Iowa vs. Michigan: 3 Stats That Could Decide Saturday's Big Ten Showdown
Iowa heads to Ann Arbor on Saturday for a battle of undefeated teams, and while the Hawkeyes enter as road underdogs, the numbers tell a more interesting story. Both squads are 3-0, but the matchup could come down to a few key statistical battles that fans might not be watching closely.
Here are three stats that could shape the outcome when the Hawkeyes face the Wolverines at the Big House.
Hank Brown Has Never Been Sacked
Iowa quarterback Hank Brown has been efficient and protected so far this season, but Saturday marks his first true road start. The veteran signal-caller, who spent two seasons at Auburn before transferring to Iowa, has yet to be sacked in a Hawkeyes uniform.
That streak will be tested against a Michigan defense that has recorded 10 sacks this season. The Wolverines generate pressure from multiple edge rushers, and even with Dom Nichols listed as questionable, Michigan has the depth to make Brown uncomfortable.
One area of concern for Iowa is right tackle Jack Dotzler. According to Pro Football Focus, Dotzler has given up four pressures this season, with three coming against Iowa State, the Hawkeyes' toughest opponent to date. If Michigan can exploit that matchup, Brown's clean pocket could disappear quickly.
Iowa Linebackers Have Been Vulnerable in Coverage
Iowa boasts the No. 1 ranked defense in the country and the No. 5 passing defense, but there may be a soft spot underneath. Pro Football Focus data shows that Iowa linebackers have allowed 15 of 19 targets thrown their way to be caught this season.
Star linebacker Cam Buffington has been targeted five times and has allowed all five to be completed. That could be a factor if Michigan finally gets its tight ends involved in the passing game, something the Wolverines have yet to do consistently this year.
Phil Parker's defense is known for being disciplined and difficult to attack, but this is a potential mismatch Michigan could exploit on Saturday.
Bryce Underwood's Numbers When Blitzed
Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood has improved each week, throwing for 170 yards against Western Michigan and 223 yards with two touchdowns against UTEP. The ground game has also found its footing.
Against Iowa, expect Parker to load the box and bring pressure to rattle the young quarterback. But the numbers suggest Underwood handles the blitz well. In three games, he is 12-for-20 for 141 yards and one touchdown when facing a blitz, according to Pro Football Focus.
The Michigan offensive line has struggled to open running lanes, but it has done a solid job keeping Underwood upright. If he can make plays under pressure on Saturday, the Wolverines will have a strong chance to remain undefeated.
The Hawkeyes will need to generate pressure and force turnovers to pull off the road upset. Kickoff is set for Saturday afternoon in Ann Arbor.