### Iowa Prepares for the Challenge Ahead Against No. 3 Ohio State

IOWA CITY - Kirk Ferentz emphasizes that for Iowa's football team to have a successful season, it needs its star players to perform at their peak. This strategy will be particularly crucial during Saturday's high-stakes game against the unbeaten Ohio State Buckeyes.

Jay Higgins, a fifth-year senior middle linebacker, is one of those key players. Higgins is proving his worth by playing at an All-American level this season, with standout statistics including two interceptions and 34 tackles, which rank him third in the Big Ten Conference. This excellence is also reflected in EA Sports' recent update to its college football video game; Higgins was given the fifth-highest rating nationwide at 95.

Reflecting on the upcoming matchup, Higgins remains grounded yet ambitious. "We know what it means for the program," Higgins said. "And individually, it's good tape to have on your resume." For Higgins, this game is more than just a contest; it’s an opportunity to silence the doubters and showcase his abilities on a big stage, especially given early NFL Draft projections have him as a Day 3 pick in 2025.

Ohio State's potent offense will pose a formidable challenge to Iowa. The Buckeyes are averaging nearly 49 points per game and over 534 yards, underscored by a balanced attack that ranks 14th in both rushing and passing offense nationally. Their quarterback, Will Howard, has an impressive completion rate of 68.8%, and their running game, led by Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson, is equally formidable.

The Hawkeyes will heavily lean on their defensive front to disrupt Ohio State's rhythm. Defensive tackles Aaron Graves and Yahya Black, alongside ends Deontae Craig and Ethan Hurkett, are expected to pressurize Ohio State’s supposedly weaker interior line. Defensive coordinator Phil Parker will count on Higgins and Nick Jackson to anchor the defense, supported by the versatile Sebastian Castro.

Offensively, Iowa aims to leverage its strong rushing game, spearheaded by star running back Kaleb Johnson, to penetrate Ohio State’s robust defensive line. Coach George Barnett acknowledges the challenge, noting Ohio State's defensive front as "one of the best in college football." Iowa's strategy will focus on sustaining drives and possibly exploiting weaknesses at the linebacker position, where Ohio State has less experience.

History shows that upsets are possible; Iowa famously toppled Ohio State 55-24 as a 21-point underdog in 2017. For such a result to recur, Iowa must avoid turnovers and capitalize on any opportunities to gain possession. They have to play mistake-free football and execute flawlessly to have a chance against a team favored by a wide margin.

Cade McNamara, Iowa's quarterback, feels the underdog status could benefit them. "Sometimes it's awesome being the underdog. That's where a lot of guys feel a lot more comfortable," he remarked. The focus for Iowa will be on playing with freedom and without stress, capitalizing on their chances, and potentially creating some magic on the field.

For the Hawkeyes, a disciplined, gritty, and opportunistic approach could pave the way for an improbable but memorable victory in this high-stakes Big Ten battle.