Iowa Drops in Big Ten Power Rankings After Ohio State Loss, But Hawkeyes' Season Is Far From Over
The Iowa Hawkeyes took their first loss of the season Saturday, falling to a dominant Ohio State squad in Columbus. The 4-1 start is still strong, but the loss has dropped Iowa to No. 6 in this week's Big Ten power rankings, with a critical Friday night showdown at Washington looming large.
Iowa's defense kept things competitive early, but the Buckeyes' firepower, led by Heisman front-runner Jeremiah Smith, proved too much. The Hawkeyes now face a quick turnaround with a road trip to Seattle, a game that could define their season trajectory heading into a brutal second-half stretch.
What went wrong for Iowa against Ohio State?
Going into the game, the formula for an Iowa upset was clear: win the turnover battle, sustain long drives, and keep the score low. At halftime, trailing just 10-6, that script was still within reach. But Ohio State pulled away in the second half, and the Hawkeyes couldn't recover.
Iowa's defense held its own for stretches, but the Buckeyes' talent advantage was simply too much. The Hawkeyes will need to flush this loss quickly, as the schedule doesn't get any easier.
Friday night test at Washington is a must-win
The Hawkeyes now travel to Seattle for a Friday night clash with Washington. The Huskies are 3-2 but have lost two straight Big Ten games, including a heartbreaking defeat to USC. They'll be desperate to protect their home turf.
Iowa needs to empty the tank in this one. A 5-1 record heading into the second half would set the Hawkeyes up nicely for a run, but the schedule gets brutal after this week. Iowa's next three opponents after Washington are all playing well, and they'll all be looking to knock off the Hawkeyes starting in late October.
Where the rest of the Big Ten stands
Indiana remains the surprise story of the conference, riding a 21-game winning streak to the top spot. Ohio State sits at No. 2, with Oregon, Nebraska, and UCLA rounding out the top five.
Wisconsin, Northwestern, and Minnesota are all nipping at Iowa's heels, making every week crucial in the crowded middle of the conference. Michigan and Penn State are both struggling at 0-2 in conference play, while Maryland and Rutgers bring up the rear.
What's next for the Hawkeyes?
Iowa's path to a Big Ten title game appearance runs through a gauntlet of tough opponents. The Hawkeyes will need to win the games they're supposed to win and steal a few upsets along the way.
Friday night in Seattle is the first test. A win there would give Iowa momentum and breathing room. A loss would put the Hawkeyes in a precarious position with the toughest part of their schedule still ahead.
Full Big Ten Power Rankings after Week 5
- Indiana (5-0)
- Ohio State (4-1)
- Oregon (3-1)
- Nebraska (5-0)
- UCLA (4-0)
- Iowa (4-1)
- Wisconsin (4-1)
- Northwestern (3-1)
- Minnesota (4-1)
- USC (5-1)
- Washington (3-2)
- Michigan (3-2)
- Penn State (3-2)
- Purdue (2-3)
- Illinois (2-3)
- Michigan State (2-3)
- Rutgers (1-4)
- Maryland (2-3)
Frequently asked questions about Iowa football
When do the Iowa Hawkeyes play next?
Iowa plays at Washington on Friday, October 9. Kickoff is scheduled for 9:30 PM CT on Fox.
Who is Iowa's quarterback this season?
Iowa has used a rotation at quarterback this season, with both signal-callers contributing to the team's 4-1 start.
Can Iowa still win the Big Ten West?
Yes, Iowa remains in contention for the Big Ten title game. The Hawkeyes control their own destiny, but they'll need to win most of their remaining conference games, starting with Washington on Friday.