Minnesota at Iowa Preview

(by Travis Aune MSU Founder)

Today in Iowa City the Gophers and Hawkeyes renew their rivalry for The Floyd of Rosedale Trophy.   The trophy is currently held by Iowa after a 14-7 win in Minneapolis last year.  Minnesota and  Iowa have a long history going all the way back to 1891.  The Floyd of Rosedale became a thing in 1934 when the governor's of Minnesota and Iowa put a wager on the game.  The bet was a Pig the loser would have to give to the winner if I have my history correct.  Afterward, it was turned into a trophy, and that's what they play for every year.  Currently, the rivalry sits at 62-46-2 in favor of the Gophers, but the Hawkeyes have won seven of the last ten in the series.  This year the Hawkeyes are heavily favored in this game is the game is in Iowa City.  Both teams come into the play at 1-3 in the Big 10 and 4-3 overall.  With both sides out of Big 10 title contention this game is about tradition so it will be interesting.

Gophers at a Glance

The Gophers got their first Big Ten win last week 24-17 over Illinois in Minneapolis.  They are led by their three-headed monster at RB with Rodney Smith, Shannon Brooks, and Kobe Mccrary.  Injuries and poor quarterback play have been a hindrance for the Gophers.  Demry Croft gets the start again for the Gophers as he tries to improve on his 5-15 for 47 yards and an interception.  If they get a game like that they have no chance on Saturday night.  If he can play more as he did against Michigan State the week before the Gophers have a chance.

Iowa at a Glance

The Hawkeyes had high expectations with most of their offensive line returning and star running back Akrum Wadley leading the charge many thought Iowa would contend with Wisconsin for a division championship.  However, poor QB play by Nate Stanley and injuries on Defense have left the Hawkeyes in the middle of the pack.  Iowa is going to do what they do run the ball down the Gophers depleted throats.

Prediction

The Gophers and Hawkeyes are very similar to how they got to where they are.  The Gophers need to get two wins out of five to become bowl eligible and here is the schedule.
At Iowa
at Michigan
vs Nebraska
at Northwestern
vs Wisconsin
The Iowa game is winnable, and I think the Gophers are going to shock some people and head into Iowa City and bring the Floyd of Rosedale back where it belongs.

Minnesota 27  Iowa 24