Hawkeyes Mic: Hawkeyes-Cardinal Predictions (12/27/15)
The Hawkeyes Mic picks are in for the Iowa-Stanford 2016 Rose Bowl Game. And for the fourth time this season, it is not unanimous as Scott is the outlier. Check them out — see if you agree or disagree.
Scott Dochterman — Stanford 31–27: While the teams play a similar brand of football, their leagues do not. There are many layers to this game but it comes down to Iowa stopping Christian McCaffrey. That task might be just a little too tall. (The Gazette; @ScottDochterman on Twitter)
Steve Batterson — Iowa 24–21: I’ve gone back and forth on this one. The match-up has the look of the Big Ten Championship Game, with two power-based teams going at it in what should be one of the better bowl games of the season. The Pac-12 champs have plenty of skill to go with Christian McCaffrey on offense, and Iowa’s ability to limit it all on defense will again be critical. The Hawkeyes need a little more consistency out of their offense than they received against Michigan State. Ball control will be important and if Iowa can make that happen, this senior class will have a chance to add one more item to a significant list of accomplishments. (The Quad City Times; @SBatt79 on Twitter)
Tyler Tjelmeland — Iowa 31–13: Look, I’ve picked against Iowa at every turn this year, but this is a special season and with it being the first Rose Bowl appearance since 1990, I have to pick the Hawkeyes. Stanford has been there, done that. Emotions and drive are what win bowl games. Iowa has the drive, even with the letdown of not participating in the NCAA Football Playoff, because they were vindicated after the close loss to Michigan State. I rarely pick big wins, and I rarely pick big wins for underdogs in bowl games, but I love Iowa in this match up on New Years Day. (Hawkeyes Mic; @TylerTJ on Twitter)
John Patchett — Iowa 31–27: This is a tough game to pick. And it shapes up to be one of the best bowl games of the season. Offensively, especially with McCaffrey, Stanford has the advantage, but Iowa can score and has proved it all season. Defensively, both teams are good, but I give a slight edge to the Hawkeyes. These two teams are going to put up points in this game, and it will be physical, tough, and fun to watch. There’s just something about this Iowa Team — and it’s that intangible that allows Iowa to bring home the roses. (Hawkeyes Mic; @HawkeyesMic on Twitter)
Guest Pick: Bob Brooks — Iowa 28–21: It’s an historical time for Kirk Ferentz and the Iowa Hawkeyes.
