Stanford passing offense vs. Iowa passing defense- Often, a Heisman-caliber, all-everything running back like Christian McCaffery benefits from a passing game that’s enough of a threat to keep the defense honest. Stanford is certainly no exception. Iowa’s pass defense gives up a few yards, but that’s often a common characteristic of a team that has almost always been in the lead late in games. Iowa has forced 18 interceptions vs. allowing just 14 touchdowns. The passing game largely relies on McCaffery as well, who is the Stanford’s leading receiver. He comes out of the backfield but also will sometimes set up out wide and be a primary target for Kevin Hogan. Hogan is in the top 5 in the nation in passing efficiency, while Iowa’s top CB Desmond King leads Power 5 teams in interceptions. Stanford is very much like Iowa in that they spread the ball around to backs and tight ends almost as much as they throw to wide receivers. Stanford’s top threat on the outside is Michael Rector, who averages 15 yards a catch and often lines up as the single wide-out in many of Stanford’s old-school formations. Iowa is very sure tackling in the secondary and seldom gives up big plays in the passing game. Iowa’s linebackers are also athletic and physical enough to deal with Austin Hooper, their primary tight end target.
Advantage: Push
More Detailed Matchups- https://www.fangurus.com/rose-bowl-preview-and-match-ups/
Advantage: Push
More Detailed Matchups- https://www.fangurus.com/rose-bowl-preview-and-match-ups/
