Penn State Nittany Lions Look to Secure Victory as Struggling Iowa Hawkeyes Face Tough Defense

Game outlook

This content discusses an upcoming Big Ten game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Penn State Nittany Lions. Both teams currently have a 5-6 record in Big Ten play, and this game will determine which team reaches a .500 record. The Iowa Hawkeyes, with a 13-9 overall record, are hoping for a victory to improve their standing. On the other hand, the Penn State Nittany Lions, with an 11-11 overall record, will rely on their home crowd support at the Bryce Jordan Center. The game is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. EDT, and the betting odds initially favor the Iowa Hawkeyes by -1.5, with the current line at Iowa -1.

Betting Odds

Moneyline: Hawkeyes -115 | Nittany Lions -104

Spread: Hawkeyes -1 (-110) | Nittany Lions +1 (-110)

Total: Over/Under 162 (-110)

Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Iowa will win straight-up is 53%.

Iowa Hawkeyes

In a recent home game against Ohio State, the Iowa Hawkeyes secured a narrow 79-77 victory. Tony Perkins was the standout player for Iowa, leading the team with 20 points, seven rebounds, and four assists. Known for their fast pace and explosive offense, the Hawkeyes average 84.2 points per game on 47.6% shooting, with a solid 34.3% three-point percentage and 77.3% free throw percentage. They also limit turnovers to 9.8 per game. However, the team struggles defensively, particularly on the road, where opponents shoot 49.4% from the floor and are awarded an average of 23.9 free throw attempts. Additionally, Iowa struggles with rebounding, holding a -0.9 margin regardless of the venue. While they typically excel in turnover battles, their road defense leaves room for improvement. In terms of rankings, Iowa is third in offense with an average of 84.18 points per game, while their defense ranks 310th, allowing an average of 77.23 points against them per game. The team's offensive percentages are impressive, particularly their field goal shooting at 47.68% and free throw shooting at 77.33%, ranking 46th and 23rd respectively. Their three-point shooting stands at a decent 34.34%, earning them the 163rd rank in the NCAAB. Iowa also secures an average of 36.50 rebounds, ranking 146th, and demonstrates strong offensive assists with an average of 18.32 per game, 8th in the nation. Defensively, Iowa allows opposing teams to shoot 44.69% from the field, ranking 253rd, and 70.64% from the free-throw line, ranking 146th. They struggle to defend the three-point line, allowing 33.60% shooting, placing them at 205th. However, the team performs well in defensive rebounds, averaging 37.45 per game, ranking 37th. Defensive assists averaged at 14.41, ranking 305th, and turnovers at 12.91 per game, ranking 123rd. Overall, Iowa's offense is their strength, but their defense needs improvement, particularly when playing away games. Friendly reminder: We’re back hoopin’ tomorrow night #Hawkeyes pic.twitter.com/yKuKs15z01