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Elite defenses and star running backs collide in Ohio State vs. Iowa. Several top 2025 NFL Draft prospects will compete in this matchup.
Iowa (3-1) enters this matchup following a commanding 31-14 victory over Minnesota, boasting the 10th-ranked rushing offense in the nation, averaging 250.3 yards per game. Led by running back Kaleb Johnson, who ranks second in the country with 685 rushing yards and 8.4 yards per carry, Iowa relies heavily on its ground game to control the clock and minimize mistakes. Their defense, anchored by standout linebacker Jay Higgins, is fourth in the nation, allowing only 62 rushing yards per game. Iowa will need strong performances on both sides of the ball to challenge Ohio State.
Ohio State vs. Iowa
Date: Saturday, Oct. 5
Start time: 3:30 p.m. ET
Location: Ohio Stadium, Columbus, Ohio
Ohio State (4-0) counters with a formidable defense of its own, ranking third in the nation in rush defense, giving up just 61.8 yards per game and 1.8 yards per carry. The Buckeyes’ offense, led by quarterback Will Howard and dynamic running backs TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins, averages 6.6 yards per carry. Ohio State will look to take advantage of Iowa's 69th-ranked pass defense by utilizing their explosive wide receivers, including Emeka Egbuka and freshman phenom Jeremiah Smith.
Offense vs. Defense Key Matchups:
Ohio State Offense vs. Iowa Defense
Ohio State’s Will Howard & TreVeyon Henderson vs. Iowa's Jay Higgins & Yahya Black
Ohio State’s run game will face a challenge against Iowa’s front seven, anchored by linebacker Jay Higgins, who leads the Hawkeyes with 34 tackles this season. Iowa’s defensive line, led by Yahya Black and Aaron Graves, will be key to slowing Henderson, who has been averaging 6.4 yards per carry.
Jeremiah Smith & Emeka Egbuka vs. Iowa Secondary (Sebastian Castro & Xavier Nwankpa)
Ohio State's passing attack, which averages 270 yards per game, will look to exploit Iowa’s 69th-ranked pass defense. Smith and Egbuka, with a combined 9 touchdowns, are the key threats. Castro and Nwankpa will need to step up to keep the Buckeyes' receivers in check.
Iowa Offense vs. Ohio State Defense
Kaleb Johnson vs. Ohio State Defensive Line (Tyleik Williams, JT Tuimoloau, Jack Sawyer)
Johnson’s physical, downhill running style will test Ohio State’s defensive line, particularly with the return of Tyleik Williams. The Buckeyes, giving up just 61.8 rushing yards per game, will need their defensive front to contain Johnson, who is a Heisman candidate.
Cade McNamara vs. Ohio State Secondary (Denzel Burke, Davison Igbinosun)
McNamara has struggled to push the ball downfield, with only 588 passing yards and three touchdowns through four games. Ohio State’s secondary, led by cornerback Denzel Burke, ranks third nationally in passing yards allowed, holding opponents to just 155 yards per game. McNamara will need to avoid costly turnovers to keep Iowa competitive.
2025 NFL Draft Eligible Prospects to Watch:
1. TreVeyon Henderson, RB, Ohio State
Henderson’s combination of elite speed, vision, and burst makes him a home-run threat on every play. His agility and pass-catching ability add versatility to Ohio State's offense.
2. Quinshon Judkins, RB, Ohio State
Judkins is a powerful, between-the-tackles runner who thrives in tough, physical situations. His strength and balance allow him to consistently gain yards after contact.
3. Denzel Burke, CB, Ohio State
Burke's exceptional coverage skills, ball awareness, and instincts make him one of the top corners in the nation. He excels in man-to-man situations and reads the quarterback well.
4. Tyleik Williams, DT, Ohio State
Williams is a disruptive force on the interior defensive line, with the strength and quickness to shut down the run and collapse the pocket. His footwork and hand technique make him a tough matchup.
5. Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State
Egbuka’s elite speed, sharp route-running, and ability to create separation make him a dynamic receiving threat. His versatility allows him to be dangerous at multiple spots on the field.
6. J.T. Tuimoloau, DE, Ohio State
Tuimoloau blends speed, strength, and hand technique to be a dominant force on the edge. His athleticism and explosiveness make him effective in both pass-rushing and setting the edge against the run.
7. Jack Sawyer, DE, Ohio State
Sawyer is an instinctive edge rusher with a quick first step and relentless pursuit. His ability to shed blocks and get into the backfield makes him a constant threat to disrupt plays.
8. Sebastian Castro, DB, Iowa
Castro is a physical, hard-hitting safety with great instincts in run support. His tackling ability and versatility allow him to be a consistent enforcer near the line of scrimmage.
9. Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State
Simmons is a strong, technically sound offensive lineman with quick feet and great hand placement. His ability to protect the quarterback and create running lanes is key for Ohio State's success.
10. Luke Lachey, TE, Iowa
Lachey is a balanced tight end with excellent hands and solid blocking ability. His ability to contribute both as a receiver and in pass protection makes him a key offensive player for Iowa.
11. Jay Higgins, LB, Iowa
Higgins is a sideline-to-sideline linebacker with elite instincts and tackling prowess. His awareness in diagnosing plays and his ability to take on blockers make him a standout against the run.
12. Xavier Nwankpa, DB, Iowa
Nwankpa is a rangy safety with excellent playmaking ability and instincts in coverage. His ability to cover ground quickly and tackle well in space makes him a versatile defensive back.
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