Ohio State vs. Iowa prediction: Buckeyes win, Iowa +14.5 is best bet
Ohio State will beat Iowa 27-17, with Julian Sayin and Jeremiah Smith attacking a secondary that allowed six passing gains of at least 20 yards against Michigan. Iowa’s defense, which has surrendered three touchdowns in four games, makes Iowa +14.5 (-114) an actionable spread bet. The best bet is the Hawkeyes plus the points; pass on the 45.5 total.
Ohio St. Buckeyes vs Iowa Hawkeyes prediction and best bet
Ohio State has the passing production to win this matchup, but Iowa’s defensive record makes laying more than two touchdowns a tougher proposition. Smith enters with 617 receiving yards and seven touchdowns through four games. Iowa has allowed just 32 points over the same span. The forecast gives the Buckeyes the advantage in creating scoring opportunities while respecting the Hawkeyes’ ability to limit the damage.
Take Iowa +14.5 (-114). That selection allows for an Ohio State victory without requiring Iowa to neutralize Smith completely. Brown’s turnover-free opening four games also matter: avoiding giveaways would help Iowa defend longer fields and keep the margin manageable. The projected result is Ohio State 27, Iowa 17.
Odds, game time and how to watch
Date and television: Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026, on CBS. Ohio State lists 3:30 p.m. ET; Iowa lists kickoff at 2:39 p.m. CT, nine minutes later.
Venue: Kinnick Stadium, Iowa City, Iowa.
Records: Ohio St. Buckeyes 2-1; Iowa Hawkeyes 3-0.
Quarterbacks: Ohio State’s Julian Sayin and Iowa’s Hank Brown.
SportsJaw odds: Ohio St. Buckeyes -14.5 (-110); Iowa Hawkeyes +14.5 (-110). Moneyline: Ohio St. Buckeyes -681; Iowa Hawkeyes +501. Total: Over 46.5 (-110); Under 46.5 (-110).