The Nebraska football team will play a game against the Iowa Hawkeyes where scoring is expected to be at an insane premium.
In a historically low day in college football history, the Nebraska Football game against the Hawkeyes has fittingly achieved a record breaking total for the over/under. A line that was originally set for 29.5, which even then was near the record, plunged after many bettors took what seemed to be the obvious pick. Fanduel currently has the point total of 25.5, with some sports books giving an even lower 24.5 total.
What led to this unprecedented line? And what is the likely outcome in this Big Ten West rivalry showdown?
Quarterback Play from Nebraska Football and Iowa
For Iowa, an anemic offense to begin with is now being led by Spencer Petras In 12 games, he has five touchdowns thrown, which averages to one passing score roughly every two games. Paired with an athlete who is not a natural scrambler or threat with his feet, defenses can successfully tee off on stopping the run, often putting their defense in bad situations.
For Nebraska football, through injuries and the most turnover-prone offense with a nation-leading 28 turnovers, consistent quarterback play has been impossible. And while Chubba Purdy appears to be a much-needed spark and is more careful with the football, the offense remains a huge question mark.
Defensive Strength of Nebraska Football and Iowa
Combined with poor offenses and top tier defenses it is no wonder that the under was hammered when it first came out. Given how much of a struggle scoring has been for both teams, if the total was set at ten, some would still expect a six to three final score.
The both teams average around 16 first downs a game against allowed. Meaning both teams are good at forcing three and outs, and forcing key stops.
Why Nebraska Football is primed to hit the over
After the initial onslaught of underbettors, the money has shifted to 66 percent of people taking the over.
Both defenses are going to be back on the field a lot after stalled drives. The longer we get into the game, discipline and gap assignment will inevitably have a slip up. Unpredictable turnovers are very predictable as well. Both offenses will get many chances in short field situations.
Even though both defenses are elite, a potential field goals attempted record will be threatened, the over makes the most sense.