Iowa Hawkeyes vs Missouri Tigers – Music City Bowl Preview – Dec 30, 2024
The Iowa Hawkeyes and Missouri Tigers meet in the Music City Bowl on Saturday afternoon at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee. Iowa, representing the Big Ten, comes in with an 8-4 record and hopes to finish strong despite roster changes due to the transfer portal and NFL draft. Missouri, ranked No. 19 and sporting a 9-3 record, looks to cap a successful SEC season with a postseason win.
These two programs last met in the 2010 Insight Bowl, where Iowa claimed a 27-24 victory. Both teams are known for their strong defenses, and this matchup could be a low-scoring affair, with the total set at just 40.5 points. Missouri enters as a slight 2.5-point favorite, but both teams have the tools to pull off a win.
Iowa Preview – Hawkeyes Adjust to Roster Shifts
Iowa’s offense will be led by quarterback Brendan Sullivan, who returns from injury after missing several weeks. Sullivan has thrown for 344 yards and two touchdowns this season but has limited experience. Backup Jackson Stratton stepped in admirably during Sullivan’s absence, leading the Hawkeyes to key wins over Maryland and Nebraska.
The running game will rely on Kamari Moulton and Jaziun Patterson, as star running back Kaleb Johnson declared for the NFL draft. Moulton has rushed for 377 yards and two touchdowns, while Patterson added 235 yards. Iowa’s offense has struggled in the air, ranking near the bottom nationally in passing yards, but the ground game remains a strength.
Defensively, Iowa is known for its disciplined approach under long-time coordinator Phil Parker. The Hawkeyes allow just 20.1 points per game and have a knack for limiting big plays. This defensive identity has helped Iowa maintain consistency over the years, earning a bowl game invitation in 22 of the past 24 seasons.
Missouri Preview – Tigers Look to Overcome Key Absences
Missouri quarterback Brady Cook is healthier after dealing with ankle and hand injuries this season. Cook has thrown for 2,248 yards, nine touchdowns, and just two interceptions while adding five rushing scores. With standout receiver Luther Burden III opting out to prepare for the NFL draft, Cook will rely heavily on Theo Wease Jr., who has 55 receptions for 809 yards and three touchdowns.
The Tigers’ rushing attack features Nate Noel, Marcus Carroll, and Jamal Roberts. Noel leads the group with 804 rushing yards and three touchdowns, while Carroll has been a red zone threat with 12 scores. Missouri’s offense will need to step up against Iowa’s disciplined defense.
Defensively, Missouri has been solid, allowing 20.1 points per game. The Tigers’ ability to stop the run, ranking 40th nationally in rushing defense, will be crucial against Iowa’s ground-heavy attack. Coach Eli Drinkwitz praised Iowa’s consistency and expects a physical contest.
Betting Prediction
This game is expected to be a defensive battle, with Missouri favored by 2.5 points and a low total of 40.5. Both teams have key absences on offense, which could make scoring opportunities scarce. Iowa’s defense has been reliable all season, but Missouri’s slightly more dynamic offense gives them an edge.
Look for Missouri to narrowly cover the spread in a game likely to hit the under. The Tigers’ balance on offense and strong run defense should be enough to secure a hard-fought victory.
Pick: Missouri -2.5, Under 40.5
