Iowa Hawkeyes Drop Out of Top 25 After Ohio State Loss: Week 6 College Football Rankings
The Iowa Hawkeyes fell out of the top 25 in the latest college football rankings after a disappointing 31-14 loss to Ohio State, raising questions about the team's ability to compete with the nation's elite programs. The Buckeyes dominated the Hawkeyes on both sides of the ball, holding Iowa to just 199 total yards and 1.9 yards per carry.
What happened to Iowa against Ohio State?
Iowa entered the game ranked 14th in the nation with a 4-0 record, but the Hawkeyes struggled to generate any offensive momentum against a physical Ohio State defense. The Buckeyes forced two turnovers and controlled the game after building an early lead in the first quarter.
The loss drops Iowa to 4-1 on the season and 1-1 in Big Ten play. Despite the setback, the Hawkeyes remain in contention for a strong season, but they will need to bounce back quickly with a challenging road game at Washington on Friday night.
It may be unfair to take Iowa out of the Top 25 following a loss to Ohio State, but the Hawkeyes didn't show much fight and were unable to run. I give UCLA and Minnesota the slight edge right now in the rankings and think Iowa is on upset alert at Washington.
Who replaced Iowa in the rankings?
The Minnesota Golden Gophers entered the top 25 this week after back-to-back wins over Washington and Michigan. Minnesota's 20-14 victory over the Wolverines capped an impressive two-game stretch that caught the attention of voters and analysts alike.
Iowa and Minnesota are scheduled to meet on October 24 in Minneapolis, a game that could have significant implications for the Big Ten West division race. With both teams trending in opposite directions, the matchup has become one of the most anticipated games on the Hawkeyes' schedule.
Ohio State's Jeremiah Smith continues to dominate
Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith was the difference-maker against Iowa, catching 11 passes for 206 yards and two touchdowns. Smith now leads the nation in receptions (44), receiving yards (823), and touchdowns (9), establishing himself as a front-runner for the Heisman Trophy.
Buckeyes quarterback Julian Sayin also had a strong performance, throwing for 324 yards and three touchdowns. Ohio State improved to 4-1 overall and 2-0 in Big Ten play with the victory.
Top 25 highlights: Alabama, Missouri make statements
Several other teams made significant moves in this week's rankings. Alabama climbed to No. 6 after a dominant 56-23 win over Mississippi State, with quarterback Keelon Russell continuing his Heisman campaign. The Crimson Tide have scored 45 or more points in every game this season.
Missouri was the biggest winner of the week, jumping 10 spots to No. 15 after a 45-17 rout of Florida. The Tigers' offense totaled 560 yards with no turnovers, and running back Jamal Roberts ran for a career-high 211 yards and three touchdowns.
What's next for the Hawkeyes?
Iowa faces a critical test this Friday night at Washington, a program that has shown improvement this season. The Hawkeyes haven't played in Seattle since 1963, adding an extra layer of challenge to the road trip.
Head coach Kirk Ferentz will need to address the offensive struggles that plagued the team against Ohio State. Establishing a consistent running game will be essential for Iowa to regain its footing and stay competitive in the Big Ten race.
The Hawkeyes still have opportunities to make a statement this season, with games against Minnesota, UCLA, and Indiana remaining on the schedule. A strong finish could put Iowa back in the conversation for a New Year's Six bowl game.
Full Week 6 Top 25 rankings
- Texas Longhorns (4-0)
- Georgia Bulldogs (5-0)
- Miami Hurricanes (5-0)
- Ohio State Buckeyes (4-1)
- Indiana Hoosiers (5-0)
- Alabama Crimson Tide (5-0)
- Notre Dame Fighting Irish (5-0)
- Texas Tech Red Raiders (5-0)
- BYU Cougars (4-0)
- Utah Utes (4-0)
- Ole Miss Rebels (3-1)
- LSU Tigers (4-1)
- Oklahoma State Cowboys (3-1)
- Oregon Ducks (3-1)
- Missouri Tigers (4-1)
- Florida Gators (4-1)
- Boise State Broncos (4-1)
- Kentucky Wildcats (4-1)
- Mississippi State Bulldogs (4-1)
- USC Trojans (5-1)
- Tennessee Vols (4-1)
- Houston Cougars (4-1)
- Wake Forest Demon Deacons (4-1)
- UCLA Bruins (4-0)
- Minnesota Golden Gophers (4-1)
Iowa fans should watch these upcoming games
With Iowa dropping out of the top 25, Hawkeye fans will be watching closely to see how the team responds. The Friday night game at Washington will be a key indicator of whether Iowa can regroup and make a push in the second half of the season.
The Big Ten race remains wide open, with Ohio State and Indiana leading the way in the East division while Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin battle for position in the West. Every game matters from here on out for the Hawkeyes.