Iowa vs Arkansas State Preview

Some would consider this a let down game possibility for Iowa, but I think that they got their non-conference scare opening weekend against UNI. The weather looks to be a factor in this game as it will be cold and rainy. This will be tough for Arkansas State as they are probably used to warmer weather down south and probably rarely have to play in the rain. Iowa has practiced in this and played in a rain game last week.

When Iowa has the ball- Iowa will be back to full strength along its offensive line with Bryan Bulaga returning to man the left tackle spot. Look for Iowa to come out early and impose their will on the Arkansas State defense. However, Arkansas State does rank in at 25th nationally against the run only allowing 100 yards per game. They held Nebraska to 136 yards in week two at Lincoln. On the other hand, look for Rick Stanzi to get on track against the nation's 102nd ranked pass defense that is allowing 256 yards per game. In that same Nebraska game, they gave up 358, so they are very susceptible to the pass. Don't be surprised if Iowa comes out guns a blazing and tries to take advantage of the weak Red Wolves secondary.
Match up to watch: Alex Carrington, DE vs Calloway and Bulaga Carrington was named the Sun Belt's pre-season defensive player of the year, but he will be going up against the strength of Iowa's offensive line in Calloway and Bulaga.

When Arkansas State has the ball- Look for Iowa to remain in base defense all game long. Arkansas State will have an offense much like that of ISU, only they throw the ball even less. They are in the spread, but their first option is to run the ball. On the season the are 37th nationally averaging 190 yards per game on the ground. Their main running back is Reggie Arnold, who averages over 6 yards per carry. When they are in the red zone, they will run the ball, having 11 rushing touchdowns and only 2 passing. Look for Iowa to counter this with their base defense and possibly leaving the corners in man coverage with the possibility of loading the box with a safety. The Red Wolves quarterback will run, but he is more likely to hand the ball off.
Match up to watch: Reggie Arnold vs Hunter and Edds If Arnold is allowed to get the corner it could spell trouble for the Hawks. If they can contain him and force the Red Wolves into passing, it becomes a huge advantage for the Hawks.

Score prediction:
Iowa- 42
Ark. St.- 10

Predictions:
Iowa forces 4+ turnovers (3 Int's, 1 fumble)
Wegher and Robinson are 100+ rushers
Stanzi throws for less than 200 yards
Iowa has 0 sacks