Iowa Hawkeyes vs Northwestern Wildcats Betting Picks & Predictions
Northwestern will beat Iowa 23-20 in our forecast, with Aidan Chiles’ production as a passer and runner giving the Wildcats a slight edge. Iowa’s third shutout of the season offers a strong counterargument, however. Neither Northwestern -2.5 (-115) nor the 42.5 total at -110 offers a convincing betting advantage. The official SportsJaw recommendation is Pass, with low confidence in the game forecast.
Iowa Hawkeyes vs Northwestern Wildcats prediction and best bet
Northwestern gets the pick because Chiles presents two ways to challenge an Iowa defense coming off a dominant afternoon. Against Oregon on Oct. 31, he passed for 281 yards and rushed for 93, scoring a touchdown each way. That combination is the strongest reason to give the Wildcats a narrow advantage in this matchup.
Iowa’s response is substantial: a 30-0 victory over Wisconsin, its third shutout of 2026, accompanied by efficient quarterback play. The Hawkeyes have a credible route to an outright win. Northwestern is the forecast selection, but neither side offers enough separation from the supplied spread to merit a wager. The best bet is Pass.
Odds, game time and how to watch
Date and time: Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. Central, 7:30 p.m. Eastern.
Location and broadcast: Evanston, Illinois; FOX.
Records: Iowa Hawkeyes 5-2; Northwestern Wildcats 6-2.
SportsJaw odds: Iowa Hawkeyes +2.5 (-105); Northwestern Wildcats -2.5 (-115). Moneyline: Iowa Hawkeyes -400; Northwestern Wildcats -809. Total: Over 42.5 (-110); Under 42.5 (-110).
SportsJaw total: Over 42.5 (-110); Under 42.5 (-110).