Coming off of the biggest day in Iowa history, the Hawkeyes are 10-0 for the first time ever and have a chance to clinch the Big Ten West Division with a win over Purdue this weekend.
Purdue vs. Iowa 2015: Start time, live stream, TV schedule and 3 things to know
Iowa can clinch the Big Ten West.
This team just keeps finding new ways to win, with a 10-6 triumph over Wisconsin in early October and last weekend’s impressive offensive performance against Minnesota, a 40-35 victory, coming in the same season. And with two regular season games left -- both against sub-.500 teams -- plus the Big Ten Championship Game, Iowa has legitimate College Football Playoff aspirations.
Purdue’s season isn’t going quite as well. The Boilermakers have had some close losses to good teams, including Michigan State and, last week, Northwestern. They also have a big win over Nebraska. However, Purdue has been far too inconsistent, with somewhat impressive performances against Nebraska and Northwestern book-ending a blowout loss to Illinois.
Can Purdue take advantage of any of Iowa’s weaknesses? The Hawkeyes have struggled to contain running quarterbacks at times and the secondary, which has been outstanding most of the season, didn’t play well against Minnesota. Can the Boilermakers do anything to stop Iowa’s improving offense? Purdue has to play its best game of the season to win this one.
How to watch, stream and listen
TV: Noon ET, ESPN2
Online streaming: WatchESPN
Spread: Iowa is favored by 21 points.
Make friends: Get to SB Nation’s team blog chats for this game at Black Heart Gold Pants for Iowa fans and Hammer And Rails for Purdue fans.
Three big things to know
1. Iowa can clinch the division with a win in either of its next two games or a Wisconsin loss. The Hawkeyes probably need to win out to make the Playoff. So even though a game against Purdue wouldn’t usually be a big deal, this one certainly is for the Hawkeyes.
2. Iowa quarterback C.J. Beathard was injured and out for just a play against Minnesota. He’s hurting, but he’ll play against Purdue. How hurt is he? That could determine the Boilermakers’ upset chances.
3. Iowa has had three different running backs rush for at least 195 yards in a game. Who will star in this one?
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