Outback Bowl, Florida vs Iowa: Preview and predictions

Dec 3, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Florida Gators defensive back Chauncey Gardner (23) reacts with his teammates during the third quarter of the SEC Championship college football game against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /

Take a look at our preview and prediction for Monday afternoon’s Outback Bowl between Florida and Iowa.

Iowa entered the 2016 season looking to repeat the success it had in 2016, going undefeated in the regular season. However, the Hawkeyes’ Rose Bowl loss at the end of last year seemed to be an indicator of what the campaign would be like. Although Iowa finished 8-4, it fell short of expectations.

C.J. Beathard wasn’t the All-Big Ten quarterback people were expecting him to be and the defense wasn’t as dominant as it was in 2015. However, the Hawkeyes have a chance to silence doubters in the Outback Bowl.

Florida was in the same boat, somewhat. The Gators went to the SEC title game last year and lost to Alabama, who eventually went on to win the national title, but they had enough talent to return to the conference championship.

Well, they did just that, but fell short yet again versus the Crimson Tide. Florida’s defense is loaded with potential NFL draft picks and it will give Iowa fits.

Here’s how you can watch Monday’s Outback Bowl online:

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Date: Monday, Jan. 2
Start Time: 1:00 p.m. ET
Location: Tampa, FL
Venue: Raymond James Stadium
TV: ABC
Live Stream: ABC Go

Keys to Victory

Iowa needs to continue its ground attack with Akrum Wadley and LeShun Daniels Jr. The two have been a dynamic duo all season long and they will need to be on top of their game because the Gators aren’t going to give up much through the air.

As for the Gators, some type of offense needs to be summoned. The Gators have been a defensive-minded team all season long and they need to start figuring out ways to score, especially against an Iowa team that has been known for stymying offenses.

Betting Odds

Point Spread: Florida -3
Over/Under: 40.5

Prediction

This is going to be one of those low-scoring affairs that ever bowl season has. Florida and Iowa are both defensive-minded squads and it will be one of the better games to watch if you’re looking for NFL prospects on that side of the ball.

In fact, there might be three total first-round talents in the defensive backfield in this one and that will lead to a quiet game, offensively. Florida sneaks out with a victory thanks to a little home-field advantage.

Final Score: Iowa 17, Florida 20

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