Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Tennessee Volunteers NCAAF Citrus Bowl – The NCAAF Citrus Bowl presents an intriguing matchup as the Iowa Hawkeyes, with a 10-3 record, face the Tennessee Volunteers, standing at 8-4. This game, taking place on the first day of the new year at Camping World Stadium, is a highly anticipated event for fans looking for NCAAF bowl free picks. Both teams bring distinctive styles and strengths to the table, setting the stage for a memorable clash.
Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Tennessee Volunteers
Date & Time: Monday, January 1, 2024, at 1:00 PM ET
Location: Camping World Stadium
TV: ABC
Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Tennessee Volunteers NCAAF Citrus Bowl Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Iowa | +195 | +6 (-110) | 36 over (-105) |
| Tennessee | -225 | -6 (-110) | 36 under (-115) |
Iowa Hawkeyes Analysis
Offensively, the Iowa Hawkeyes have faced difficulties this season on offense led by quarterback Deacon Hill’s poor completion rate of 49.4% for 1096 yards with 5 touchdowns and 6 interceptions through his passes. Running back Leshon Williams has proven more effective on the ground with 804 rushing yards and one touchdown; however, an overall low yardage per attempt suggests a conservative approach that may struggle to produce high scores; wide receiver Nico Ragaini leads in receptions but has yet to find the end zone, further emphasizing their limitations in creating explosive plays.
Iowa has been more resilient on defense lately, contributing to their 4-1 SU record over their last five games and an 8-of-8 Under total since they have joined Division 1. In particular, their run defense has been effective while they will need to bolster pass defense to defend Tennessee’s balanced offense. Yet their overall performance as an underdog raises concerns regarding their ability to manage high-pressure games; something Iowa must overcome to win this Citrus Bowl matchup.
Tennessee Volunteers Analysis
Tennessee Volunteers’ offense has displayed a balanced showing so far this season. Quarterback Nico Iamaleava, with limited attempts, has displayed efficiency at a 61.5% completion rate while throwing for 163 yards and one touchdown. Tennessee’s offensive strategy has favored running back Jabari Small for 475 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns while wide receiver Squirrel White has made himself indispensable by collecting 764 receiving yards and two touchdowns; Tennessee has shown it can score points but to fully capitalise against Iowa’s formidable defense it must remain consistent with execution to take full advantage of Iowa’s solid defense.
Tennessee’s defense has been relatively strong but not without flaws. Their recent performance shows a tendency for totals to go OVER during games, suggesting occasional slipups in defensive play. When facing Iowa, Tennessee must focus on limiting run game and being prepared for potential surprises in Iowa’s conservative passing attack – this means pressuring Hill hard while keeping Iowa from finding rhythm offensively; their defensive linemen and linebackers will play key roles in keeping Iowa at bay, while Tennessee’s secondary will have to stay vigilant against any deep threats while maintaining coverage integrity throughout.
Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Tennessee Volunteers Against the Spread
Iowa has struggled to cover spreads recently, going 2-4 ATS in their last 6 contests. The under has hit frequently as well due to offensive difficulties. However, the Hawkeyes tend to play close games and could hang within this touchdown spread.
Tennessee has also not fared well against the number of late, posting a 2-4 ATS record in their previous 6 outings. But they have gone over the total in 4 of those games as their defense has sprung leaks. This could be a higher scoring affair.
Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Tennessee Volunteers Free Pick
Based on odds, trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Tennessee Volunteers (-225). Given their more balanced offense and solid overall play, Tennessee is the safer bet to win.
Spread: Tennessee Volunteers -6 (-110). Tennessee’s ability to put up more points gives them the edge to cover the spread against Iowa.
Total: Under 36 (-115). Despite Tennessee’s higher-scoring games, Iowa’s strong defense and low-scoring offense suggest a lower total.
Predicted Score: Tennessee Volunteers 22, Iowa Hawkeyes 12
The most reliable pick appears to be Tennessee covering the spread. Their offensive capability, combined with Iowa’s struggles to score, makes them likely to outpace the Hawkeyes by more than 6 points. For bettors looking for insights on top betting sites in Canada, this matchup offers an interesting dynamic with Tennessee’s offensive potential against Iowa’s defensive prowess.
