Two years ago, I posted this when OSU lost in Iowa City, 33-7.
That loss made the Buckeyes 3-3 after six games in 2004.
Since that loss, the Buckeyes are 19-3, and of course, currently ranked #1, and I say they stay there until somebody beats them.
I was not impressed by Iowa in the Syracuse game, where the Orange nearly beat them, but playing in Iowa City is much different. I don't know what it is about Kinnick Stadium, but the place seems to bring out the best in the Hawkeyes and the worst in their opponents. Also, there isn't a hotel room to be had within 100 miles of Iowa City.
One thing I did find out today...Iowa has played the number one team in the nation eight times in their history.
The Hawkeyes' record in those eight games? 0-7-1.
I think that the Buckeyes have to start fast and take a rabid crowd of 71,000 bumblebees out of the game...quickly. Because if they start out like they did against Penn State and Cincinnati, they will lose. Iowa's a much better team than the Lions or Bearcats.
Troy will have a good game, and the defense should hold up. Hopefully, Tressel invested in about a hundred sets of earplugs for the loud Hawkeyes crowd.
Buckeyes to prevail, 24-14, and stay at #1.
Mike