In a crucial matchup that could determine the fate of the Big Ten West division, the Iowa Hawkeyes are preparing to take on the Illinois Fighting Illini this Saturday. However, the Hawkeyes will be without their star player Cooper DeJean due to an injury suffered in practice. This unfortunate loss has raised questions about Iowa's chances of winning the division title.

Saturday's game holds significant importance for the Hawkeyes on multiple fronts. It will be senior day, marking the final time that Iowa fans will see key players in action at Kinnick Stadium. A victory in this game would secure the coveted Big Ten West division title for the Hawkeyes. On the other hand, a loss could create a must-win situation in the upcoming matchup against Nebraska and open the door for Illinois to claim the division themselves.

Despite the absence of Cooper DeJean, the oddsmakers at DraftKings Sportsbook still favor the Hawkeyes, giving them a 3-point advantage. The over/under for the game has climbed to 32 total points, the highest total in the last four games for Iowa.

While there are concerns about Iowa's ability to generate points without DeJean, The Pants, a well-known publication, predicts a close victory for the Hawkeyes, forecasting a final score of Iowa 20, Illinois 12. However, the staff at The Pants acknowledges that this prediction hovers on the line for total points. Yet, with cautious optimism, they lean towards the under.

Individual predictions from the staff members show mixed opinions on the outcome of the game. One staff member anticipates a challenging contest, with a prediction of Illinois 27, Iowa 13. Another staff member expresses confidence in Iowa's resilience, noting that the team has found ways to win even when underestimated. Their prediction is Iowa 20, Illinois 10.

The loss of Cooper DeJean is undoubtedly a significant blow to the Hawkeyes. DeJean's athleticism and contributions in punt coverage and returns will be sorely missed. However, some staff members refuse to succumb to despair and believe that Iowa's defense can still hold their ground.

One staff member emphasizes the importance of Iowa's offense replicating its fourth-quarter performance from the Rutgers game. They contend that if the offense can produce consistently, it will keep the Illinois offense in check and mitigate the concerns surrounding a new starting corner.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the game, several factors may work in Iowa's favor. Illinois' decision to start Luke Altmyer at quarterback, a turnover-prone player, instead of backup John Paddock, could provide opportunities for the Hawkeyes. Iowa's defense aims to capitalize on Altmyer's mistakes and generate turnovers to secure a victory.

While missing Cooper DeJean creates a void, the Hawkeyes have proven their ability to overcome adversity. The team's determination and the support of their passionate fans at Kinnick Stadium could be the driving force behind their potential victory. With both teams vying for a spot in the Big Ten Championship game, Saturday's matchup is poised to be an exciting and highly contested contest.

As the game approaches, tensions rise among Hawkeye fans as they eagerly wait to see if their team can clinch the Big Ten West division title. Predictions and discussions are circulating among fans, with divided opinions on the outcome of this crucial matchup.

Only time will tell if the Hawkeyes can overcome the absence of Cooper DeJean and emerge victorious, securing their place in the Big Ten Championship. Iowa fans remain hopeful, as they watch and wait anxiously for the game to unfold, hoping for a memorable senior day celebration and the joy of an emotional Kirk Ferentz.