sIowa Hawkeyes (10-3) vs. Tennessee Volunteers (8-4)
Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Tennessee Volunteers – As the New Year dawns, the NCAAF Citrus Bowl is set to feature an intriguing clash between the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Tennessee Volunteers. On January 1, 2024, the Hawkeyes, boasting a solid 10-3 record, will take on the Volunteers, who have an 8-4 standing. This match at the Camping World Stadium, airing on ABC, promises to be a gripping encounter filled with strategic plays and raw talent. With both teams eager to make their mark, this game is a prime focus for those seeking the NCAAF bowl latest picks.
Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Tennessee Volunteers Game Info
| When: | Monday, January 1, 2024, at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Camping World Stadium |
| TV: | ABC |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Deacon Hill QB vs. Nico Iamaleava QB
Iowa quarterback Deacon Hill endured his share of freshman growing pains in 2022. Completing just 49.4% of his passes, Hill tallied 1,096 passing yards with 5 touchdowns and 6 picks over nine appearances. While raw as a passer, the young signal caller limited mistakes and kept Iowa competitive thanks to a run-heavy offensive game plan. Hill displays poise in the pocket but his accuracy and decision making must improve against a dangerous Tennessee defense.
Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava made the most of his limited opportunities as a true freshman behind veteran Hendon Hooker. Appearing in three contests, Iamaleava connected on 61.5% of his throws for 163 yards with 1 score and no interceptions. The five-star recruit is still green but shows impressive arm strength and athleticism. Getting the surprise start in place of the injured Hooker, Iamaleava faces a tough test to kickstart his career against Iowa’s stifling pass defense.
Hawkeyes’ Supporting Cast: Williams and Ragaini
Leshon Williams has been an impressive performer for Iowa as their running back, amassing 164 attempts for 804 yards at an average 4.9 average yards per carry rate and leading Iowa’s ground game with his ability to find gaps and extend plays against Tennessee’s defensive front line. Nico Ragaini has made an impressive contribution this season with 29 receptions for 252 receiving yards averaging 8.7 yards per catch. While he may have failed to find the end zone this time around, his ability to create space and secure catches makes him an invaluable option for Hill.
Volunteers’ Key Contributors: Small and White
Jabari Small has been an instrumental member of Tennessee’s offense, rushing for 475 yards off 95 attempts at an average 5 yards per carry rate. His agility and breakaway speed, evidenced in a 40-yard long rush attempt, will prove valuable when challenging Iowa’s defense. Squirrel White, Tennessee’s dynamic wide receiver, has proven his worth with 64 receptions for 764 yards at an average catch yardage rate of 11.9 and two receiving touchdowns proving that routine plays can yield huge gains.
NCAAF Betting Odds: Tennessee Volunteers -225, Over/Under: 36
The odds favor Tennessee, reflecting their offensive edge and overall season performance. The low over/under suggests a defensively dominated game, which aligns with both teams’ trends this season.
Iowa Hawkeyes Betting Trends
Iowa are 2-4 ATS in their last 6 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Iowa’s last 8 games.
Iowa are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Iowa’s last 7 games against an opponent in the Southeastern conference.
Iowa are 1-5 SU in their last 6 games played in January.
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Iowa’s last 6 games when playing as the underdog.
Tennessee Volunteers Betting Trends
Tennessee are 2-4 ATS in their last 6 games.
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Tennessee’s last 6 games.
Tennessee are 10-4 SU in their last 14 games.
Volunteer are 5-1 SU in their last 6 games against an opponent in the Big Ten conference.
Tennessee are 5-1 SU in their last 6 games played in January.
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Tennessee’s last 5 games played on a Monday.
Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Tennessee Volunteers Betting Picks
This Citrus Bowl matchup is a contrast in styles, with Iowa’s defensive solidity going up against Tennessee’s more dynamic offense. While the betting odds lean towards Tennessee, Iowa’s underdog status and their strong defensive record make them a compelling choice on online sportsbook platforms.
Tennessee’s ability to score and Iowa’s penchant for keeping games low-scoring create an interesting dynamic for bettors. Considering these factors, the smart choice might be to bet on the total points, with a lean towards the UNDER given Iowa’s defensive prowess.
Receiving Yards Prop: Tennessee 20, Iowa 13.
