Can the Iowa Hawkeyes upset the #9 Oregon Ducks?

Yes, Iowa fans are surprisingly optimistic about their team's chances of not only covering the spread, but winning outright against Oregon. The Hawkeyes' defense and offense have both exceeded expectations this season, giving them a chance to pull off the upset at home.

How will the weather impact the Iowa vs. Oregon game?

The forecast for Saturday's game calls for wintry conditions, with temperatures in the 30s and a mix of rain, snow, and gusty winds. This could lead to a physical, low-scoring affair - a scenario that could benefit the Hawkeyes' strengths.

What are the playoff implications of the Iowa vs. Oregon game?

This matchup has massive implications for the College Football Playoff. A win for Iowa would propel them into the playoff discussion ahead of their upcoming game against the 19th-ranked USC Trojans, while a loss would likely relegate them to an 8-4 or 9-3 season.

Home / Sports / Hawkeyes Aim to Upset #9 Oregon Ducks in Playoff-Shaping Clash

Hawkeyes Aim to Upset #9 Oregon Ducks in Playoff-Shaping Clash

8 Nov

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Summary

Iowa's biggest home game in years against #9 Oregon
Potential massive implications for College Football Playoff
Hawkeyes defense and offense both playing better than expected

Hawkeyes Aim to Upset #9 Oregon Ducks in Playoff-Shaping Clash

On November 12, 2025, the Iowa Hawkeyes will host the 9th-ranked Oregon Ducks in what is undoubtedly their biggest home game of the season. This matchup comes just before the Hawkeyes travel to face the 19th-ranked USC Trojans, making it a potentially pivotal stretch for Iowa's playoff hopes.

Despite being 6.5-point underdogs according to oddsmakers, Iowa fans are surprisingly optimistic about their team's chances. A recent poll showed that 70% of Hawkeye supporters believe Iowa will not only cover the spread, but win outright against Oregon. This is a stark contrast to the start of the season, when over 90% of fans predicted the Hawkeyes would lose this game.

The main reasons for this newfound optimism are Iowa's improved defense and offense. The Hawkeyes' defense has emerged as a top-10 unit nationally, defying early-season doubts. Meanwhile, the offense has proven to be both competent and efficient, led by the impact of new coordinators Tim Lester and Mark Gronowski.