Iowa (6-3, 4-2 Big Ten) is set to face UCLA (3-5, 2-4) on Friday at 9 p.m. EST, with the matchup airing on Fox. The current betting line from BetMGM gives Iowa a 6-point advantage. In terms of historical performance, UCLA holds a 7-2 lead in their all-time series.
The stakes are significant in this matchup, as the Bruins have found new life in what appeared to be a disappointing season, emerging victorious in their last two games, including a 27-20 win over Nebraska on the road. DeShaun Foster, in his debut season as head coach, is aiming to secure his first home win in Big Ten competition after failing to claim victory in his first three attempts. Meanwhile, Iowa is on the hunt for its third consecutive win, which could contribute to the program’s pursuit of a potential fourth 10-win season since 2019.
A crucial aspect of the game will be Iowa’s pass defense facing UCLA quarterback Ethan Garbers. Over the past two games, the Hawkeyes’ defense has effectively limited opposing passing attacks, allowing only 257 yards and one touchdown while intercepting four passes against Northwestern and Wisconsin combined. On the other hand, UCLA’s short passing game proved effective against Nebraska last week, generating multiple significant plays, including a 48-yard touchdown pass from Garbers.
Several players will be key to this contest. Iowa’s Brendan Sullivan will be making his second start at quarterback after stepping in for Cade McNamara. Sullivan previously threw for 93 yards and a touchdown while adding 58 rushing yards and a score against Wisconsin, marking the highest rushing total by an Iowa quarterback since 2015. For UCLA, freshman wide receiver Kwazi Gilmer has shown potential with big plays, including his first career touchdown on a 48-yard reception against Nebraska. He leads the Bruins’ wide receivers with 213 receiving yards and has recorded four catches of more than 25 yards.
This matchup marks the first time these teams have faced off since the 1986 Rose Bowl, in which UCLA triumphed 45-28. Iowa has impressed this season, scoring at least 40 points in four games, the most they’ve achieved since 2017. Their defense has been dominant in the third quarter, outscoring opponents 42-0 in their last two outings. Additionally, Iowa’s 329 rushing yards against Wisconsin were the most against a Big Ten foe since 2016. Garbers has been a dual threat for UCLA, holding the record for the team’s two longest rushes of the season. Meanwhile, UCLA’s run defense has been formidable, allowing just 100.4 rushing yards per game.