Low over/unders at Wrigley Field usually come about due to winds off Lake Michigan. The historic total of 29.5 points established for Saturday’s Big Ten matchup at Wrigley Field between Northwestern and Iowa on Saturday, however, is more a testament to stout defenses and sickly offenses.
The total, established at Circa Sports when it unveiled its Week 10 lines Sunday evening, is believed to be the first FBS game to have an over/under below 30 points dating back as far as 1995. The Hawkeyes are no stranger to lowering the bar for an opening total, as this is their fourth game in their last 12 going back to last season where they have been involved in a record-low opening total.
| Date | Game | Opening Over/Under | Final Score | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov. 4, 2023 | Iowa at Northwestern | 29.5 | ??? | ??? |
| Oct. 21, 2023 | Minnesota vs. Iowa | 30.5 | L 10-12 | Under |
| Dec. 31, 2022 | Iowa vs. Kansas | 31.5 | W 21-0 | Under |
| Nov. 19, 2022 | Iowa at Minnesota | 31.5 | W 13-10 | Under |
Sports wagering aside, the game has big implications in the West Division of the Big Ten, as the Hawkeyes (6-2, 3-2) are tied for fist with Minnesota. Northwestern (4-4, 2-3), which has opened +5.5 or +6 depending on the sportsbook, has played the season under the cloud of a hazing scandal uncovered in the summer but can further muddle the division race with a victory.
Stout defense often undone by subpar offense
College Football ??
Week 10 Opening Lines