In what is expected to be a closely contested final regular season game for Iowa football, the Hawkeyes are gearing up for a Black Friday face-off against the Nebraska Cornhuskers. As Hawkeye fans anticipate a thrilling game, the odds have taken an interesting turn leading up to the showdown.

DraftKings Sportsbook initially favored the Hawkeyes by 1.5 points, but as the week progressed, the line gradually shifted in favor of the Cornhuskers. As of this morning, the odds have flipped, with Nebraska now favored by 2.5 points. It is worth noting that this is only the third time Iowa has been considered an underdog this season, with the team holding a record of 1-1 in prior matchups against Penn State and Wisconsin.

While the point spread has shifted towards Nebraska, the over/under has steadily decreased. Starting at 27.5 total points, the over/under has dropped to a record-low of just 26 points as of this morning. This suggests that both teams are expected to engage in a tightly contested defensive battle.

Nevertheless, optimistic Hawkeye fans at The Pants remain confident in Iowa's ability to come away with a victory. Their average score prediction favors the Hawks with a 17-11 win, exceeding the projected point total and defying the odds.

The upcoming game holds significant implications for both teams. Iowa, having already clinched the West division title, may run the risk of coming out flat on a short week. On the other hand, Nebraska, desperate for a bowl opportunity after nearly a decade, provides a formidable challenge for the Hawkeyes.

Throughout the season, Iowa has showcased their ability to overcome mistakes despite a lack of turnovers created, thanks to their suffocating defense. However, in this revenge match that holds importance for the seniors, it is predicted that the Hawkeye defense will shift the turnover trend by creating 2+ turnovers, including a potential game-sealing play in the final minutes.

Individual predictions from Hawkeye observers reveal a mix of expectations. One observer who witnessed Iowa's performance against Illinois noted that Iowa's margin for error is extremely narrow, but believes that the team will do everything in their power to secure the win. Another prediction highlights Iowa's defensive prowess and Nebraska's struggles on offense, giving the Hawkeyes the edge to finish the season with 10 wins.

Despite differing viewpoints, one sentiment remains constant among Hawkeye fans: the determination to not let a loss against Nebraska become a recurring pattern. The desire to keep the Cornhuskers out of a bowl game and preserve Hawkeye pride is a driving force for the team.

While uncertainties linger, including the possibility of a post-division winning hangover and the challenge of facing a spirited Nebraska team, head coach Kirk Ferentz and the Hawks remain focused on securing the victory. With pride and their coach's desire for redemption fueling their efforts, fans hope to see the Hawkeyes emerge triumphant in the highly anticipated Black Friday clash.

As Hawkeye supporters eagerly await the outcome of this grueling contest, one thing is certain – the battle between these Big Ten rivals is bound to be intense, closely fought, and a testament to the competitive spirit of college football.

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