Iowa Hawkeyes Look to Bounce Back Against Washington: Odds, Key Players, and Prediction
The No. 20 Iowa Hawkeyes are looking to shake off their first loss of the 2026 season when they travel to Seattle to face the Washington Huskies on Friday night. After a heartbreaking 14-point effort against Ohio State in Week 5, Iowa aims to prove it belongs among the nation's best.
Iowa enters the matchup with a 4-1 record, while Washington sits at 3-2 after dropping two straight Big Ten games. The Huskies opened the season with three wins over Washington State, Utah State, and Eastern Washington, but have struggled since conference play began.
Iowa vs. Washington Odds and Spread
Despite Iowa's ranking and Washington's recent struggles, the Huskies open as slight favorites at home. According to DraftKings Sportsbook, Washington is favored by 2.5 points.
- Spread: Iowa +2.5 (-105), Washington -2.5 (-115)
- Moneyline: Iowa +124, Washington -148
- Total: 41.5 (Over -105, Under -115)
Odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.
How to Watch Iowa vs. Washington
- Date: Friday, Oct. 9
- Time: 9:00 p.m. EST
- Venue: Husky Stadium, Seattle
- TV: FOX or FS1
Key Player to Watch: Hank Brown
Iowa quarterback Hank Brown is the player to keep an eye on Friday night. Brown suffered a mild shoulder or collarbone sprain last week, and his availability remains uncertain for the matchup.
This season, Brown has completed 62.9 percent of his passes for 832 yards, five touchdowns, and just one interception. He has also added a rushing score. His presence is critical for an Iowa offense that ranks 111th nationally in EPA per rush and 101st in success rate.
Without Brown, the Hawkeyes' offense would face a significant downgrade, making his potential return a deciding factor in this game.
Can Iowa's Defense Carry the Day?
Iowa's defense has been the team's anchor all season, ranking seventh nationally in adjusted EPA per play. The Hawkeyes have been particularly stout against the run, though they rank 92nd in EPA per pass.
Washington, meanwhile, has struggled offensively, ranking 107th in EPA per pass and 124th in third and fourth down success rate. The Huskies have lost back-to-back games by one possession against Minnesota and USC, showing they can compete but have struggled to close out games.
This sets up what should be a low-scoring, grind-it-out Big Ten battle. Iowa's defensive prowess gives it a clear edge in a game where points may be at a premium.
Iowa vs. Washington Prediction
It's surprising to see Washington favored after back-to-back conference losses. The Huskies have covered the spread in just one of five games this season, while Iowa has shown resilience against tough competition.
Iowa's only loss came against Ohio State, the current national title favorite. The Hawkeyes also knocked off Michigan in Week 4 on a last-second play, proving they can win close games.
Washington's inability to handle Power 4 opponents in consecutive weeks is a red flag. Iowa's defense should keep this game within reach, and the Hawkeyes have the edge in close contests.
Pick: Iowa +2.5 (-105 at DraftKings)
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