Iowa-Northwestern Statistical Analysis

A quick look at the stats would tell you that we may be in for a defensive struggle on Saturday. However, this early in the season stats can certainly be misleading. Also keep in mind the level of competition for both teams so far has been less than spectacular. Nevertheless, here is the breakdown: Category Northwestern NCAA Rank Iowa NCAA Rank Rushing Off. 160.1 59 190.5 33 Passing Off. 196.0 78 202.0 75 Total Off. 356.3 72 392.5 52 Scoring Off. 25.8 69 31.3 44 Rushing Def. 97.3 28 99.0 30 Pass Defense 200.75 56 156.5 18 Pass Eff. Def. 101.8 26 80.3 2 Total Defense 298.0 32 255.5 19 Scoring Defense 11.3 13 7.3 5 TO Margin -0.25 75 +1.0 18 All of a sudden the Wildcat's 4-0 record doesn't look so impressive does it? Especially when you take into account Northwestern hasn't really played anybody yet. NU's defense has looked impressive but against Syracuse, Duke, Southern Illinois, and Ohio. Not exactly offensive powerhouses. To be fair, half of the Hawkeye's impressive defensive numbers came against Maine and Florida International. The most surprising stat is the fact Iowa has actually average more yards passing per game despite our QB "rotation" and the Wildcats returning experienced signal caller CJ Bacher. One would assume Northwestern's sputtering pass offense is a major concern for 'Cat fans going into Saturday.