As we review the Iowa Hawkeyes odds for 2008 we know that they were one of the worst offensive teams last year.  They have all the returning starts back on the offensive line.  The good news is that they don't have to face Ohio State or Michigan this season.

The Iowa offense has been terrible the past couple of years, and it all starts with quarterback Jake Christensen.  If you spent a good deal of time watching Jake Christensen in 2007 then you likely weren't too overwhelmed.  Christensen became Iowa's first QB ever to start two games against the same team.  In 2006 he came on in relief against North Illinois, and he opened up the 2007 season against them.  Last year was his first time as a starter and he struggled throughout the year.  He averaged 6.13 yards per attempt and that was the lowest in the Big 10 conference.  He was one of the lowest passers in the league last season 116.94.  The Big 10 odds at Sportsbook.com currently have Iowa 10/1 to win the Big 10 conference.

The good news for the offense is they have all of there starters back.  But is it even going to matter after they gave up 46 sacks last season, sixth highest in the nation.  Kirk Ferentz was an offensive line coach in the NFL, which means this year it will be one of his top priorities.  This offensive line unit should power the way to improve the Hawkeye offense.  Coach Ferentz got off to a tough start here in Iowa going 2-18 in his first 20.  He is now 59-31 since that rough start.  They are looking to turn things around this year, and try to get their first winning season in 3 years now.  The offense has too many question marks to compete in the Big 10, but maybe they could sneak into a bowl game.  The Big 10 odds at Sportsbook.com currently have Iowa 100/1 to win the to win the 2009 BCS national championship.

One of the Iowa big games this season is against there rival Iowa State on September 13th.  Even though the modern series is only 31 years old, the game is still one of the biggest events in Iowa year in and year out.  Iowa is looking to get there revenge in this game after they lost to their rivals last year 15-13  as a 17 point favorite.  ISU won that game despite scoring an offensive touchdown.  Their other big game will be on October 4th against Michigan State.  The home team in the series is 8-0 winning by an average of 16 points, and that is not good for Iowa as they have to play this game on the road. 

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