Iowa +18.5 (-110) | Ohio State -18.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 45.5 (O: -120 | U: -110)

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Iowa at Ohio State picks and predictions

Prediction

Ohio State 34, Iowa 17

Moneyline

Ohio State (-1400) will set you back 14 times your potential return, and that’s way too much risk for not nearly enough reward. You also can’t play the Buckeyes as part of a multi-team parlay. Including them sucks all of the value out of your ticket.

PASS.

Against the spread

IOWA +18.5 (-110) is worth a look as a heavy underdog on the road.

Ohio State -18.5 (-110) has managed just a 1-2 ATS mark in 3 home games so far this season, while the Hawkeyes have managed to win and cover their only game on the road.

Look for the Buckeyes to win this game, and for things not to be terribly close. But, Iowa should be able to keep it within 19.

Over/Under

OVER 45.5 (-120) is a strong play in this conference tilt.

Iowa was an Under machine in recent seasons, especially in 2023 when it hit low in 12 of 14 games, including the postseason.

However, that’s last year, and these Hawkeyes are a little more exciting. The Over has cashed in all 4 games this season, going for 31 or more points in 3 outings. The Hawkeyes had a shutout in the opener against FCS Illinois State, but the defense has allowed 18.3 PPG in 3 games against FBS foes.

For Ohio State, it has scored 49 or more points in all 3 home games, albeit against inferior opponents. This won’t be an offensive shootout, but it should inch across the finish line for an Over.

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Iowa at Minnesota odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Iowa at Minnesota odds and lines, with college football expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Iowa Hawkeyes (2-1) and Minnesota Golden Gophers (2-1) meet at Huntington Bank Stadium Friday. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET (NBC). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s college football odds around the Iowa vs. Minnesota odds, and make our expert college football picks and predictions.

Minnesota’s always been a run-first team, but this season it is showing a bit more balance. The Gophers are 2-1, with their only loss coming in the opener against North Carolina. Since then, their defense has really stepped up, pitching a shutout in their last game against Nevada. They cruised to a 27-0 win, covering the 14.5-point spread, although the game stayed under the 44.5 total. The defense is becoming a real strength for Minnesota as the season moves forward.

Iowa is 2-1 after a tough loss to Iowa State but bounced back with a 38-20 win over Troy. While the defense wasn’t at its best, the offense shined. RB Kaleb Johnson ran for 173 yards and 2 touchdowns on 25 carries, and QB Cade McNamara was efficient, completing 19 of 23 passes for 176 yards. It didn’t cover the 24-point spread, but the game easily went over the 39-point total.

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Iowa at Minnesota odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of college football odds. Lines last updated at 11:45 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Iowa -145 (bet $145 to win $100) | Minnesota +120 (bet $100 to win $120)
Against the spread (ATS): Iowa -2.5 (-115) | Minnesota +2.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 35 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Iowa at Minnesota picks and predictions

Prediction

Minnesota 21, Iowa 14

Moneyline

BET MINNESOTA (+120).

The Gophers have shown they can compete, especially with RB Darius Taylor leading the charge on offense. His ability to break through defenses, even ones as strong as Iowa’s, makes Minnesota a solid pick. QB Max Brosmer has been steady, and its defense has been opportunistic, consistently forcing turnovers when it matters most. Expect Minnesota to come out fast and maintain control throughout the game.

Against the spread

PASS.

I’m not going to play around with the spread because I’ve got the underdog Gophers winning outright.

Over/Under

AVOID.

Honestly, I’d stay away from betting the total. Both teams have solid defenses, so the under looks tempting, but Iowa’s offense is just too unpredictable. It has been decent, but really struggled against Iowa State. You never know which version of it is going to show up. Rather than stressing over the total, I’d stick to the ML and avoid the uncertainty. It’s just not worth the risk here.

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Iowa State at Iowa odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Iowa State at Iowa odds and lines, with college football expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The No. 21 Iowa Hawkeyes (1-0) welcome the Iowa State Cyclones (1-0) to Kinnick Stadium Saturday for the high-profile in-state rivalry game. Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m. ET (CBS). Below, we analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Iowa State vs. Iowa odds, and make our expert college football picks and predictions.

Iowa is coming off a 40-0 throttling of the Illinois State Redbirds in Week 1, covering as a 21-point favorite. It is led by former Michigan QB Cade McNamara, who threw for 251 yards and 3 TDs. The Iowa defense held Illinois State to just 56 rushing yards.

Iowa State beat the North Dakota Fighting Hawks 21-3 Saturday in Week 1, failing to cover as a 30-point favorite. The Cyclones didn’t score double figures in any single quarter and were held scoreless in the 3rd quarter. QB Rocco Becht passed for 267 yards and 2 TDs.

Iowa is No. 21 in the US LBM Coaches Poll, conducted by the American Football Coaches Association and USA TODAY Sports

Stream select live college football games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Iowa State at Iowa odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 4:13 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Iowa State +126 (bet $100 to win $126) | Iowa -152 (bet $152 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Iowa State +2.5 (+102) | Iowa -2.5 (-124)
Over/Under (O/U): 35.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

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Iowa State at Iowa picks and predictions

Prediction

Iowa 20, Iowa State 10

Moneyline

PASS.

The moneyline value is playable, really for both sides. However, Iowa has consistently come out on top at home and has the better skill players here. Expect it to win and play the spread instead of the moneyline.

Against the spread

BET IOWA -2.5 (-124).

The Iowa offense should prove to be too much Saturday. In its season-opening victory, the Hawkeyes ended with 241 yards on the ground on 40 carries and 251 passing yards. That’s a strong ability to both run and pass. Iowa has won 2 of its last 3 games as the home team in the rivalry as well and has covered this size of a spread in both wins.

Iowa State didn’t cover Saturday and had sub-90 yards rushing. It will be more of a 1-dimensional side and could struggle against a capable defense like Iowa’s. With that in mind, take IOWA -2.5 (-124).

Over/Under

BET UNDER 35.5 (-108).

In the last 5 meetings between these 2, a team has gone north of 20 points just once. In 4 of those 5 meetings, this total would’ve resulted in the Under being the better side, and in 2 of those 5 meetings, there was a team that ended in single digits.

While playing weaker opponents, both sides combined to allow 3 points in Week 1. Expect history to repeat itself and take UNDER 35.5 (-108).

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Illinois State at Iowa odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Illinois State at Iowa odds and lines, with college football expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Illinois State Redbirds and Iowa Hawkeyes open their 2024 NCAA football seasons Saturday at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Kickoff is scheduled for noon ET (Big Ten Network). Below, we analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Illinois State vs. Iowa odds, and make our expert college football picks and predictions.

Illinois State enters the 2024 campaign ranked No. 19 in the STATS Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) football rankings and No. 20 in the AFCA FCS Coaches Poll. The Redbirds went 6-5 straight up (SU) last season while going 4-4 in the ultra-competitive Missouri Valley Conference.

Iowa will once again have a nasty defense, as it has 8 returning starters from a unit which allowed just 282.5 total yards per game, 170.7 passing yards per game and 14.8 points per game.

For the Hawkeyes to be successful, though, they need to be a functional offense. Ex-Western Michigan coach Tim Lester is entrusted as turning things around as the new offensive coordinator. Iowa managed 15.4 PPG in 2023, so things can’t get much worse. QB Cade McNamara is back healthy and ready to lead the offense.

These teams last met Sept. 5, 2015, with the Hawkeyes coming away with a 31-14 victory in Iowa City, covering as 10.5-point favorites as the Under (59.5) easily connected.

Iowa is No. 25 in the US LBM Coaches Poll — conducted by the American Football Coaches Association and USA TODAY Sports.

Stream select live college football games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Illinois State at Iowa odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 12:19 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Illinois State +1400 (bet $100 to win $1,400) | Iowa -4000 (bet $4,000 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Illinois State +22.5 (-110) | Iowa -22.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 40.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Illinois State at Iowa picks and predictions

Prediction

Iowa 26, Illinois State 13

Moneyline

Iowa (-4000) can’t be trusted until we get a little more information. Yes, that defense is amazing, and it will win the Hawkeyes games on its own. But Illinois State (+1400) is no slouch, and we need to see that the Iowa offense is improved to deem this a potential slam-dunk victory.

Plus, you wouldn’t want to play a favorite this large anyway. Risking 40 times your potential return is amateur hour in betting circles, even as part of a giant multi-leg parlay. There is just no value, and too much risk.

AVOID.

Against the spread

Play ILLINOIS STATE +22.5 (-110) is a good FCS team, and one which will contend for a playoff spot in the subdivision. The Redbirds will rely heavily upon the legs of RB Mason King, and former Kansas State QB Jake Rubley transfers in to give I-State a bump. Rubley should have immediate chemistry out of the gates with WR Xavier Loyd, also a portal add from K-State.

Iowa -22.5 (-110) went 1-1-1 ATS as a double-digit favorite in 2023, and it managed to score 22 or fewer points in 11 of the final 13 games last season, so covering a spread of this magnitude is a bit of a tall order without vast improvement on the offensive side of the ball.

Over/Under

The UNDER 40.5 (-110) and Iowa was a recipe for a lot of bread last season. In 14 games, the Under cashed 12 times.

The Hawkeyes defense will be stout again, especially at Kinnick. Iowa allowed just 79 points in 7 home games in 2023, or 11.3 PPG.

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Women’s NCAA Championship Game: Iowa vs. South Carolina odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Iowa vs. South Carolina odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Iowa Hawkeyes (34-4) and South Carolina Gamecocks (37-0) meet Sunday in the National Championship Game of the Women’s NCAA Tournament. Tip-off from Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland is slated for 3 p.m. ET (ABC/ESPN). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Iowa vs. South Carolina odds, and make our expert college basketball picks, predictions and best bets.

It will be a rematch of a 2023 semifinal as a pair of No. 1 seeds clash in Cleveland.

Iowa advanced after a 71-69 win against No. 3 seed UConn Friday. Things got off to a slow start, but the Hawkeyes came on late. However, there was a controversial offensive foul on the Huskies with 3.9 seconds left with them trailing 70-69. Iowa got the ball back and it hung on for the win, although a late G Caitlin Clark missed free throw helped UConn grab the cover as a 2.5-point underdog.

The Hawkeyes shot just 45.8% (27-of-59) from the field, and just 28.0% (7-of-25) from behind the 3-point line, while turning it over 16 times. Iowa finished with a 37-to-29 rebounding margin as G Sydney Affolter, Clark and G Kate Martin combined for 24 of those boards. Meanwhile, it was F Hannah Stuelke who led the team with 23 points as Clark scored 21 points while struggling from behind the 3-point line (3-for-11).

Iowa has managed a 2-3 against the spread (ATS) mark in its 5 NCAA Tournament games, while the Under holds a slight 3-2 edge.

South Carolina rolled to a 78-59 semifinal win over 11th-seeded NC State Friday. The Gamecocks actually led just 32-31 at halftime, but the Gamecocks used a 29-6 run in the 3rd quarter to pull away for the win and cover as 11.5-point favorites, while the Under (139.5) hung on.

The Gamecocks were led by C Kamilla Cardoso, who went for a game-high 22 points with 11 rebounds and 2 blocked shots, while shooting an efficient 10-of-12 from the field. G Raven Johnson chipped in with 13 points, while G Te-Hina Paopao ended up with 10 points and a team-best 6 assists.

Like Iowa, South Carolina is 2-3 ATS in the Tournament, while the Under is 4-1 in the 5 outings.

South Carolina is No. 1 and Iowa is No. 2 in the USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll.

Iowa vs. South Carolina odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook’s; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Saturday at 6:08 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Iowa +220 (bet $100 to win $220) | South Carolina -275 (bet $275 to win $100)
Against the spread: Iowa +6.5 (-110) | South Carolina -6.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 159.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Iowa vs. South Carolina and predictions

Prediction

South Carolina 81, Iowa 76

Moneyline

South Carolina (-275) will cost 2.75 times your potential return, and that’s way too much risk for not enough reward.

The unbeaten Gamecocks should get the job done in this revenge game after being bounced by the Hawkeyes last season in the Final Four, but I’m not willing and can’t suggest backing a -275 favorite in any sport.

However, expect Iowa (+220) to put up a good fight. This should be an epic cap for one of the most memorable seasons in women’s basketball history.

AVOID a moneyline play unless you’re willing to take a chance with Clark and the Hawkeyes.

Against the spread

IOWA +6.5 (-110) is worth backing, catching more than 3 buckets. Clark and Co. will be a tremendous test for unbeaten South Carolina.

Iowa stunned South Carolina last season 77-73 in the Final Four in Dallas, snapping a 42-game win streak for the Gamecocks. Clark scored 41 points to set a Final Four record, and you can bet she’ll be front and center for the Hawkeyes Sunday, especially after an ugly shooting performance in the semifinal against UConn.

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Over/Under

UNDER 159.5 (-110) is the lean in this title game.

The Under has cashed in 4 of 5 NCAA Tournament games for South Carolina, while cashing in 3 of 5 outings for Iowa. The total almost went low in the UConn game, too, but a late free throw by Clark flipped the total in favor of the Over by a half-point.

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Women’s NCAA Tournament: UConn vs. Iowa odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s UConn vs. Iowa odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The UConn Huskies (33-5) and Iowa Hawkeyes (33-4) meet Friday at the Final Four in the Women’s NCAA Tournament. Tip-off from Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland is slated for approximately 9 p.m. ET (ESPN). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the UConn vs. Iowa odds, and make our expert college basketball picks, predictions and best bets.

The 3rd-seeded Huskies will face the No. 1 seed Hawkeyes with a spot in the national championship hanging in the balance.

UConn beat 14th-seeded Jackson State 86-64 in the 1st round but came nowhere near covering as a 35.5-point favorites with the Over (135.5) connecting. Star G Paige Bueckers went for 28 points, 11 rebounds and 7 assists. In the 2nd round, UConn eased by No. 6 seed Syracuse 72-64, but the Orange easily covered as 19.5-point underdogs and the Under (144.5) cashed.

In the Sweet 16, UConn grinded out a low-scoring 53-45 win vs. No. 7 seed Duke, but again, the Huskies failed to cover. This time as 8.5-point favorites, and the Under (126.5) was never in doubt.

The Huskies followed by topping top-seeded USC and freshman phenom F Juju Watkins 80-73 in the Elite 8. UConn covered as a 3.5-point favorite and the Over (135.5) comfortably cashed. Bueckers went for 28 points and 10 boards in that victory. She is averaging 28.0 PPG, 9.0 RPG and 5.0 APG with 3.3 SPG and 1.5 BPG in 4 NCAA Tournament outings.

As for Iowa, the Hawkeyes topped 16th-seeded Holy Cross in the opening round 91-65, but they just missed cashing as 38.5-point favorites and the Under (157.5) came through.

In G Caitlin Clark‘s final home game in Iowa City, No. 8 seed West Virginia gave the scoring champ and the Hawkeyes all they could handle. In a contest that was tied with 2:15 to go, Iowa pulled away for a 64-54 victory and didn’t cover as 14.5-point favorites with the Under (163.5) hitting.

After moving on to Albany for the Sweet 16 and Elite 8, Iowa put together a complete game against 5th-seeded Colorado, rolling to an 89-68 win as a 7.5-point favorite as the Under (157.5) won by a hook.

In the highly anticipated 2023 national title rematch, Iowa eliminated 3rd-seeded LSU with a 94-87 thriller in the Elite 8. Clark dropped 41 points with 12 assists, 7 rebounds, 2 steals and a blocked shot in 40 minutes, while knocking down 9 3-pointers as Iowa covered as a slight 1.5-point favorite. The Over (168.5) was never in question.

UConn vs. Iowa odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook’s; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 2:45 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): UConn +125 (bet $100 to win $125) | Iowa -155 (bet $155 to win $100)
Against the spread: UConn +2.5 (-105) | Iowa -2.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 162.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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UConn vs. Iowa and predictions

Prediction

Iowa 78, UConn 74

Moneyline

Iowa (-155) is a solid play as a moderate moneyline favorite, if you just want to choose a winner without fiddling around the points.

Clark and the Hawkeyes are on a collision course with unbeaten South Carolina, and the TV ratings will likely be through the roof. Clark and the Hawkeyes will do their part to give the people what they want.

In this case, I’m willing to lay the points with the spread below and AVOID a moneyline wager.

Against the spread

IOWA -2.5 (-115) is a good play laying the small amount of points. Clark won’t be able to do it all herself, and she’ll need G Kate Martin, G Sydney Affolter or someone else to step up and give the Hawkeyes solid secondary or tertiary scoring.

UConn has made a tremendous run to the Final Four, and this is a team with a bright future, as usual. But the time is now for Clark and the Hawkeyes, and they should get it done together.

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Over/Under

UNDER 162.5 (-110) might be the best play on the board.

The Over-Under has split in 4 NCAA Tournament games for UConn, while the Under is 3-1 for Iowa in this tourney.

The Hawkeyes went off in the first quarter against LSU, and Clark was unconscious from behind the 3-point line all night. You can expect UConn will apply a lot more pressure along the perimeter, trying to make life more difficult for Clark and company than LSU did behind the arc.

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

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