Michigan vs Iowa: Betting Preview and Lines for Big Ten Championship Title Fight
The #2 Michigan Wolverines (12-0, 6-5-1 ATS) will face the #17 Iowa Hawkeyes (10-2, 6-5-1 ATS) in the 2023 Big Ten Championship Game at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
Football player throwing in passing stance
Michigan enters as a 21.5-point favorite, with a notably low total of 35.0 points - the lowest among all conference championships by at least 9 points. The odds suggest a final score of approximately 28-7 in Michigan's favor.
Michigan's Recent Performance:
- Narrowly defeated Ohio State 30-24 despite being outgained (378-338 yards)
- Ranks 2nd nationally in yards allowed (246.8/game)
- Leads country in scoring defense (10.3 PPG)
- QB JJ McCarthy improved to 74.3% completion rate and 176.8 QBR
Iowa's Defensive Strength & Offensive Struggles:
- 4th in scoring defense (12.2 PPG)
- 7th in total defense (279.9 yards/game)
- Last in FBS offense (247.3 yards/game)
- QB Deacon Hill completing only 48.3% passes with 5 TDs, 6 INTs
- Strong running game led by Leshon Williams (779 yards) and Kaleb Johnson (415 yards)
Key Predictions:
- First half under 18.5 points (-106)
- Deacon Hill under 105.5 passing yards (-114)
- Iowa team total under 6.5 points likely
- Expect low-scoring first half, similar to Michigan's performances against Penn State and Ohio State (14 points each)
Michigan remains the national championship favorite at +182, while Iowa sits at +87500, with virtually no playoff chances even with a victory.
Historical Note: Iowa's games this season have consistently gone under, with a 2-10 over/under record, tied for best under percentage in FBS with UCLA and Tulane.