For the first time in 2024, the Hawkeyes will be on the road as they travel to Minneapolis to take on the Minnesota Golden Gophers in the Big Ten Conference opener. Both teams enter the day 2-1 and are untested in the conference. Notably, both teams have lost their only matchups against power five opponents.

The Gophers were devastated by a last-second miscue in their home opener against North Carolina in a game that left them without their leading rusher, Darius Taylor. Taylor enters the day averaging 7.5 yards per carry but ranks second on the team in attempts as the Gophers attempt to drive the ball.

Despite that wish from P.J. Fleck and co., Minnesota is fully capable through the air after signing FCS All-American QB Max Brosmer, who is completing a very nice 69% of his passes this year. While the Gophers haven’t peppered the ball down the field this year, they do have several receivers capable of bringing the top of an Iowa defense that has struggled on the big play thus far in 2024.

Will that be the case again tonight with TJ Hall and Xavier Nwankpa struggling? Or will Phil Parker have his defense on point and suffocate like it has for years? And if he lets the D suffocate Minnesota, will the offense finally be able to win a game and avenge the loss of a year ago?

Our answers are coming as the Hawkeyes take on the Gophers in the battle for Floyd of Rosedale!

Here’s a quick reminder of the details of today’s match:

Date: Saturday September 21st
Time: 6:30pm CT
Match: Iowa Hawkeyes (2-1, 0-0) at Minnesota Gophers (2-1)
Location: Huntington Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, MN
TV: NBC
Updated weather forecast: clear skies with temperatures in the mid 70s, winds 5-10 mph
Updated DraftKings Line: Iowa -2.5, Over/Out 35

Odds/lines may change. Terms and conditions apply. See draftkings.com/sportsbook for more information.

The usual rules apply today. Be nice in the comments. No personal attacks, no politics, keep a slight eye on the language and please report any spambots that show their digital face.

Come on, Hawks!